Aging [verb]: the process of growing older. While that definition does apply, in the metals industry “aging” is specific jargon referring to treatments which speed up that process. But why would you choose to age your new metal products? It helps if you remember not to view aging as a negative. In fact, much like wine, the properties of a metal alloy often improve with age.
As metal ages, its base material physically transforms. The interaction of the metal’s atoms with the oxygen in its environment – whether surrounded by air or water – will begin change its surface texture and color. This starts with a basic oxide layer being formed. The oxide then becomes a hydroxide, and the hydroxide layer continues to interact with the atmosphere.
So why is this exposure to the elements considered a desirable result, unlike rust? That’s because iron oxide, or rust, is much more fragile and ultimately destructive when compared to a hydroxide. Exposed iron develops rust which flakes off and forms again, and will continue this cycle until it deteriorates the metal below. Meanwhile, a hydroxide layer actually creates a more stable surface composition. This hydroxide effectively creates an outer shell, which shields the metal below from any further interaction to its environment. The aging process of the metal comes to a near halt, with the hydroxide layer giving it both greater strength and longevity.
In general, there are two types of metal aging:
Natural aging: just as the name suggests, this is letting the metal age with time, in its natural environment. The strengthening benefits of aging will be more gradual but still effective.
Artificial aging: this refers to any method used to artificially accelerate the aging process. This is usually done through heat treatment of the metal alloys.
Both types do carry a risk of over-aging. This happens when the aging process pushes the metal past the point of strengthening into stressing and deteriorating it. As you might expect, this is more likely to occur with artificial aging: either because the metal has already undergone the aging process, or the heat applied is too intense or prolonged. However, when properly carried out, metal aging is a great benefit to the finished product.
Like any other field of expertise, the steel industry has
its own jargon – one that may be confusing upon first encounter. Why are they
assigned four-digit codes? What’s the difference between Alloy 4130 and 4140?
Steel is sorted into four main categories as set by the AISI
(American Iron and Steel Institute):
Carbon steel
Alloy steel
Stainless steel
Tool steel
Being steel, these contain the same two basic elements of
iron and carbon. Determining their category depends on the percentage of carbon
and other alloys added to the iron, which changes the properties of the
finished metal.
Within each category, steel can then be classified according
to type. This usually includes several of the descriptive factors below:
Composition: the main categories of carbon,
alloy, stainless, and tool steel.
Microstructure: these are the subcategories of
composition. For instance, stainless steel can be classed as ferritic,
austenitic, martensitic, and duplex steels.
Method of production: two methods account for
almost all modern steel production, known as EAF (electric air furnace), and
BOS (basic oxygen steelmaking).
Form/Shape: also known as primary forming, creating
shapes such as plate or bars.
Method of finish: this is referred to as
secondary forming, the techniques which give the final product its properties
and finish. This can include processes such as hot and cold rolling, tempering,
or galvanizing.
Physical strength: using ASTM (American Society
for Testing and Materials) standards, the designation typically includes a
letter prefix and assigned number.
There are two primary numbering systems used to classify
metals, so steel descriptions typically will include both. Along with AISI, the
numbering system set by SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) is most used in
the metals industry. For the most part, SAE has adapted their system to align
with the classifications set by AISI, so that specifications are standardized for
steel.
So with this information, consumers have the ability to
recognize the category and classification of a steel item. In the four digit
code system, the first number will determine the type:
Starting with 1: Carbon steel
2: Nickel steel
3: Nickel-chromium steel
4: Molybdenum steel
5: Chromium steel
6: Chromium-vanadium steel
7: Tungsten-chromium steel
8: Nickel-chromium-molybdenum steel
9: Silicon-manganese steel and other SAE grades
The following numbers then give additional detail to the specific
type of steel. In most cases, the second digit indicates the percentage of
alloying element. The last two digits are the percentage of carbon
concentration within the steel.
So using the example of 4130 vs 4140 steel: both start with
a 4, so they are molybdenum steels – with the concentration of molybdenum being
1%. The difference between the two is that 4130 has a carbon percentage of
roughly 0.30%, while 4140 contains 0.40 percent carbon. Because of its lower
carbon percentage, 4130 would be more easily machined and weldable than 4140.
However, the higher degree of carbon in 4140 alloy gives it greater hardness
and strength than 4130. Armed with this knowledge, this may better help you
choose the right type of steel for your needs.
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 19, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co. (NYSE: RS) today announced the launch of its new e-commerce business, FastMetals, Inc. (www.fastmetals.com), which offers a catalogue pricing model for a diverse selection of metal products including carbon, stainless, aluminum and specialty alloy steels. Located in Massillon, Ohio, FastMetals ships nationwide and has direct access to Reliance’s vast network of metals service center locations which carry over 100,000 products.
