Steel is one of the most versatile materials on the planet, and National Material Company, a leading American metal processor, knows it better than most. In this blog, we’ll explore the unique properties that make steel a durable, strong, and adaptable material for a wide range of applications. From construction to transportation to everyday household items, steel has become an integral part of our lives.

Join us as we dive into the versatility of this material and why it continues to be a crucial component in various industries.

Strength and Durability

One of the most notable properties of steel is its strength and durability. Steel is known for its high tensile strength, which means it can withstand a lot of stress without breaking or deforming. This makes it ideal for use in construction, where it can be used to create buildings, bridges, and other structures that need to support a lot of weight and withstand harsh weather conditions.

Flexibility and Malleability

While steel is incredibly strong, it is also remarkably flexible and malleable. This means it can be shaped and molded into a variety of forms without losing its strength. This makes it ideal for use in manufacturing, where it can be used to create everything from car parts to household appliances.

Corrosion Resistance

Another important property of steel is its resistance to corrosion. Steel, when properly treated, is highly resistant to rust and other forms of corrosion, making it an ideal choice for various applications. For instance, steel coils can undergo a galvanizing process in a continuous galvanizing line, like the one available at National Galvanizing – a National Material partner company. This process involves applying a galvanized coating to the steel, which further enhances its corrosion resistance. Galvanized steel is widely used in automotive manufacturing, appliances, agricultural equipment, and other demanding applications where superior corrosion protection is essential.

Notably, galvanized steel body panels are highly sought after by automakers due to their exceptional corrosion protection. These panels enable automakers to offer corrosion-free performance for extended periods, often guaranteeing a decade or longer of rust-free operation.

Recyclability

Steel is also highly recyclable, which makes it an environmentally friendly choice. When steel products reach the end of their useful life, they can be recycled and used to create into new steel products, reducing the need for new steel production, and conserving natural resources.

Cost-Effectiveness

Finally, steel is a cost-effective, widely available material and is easy to manufacture. This makes it an affordable choice for a wide range of applications, from construction to manufacturing to consumer goods. American metal processors like NMC have the expertise to offer cost-effective solutions to their customers. By leveraging their knowledge of steel processing and manufacturing, they can produce high-quality products at competitive prices.

What are the types of steel and how is it determined?

Steel types are determined based on various factors, including their chemical composition, physical properties, and intended use. The main elements that determine the properties of steel are carbon, alloying […]