Fundamental Insights Into Structural Steel Worth Knowing

By Author: Ashton Coaldrake
Total Articles: 302
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Whether you know it or not, but structural steel is becoming increasingly popular these days, owing to the surging requirements of pre-fabricated building frames. The construction industry is extensively benefitted from its use.
 
Moreover, structural steel can be given a wide variety of shapes and can be cut into different sizes based upon individual requirements. The different types of structural steel are meant to cater to varying requirements related to use and ease of fabrication. Despite an abundance of products available, engineers are increasingly resorting to structural steel; and the reason is obvious.
 
Get An Idea about Structural Steel, at First
Structural steel is a multi-functional construction component, which can further be given different shapes and sizes. Furthermore, such shapes are designed specifically to meet cross-sectional profile needs. They can be given shapes of elongated beams that are meant for better durability.
 
Did you know that structural steel in Whyalla is given a particular shape based upon the project ...
... specifications. These projects mostly encompass those related to building/road/bridge constructions. The methods with which structural steel is used, include hot and cold rolling, complex welding and bending.
 
Different Types of Structural Steel and Their Different Grades
There is a wide variety of structural steel available in the market. Each has its specific set of applications. Builders using structural steel will choose the product based on the type of project. It is the work requirement, that helps decide the kind of structural steel to use.
 
Wondering how structural is classified? Structural steel is identified by their individual shapes based upon their cross-sectional appearance. These shapes include I, T and C. Furthermore, mechanical properties of structural steel also indicate the grade of steel.
 
Picking structural steel in Whyalla involves choosing from a wide range of criteria. Commonly used structural steel include:
 
Carbon Steel
This kind of steel contains carbon as a chief alloying component which is further blended with other types of elements mixed in smaller and greater amounts. Carbon steel is among the most used structural steel, responsible for 90% of the overall produce. Furthermore, carbon steel encompasses the use of carbon and iron.
 
Based on the percentage of carbon usage, carbon steel is categorised as low carbon steel, medium carbon steel, high carbon steel and ultra-high carbon steel.
 
Wondering where is carbon steel used? Such structural steel is used in tubing and manufacturing of structural pipes. Known for its versatility, carbon steel also boasts of multiple applications. On the other hand, carbon steel is prone to corrosion and hence it is vital to keep it protected from corrosive elements.
 
High Strength Low Alloy Steel
An abbreviated form of High strength low alloy steel is HSLA. It provides improved mechanical properties. In other words, this kind of structural steel is highly resistant to corrosion, unlike carbon steel. The HSLA steel is different from other types of steel owing to its distinct chemical composition.
 
HSLA steel is made from low level alloying components like manganese, titanium, vanadium, molybdenum and boron. The components can either be individually added or mixed in different combinations; based on the desired requirement.
 
It is been found that owing to HSLA steel’s higher corrosion resistant properties, builders and constructors consider using it at a vast extent. HSLA steel is a top consideration for manufacturing of structural shapes or plates.
 
Forged Steel
This kind of steel takes birth after it is given shape by means of hammering and pressing. The hammering and pressing processes give desired shape to forged steel. Also, forged steel is considered more durable and stronger than its other counterparts, making it a top choice for building and construction.
 
The process of forging is achieved when steel is heated at an extensively high temperature, by applying pressure. During the process, both thermal and mechanical energy is applied to the steel ingots or the billets. Such pressure allows the metal to deform and flow into different moulds. Forged steel is an ideal option for manufacturing of gears, hinges, bearings, and valves.
 
Quenched and Tempered Alloy Steel
Both quenched and tempered alloy steels must undergo heat treatment because of which they attain strength and hardness. These types of structural steels get their name from quenching and tempering processes. Let us explain:
 

Quenching here signifies a heating process, where steel is heated at a tremendous temperature and then suddenly cooled down using liquids such as water and oil. It causes steel to attain martensitic microstructure.
Tempering here involves a reheating process following the quenching of steel. This is conducted at a lower temperature through slow cooling. The process allows the steel to soften its martensitic microstructure making it more ductile than ever.

 
The quenched and tempered alloy steel is used in construction materials. Its usage is found in the making of bolts and shafts. The mining industry too is benefitted from the specific variant of structural steel.
 
Some Common Shapes of Structural Steel
Here we are trying to bring forth the common shapes of structural steel. Remember, these shapes depend on a wide variety of factors including angles, dimensions, tolerances, or cross-sectional measurements.
 
Have a look at the common shapes:
 

L-shape
C-shape
U-shape
Z-shape
Tubular Hollow cross forms
Square hollow cross forms
Rectangular hollow cross forms
Tapered beams and columns

 
Structural steel is known for its highest strength and weight ratio. It is thus a suitable choice for buildings, Sbridges, and other structures.
 
About the Author: This contribution has been made by Ashton Coaldrake who has written a number of articles on Structural Steel Whyalla and provides fruitful information.