“FastMetals was created in response to the growing demand for digital purchasing solutions from metalworkers of all backgrounds,” commented Jim Hoffman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Reliance. “Consistent with Reliance’s core business strategy, FastMetals specializes in small orders with quick-turn around and best-in-class customer service. We are excited to launch this new, innovative venture that differs from our traditional sales model as simply another option for customers to purchase metal from us. Many of our existing service centers presently offer online capabilities and continue to receive inquiries via phone, email or other means based on the individual customer’s preference. FastMetals is yet another channel to experience Reliance’s unique, customer-focused service.”
FastMetals’ model is tailored to smaller, specialized end-users including artists, fabricators, machine shops, hobbyists, and do-it-yourself practitioners. Customers can choose from standard shapes and sizes or select specific dimensions to satisfy unique project requirements. FastMetals provides instant pricing, same-day shipping, no minimum order quantity and direct fulfillment to the individual customer.
About Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co. Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co. (NYSE:RS), headquartered in Los Angeles, California, is the largest metals service center company in North America. Through a network of more than 300 locations in 40 states and thirteen countries outside of the United States, Reliance provides value-added metals processing services and distributes a full line of over 100,000 metal products to more than 125,000 customers in a broad range of industries. Reliance focuses on small orders with quick turnaround and increasing levels of value-added processing. In 2018, Reliance’s average order size was $2,130, approximately 49% of orders included value-added processing and approximately 40% of orders were delivered within 24 hours. Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co.’s press releases and additional information are available on the Company’s website at www.rsac.com.
Corrosion is the deterioration of a metal due to an electrochemical
reaction between the atoms on the metal’s surface and its surrounding environment.
Most commonly, corrosion refers to oxidation: the process where a metal reacts
to the oxygen in air or water. The most familiar example of corrosion is iron
oxide (rust), but other metals can corrode in similar ways. Given sufficient
time and exposure, corrosion will have a significant negative impact on the
metal’s appearance, strength, and durability. If left unchecked, corrosion will
eventually lead to the weakening or total disintegration of the metal parts.
The World Corrosion Organization (WCO) estimates the annual cost of corrosion
to be up to $2.5 trillion dollars – and that up to 25% of that damage is
entirely preventable.
General Attack Corrosion, also known as Uniform Attack Corrosion, is characterized as the reaction occurring over the exposed surface area of a metal object or structure. This is the most common type of corrosion, leading to the greatest overall destruction of metal by tonnage. However, from a technical standpoint, it is also considered to be the ‘safest’ form of corrosion to encounter. The damage which occurs with general attack corrosion, being fairly uniform and predictable in its progress, means it is the easiest to diagnose and prevent.
How to Prevent Uniform Metal Corrosion
1. Selecting the Right Metal: The four basic types of metals
referred to as “corrosion-proof”
Stainless Steel: This alloy contains iron, which easily oxidizes to form rust, and chromium, an element even more reactive to corrosion than iron itself. However, when chromium is added to steel, the corrosion which results then forms a protective layer on the surface of the metal. In contrast, corrosion which occurs on uncoated carbon steel will repeat continuously as the rust forms, wears off, and forms again. Eventually the rusting will lead to the metal’s disintegration. Iron oxide layer on stainless steel will resist further corrosion. This means the layer actually prevents oxygen from reaching the steel underneath. Corrosion-resistant in stainless steel can be further boosted by the addition of other elements in the alloy such as nickel and molybdenum.
Aluminum:
Since aluminum alloys contain almost no iron, they are free from rust. The
corrosion with this metal is similar to chromium in stainless steel; after the
initial corrosion occurs, it creates a surface layer that protects the metal
from any further damage. This film of aluminum oxide can be unsightly with dark
marks or streaking, but as long as it remains, it will shield the underlying metal.
Brass, Bronze, and Copper: Like aluminum alloy, these metals
contain little to no iron. They do react with oxygen – most noticeably with
copper, which oxidizes to a distinctive green patina. The oxidized layer helps
protect the copper from further corrosion. The other two metals combine copper
with other metals, which makes them naturally corrosion-proof: copper and zinc
to produce brass, and copper and tin for bronze.
Galvanized Steel: This is carbon steel that is galvanized, or coated, with a thin layer of zinc. Like chromium and copper, zinc is highly reactive to oxygen and will quickly begin to oxidize. This layer of zinc oxide prevents any further corrosion on the galvanized coating. Even more importantly, it acts as a barrier preventing oxygen from reaching the steel. Eventually, the zinc will wear off which will make the carbon steel vulnerable to rust, so this type of metal is not entirely corrosion-proof. However, it will take much longer to rust than untreated carbon steel.
