Steel is a term which describes an entire family of metals. There are many grades, but most types of fall into two broad categories, carbon steels and stainless steels. They share the same basic composition of iron and carbon, but adding additional elements set them apart.
CARBON STEEL
Carbon steel is the most common type of steel and the most susceptible to corrosion.
Not all carbon steel is the same. Depending on the chemical composition, it will fall into three main classifications.
Grade | Series | Properties | Pros | Cons | Plateable |
Low | 1008/1010 | Mild Steel | Easy to Form & Economical | Low Tensile Strength | Strong Candidate |
Medium | 1040 | Harder/Stronger | Strength & Wear Resistant | Difficult to Shape and Weld | Strong Candidate |
High | 1050/1075 | Extremely Strong | High Strength & Corrosion Resistance | Difficult to Shape and Brittle | Not Likely |
Carbon steel is versatile, economical, recyclable and the most used of all the steel alloys
STAINLESS STEEL
Stainless steel is a universal term referring to a variety of steel types. Stainless steel is made mainly from iron and carbon, but the addition of chromium, and other elements, create a corrosion-resistant product which sets it apart from carbon steel.
When chromium is added to steel it forms a protective surface to prevent air and moisture from causing rust. There are more than 100 different grades of stainless steel. The lower the grade the better.
Corrosion resistance is not the only appeal of stainless steel. Stainless steel is also:
- Strong and durable
- Easily fabricated
- Easy cleaned and maintained
- Long lasting
- Visually attractive
- Environmentally friendly and recyclable.
In addition, stainless steel is available in over a dozen different finishes, offering an even greater level of customization for your respective project.
Whether your project calls carbon steel, stainless steel, or another alloy, Reliable Metal Stamping Co., Inc. is capable and ready to get your project off the ground.
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