2. Protective Coatings
In addition to galvanized steel, other coatings can be applied as a barrier between the environment and the metal. Painting is one of the most cost-effective ways of preventing corrosion. Powder-coating is another popular option. This involves applying a dry powder to the metal and then heating it to fuse it in an even, smooth film. Both methods work by creating a uniform physical barrier between oxygen and the metal.
3. Monitoring the Environment
Simply put, corrosion is the reaction of the metal with its
surrounding environment. So whether the environmental factor is air, water, stresses
placed upon the metal itself, or all of the above, regular maintenance and monitoring
goes a long way towards preventing or lessening the impact of corrosion.
Crevice corrosion, for example, is commonly found in areas where metals overlap
each other. This means the metal parts are exposed to varying oxygen
concentrations, leading to uneven wear and deterioration. Proper maintenance
such as eliminating crevices when found, or ensuring complete drainage in
vessels, can help to prevent this corrosion. In harsher environments, replacing
parts and fastenings with higher
alloys can help preserve the metal’s functionality.
All metals will corrode eventually, but the process does not necessarily need to be a destructive one. By anticipating how and where an item will be used, the choice of metal and its maintenance can prevent corrosion from becoming a serious problem. Corrosion prevention not only helps save equipment and money, but it will also help keep metals safer for the people who use them.
Property and home improvement shows are more popular than ever – and according to those experts, a kitchen remodel is one of the most effective ways to maximize your budget for home renovation. Stainless steel’s durability and stylishness make it a great construction material and design element in a kitchen. Whether used to equip a sleek industrial space, adding modern touches to classic or mid-century design, or used for cookware and utensils, consider the benefits of using stainless steel to update your surroundings.
5 Reasons to Use Stainless in Your Kitchen
Durability: Stainless steel is the standard in the restaurant industry for good reason; it’s strong, rust-free, and resists heat damage! Grade 304, the most commonly available type of stainless steel, will hold up to the daily wear of food preparation and cleaning because it is a non-reactive metal. This makes it incredibly versatile for everything from appliances and cutlery to pots and pans. Metals like copper or aluminum will react to acidic ingredients such as vinegar, discoloring its shiny finish and adding unpleasant flavors to your food. Countertops made of stainless steel can hold up to heat, liquids, and cleansers without negative effects – the same treatment which can crack or stain granite surface
Low Maintenance: The addition of chromium to produce stainless steel makes it very resistant to oxidation, which can rust and wear down other materials. Whether it’s exposed to water in a kitchen sink, high temperatures in a barbeque grill, or the cold of a freezer, stainless steel requires little maintenance to keep it looking its best. Stainless steel cabinets will not warp, making them ideal for high humidity or outdoor cooking areas.
Style and Versatility: Despite what you may think, stainless steel is not simply for those who like minimalist or industrial design! It coordinates well with any color or décor and makes for easy matching between your appliances, fixtures, and pots and pans. Cabinets or countertops with a high shine finish can help brighten a dim kitchen area. Appliances made of brushed-finish stainless steel give an elegant glow. Blended with natural materials such as wood and stone, stainless steel helps to give a timeless yet modern look to your kitchen.
Hygiene: Stainless steel is a non-porous material. This means its surface doesn’t allow air or liquid to pass through, which prevents the growth of bacteria within the steel. So kitchen surfaces and implements can be easily and thoroughly cleaned. Stainless steel makes an ideal choice for kitchen sinks and backsplashes since it can hold up remarkably well to regular use, water, and household cleansers.
Eco-Friendly Material: Nontoxic, long-lasting, and recyclable: stainless steel makes an environmentally-friendly choice of material for your kitchen and home. When treated with care, the durability of stainless steel means your appliances, décor, and cookware will last for many years, preventing excess waste and landfills. The easy cleanup for stainless steel – just soap and water – helps to cut down on the use of chemicals. As consumer demand increases for sustainable choices, consider the advantages of building and outfitting your kitchen with stainless steel. Its long life makes it a good choice for your finances, and for the good of our communities.
Aluminum Tread Plate can be utilized for your anti-slip surfaces
What is Tread Plate?
Rolled aluminum tread plate is made of an alloy, where elements
such as copper or silicon are added to aluminum to increase its strength and
corrosion resistance. The two of the most common grades of aluminum alloy
include:
Alloy
3003: The most widely used of all aluminum alloys. Manganese gives the
alloy up to 20% more strength over pure aluminum, while still allowing for good
workability. While not as strong as 6061, aluminum 3003 tread plate’s shiny reflective
finish makes it both functional and decorative.
Alloy
6061: 6000-series aluminum is mixed with magnesium and silicon, giving the
metal a high degree of strength. This, along with its corrosion resistance and
weldability, is why 6061 is often referred to as structural aluminum. Aluminum
6006 tread plate comes in a mill finish, which means its surface is untreated
with little to no shine.
Uses of Aluminum Tread Plate
Tread plate, Diamond plate, Checker plate. No matter what the name, it all refers to the same product: metal sheet or plate with a regular pattern of raised diamond marks. When looking to keep workers safe on the job, aluminum tread plate is a durable, high-quality option to help reduce slips and falls. So why choose aluminum tread plate over other materials? It has numerous benefits including:
Slip resistance: The raised pattern provides traction even under tough weather conditions that can find surfaces covered in water or mud. For this reason, tread plate is typically used on stairs, ramps, loading docks and other industrial areas.
Corrosion resistance: Unlike iron oxidization, aluminum oxidization stops at the surface. Iron rust can be easily worn or flaked off, exposing fresh metal which rusts and leads to further deterioration. Aluminum oxidation, on the other hand, will not progress beyond the outside layer unless the oxide is removed. This makes well-suited to wear and tear, including exposure to corrosive elements like seawater.
Hygiene: Tread plate is easy to wash down, and the corrosion resistance of aluminum alloy means it can hold up to regular use of strong cleaning agents. This makes it ideal for areas needing regular heavy-duty sanitation, such as food processing plants, kitchens and walk-in freezers, and ambulances.
Protection: The design of tread plate gives impact and surface protection, coupled with the strength of solid metal. When used for corner guards and door plates, aluminum tread plate will help prevent unsightly marks or damage in high-traffic areas.
Decorative: Aluminum tread plate is often used for its decorative quality. Vehicle trim, shop walls, and furniture can be made of tread plate, most often in a bright polished finish. The high shine combines both form and function, with the shiny surface also helping with ease of cleaning.
FastMetals is your one stop spot to get tread plate. Starting at .063 thickeness up to .375, FastMetals.com has you covered. In size selection as small as 1 foot by 1 foot, all the way to 4 feet by 8 feet. Need something really specific? No problem – just submit a fast quote for a custom cut.
What type of rolled steel would make the better choice for your project? It’s important to understand the fundamental differences between hot and cold rolled steel in order to select the best one for your needs.
Rolling is
a metalworking process where the metal is passed through one or more pairs of
rolls, which reduces thickness and makes the material uniform throughout the
roll. Imagine the steel as if rolling dough through a pasta-maker, flattening
and thinning it out until you have an even, smooth product. The two types of rolling are hot and cold,
which is determined by the metal’s temperature during processing. Hot rolling
occurs when the metal is heated above its recrystallization temperature. Cold
rolling is when the metal is processed while below the recrystallization point.
Hot Rolled Steel
Hot rolling
involves rolling the steel at a temperature point above its recrystallization
temperature, typically around or above 1700 degrees F. This means the steel can
be shaped and formed easily, including producing much larger sizes. Since the
manufacturing can be done without pauses or delays in the process, this means
hot rolled steel is typically cheaper than cold rolled steel.
Because of the
high processing temperature, the hot rolled steel will have a rougher, scaly
finish and will also shrink slightly as it cools. This means the finished
product can vary in its size and shape dimensions, and at a lower price point
than the same item produced through cold rolling. Hot rolled steel is best
suited for uses like welding, railroad tracks or construction, where precise
shapes and tolerances may not be required.
Cold Rolled Steel
Cold rolled steel
is manufactured below its recrystallization temperature. Essentially, it’s hot
rolled steel with additional processing in cold reduction mills. Because it is
typically produced around room temperature, the process allows for closer
dimensional tolerances and a wider range of surface finishes for the steel.
‘Cold rolled’ is
often mistakenly used to describe all steel products, but it refers
specifically to the rolling of flat rolled sheet and coil products. For other
steel shapes produced below the recrystallization temperature, the accurate
terminology is “cold finishing”. For instance, a cold finished steel bar is
produced by cold drawing (pulling) the metal, then turning, grinding and polishing.
This produces a much more precise end product with four advantages:
Increased yield and tensile strength
Fewer surface imperfections due to the turning
process
Grinding gives closer size accuracy and precise
shapes
Polishing improves the surface finish
The exception is
cold rolled sheet versus hot rolled sheet. For this particular product, the
cold rolled steel has a low carbon
content and is typically annealed (heat treatment to
increase ductility). This means cold rolled sheet will be softer than hot
rolled sheet.
Overall, cold
rolled and cold finished steel is superior to hot rolled steel in finish,
straightness and tolerance, and comes at a higher price point. It would be the
recommended choice when visual appeal is a priority for your project. Typical
uses include building materials for sheds and garages, metal furniture, and
home appliances.
Buy Hot Rolled or Cold
Rolled Steel
Here at FastMetals
we offer a range of Hot
Rolled and Cold Rolled
steel products – we offer great quality product, reasonable pricing and fast shipping
– shop online at FastMetals.com or call us
toll free at (833) 327-8685.
