5 Different Types of Steel You Didn't Know Existed

5 Different Types of Steel You Didn't Know Existed

When you think of steel, what comes to mind? Chances are, your brain conjured up an image of the type of steel used in major infrastructure projects, like bridges and skyscrapers. But there’s so much more to steel than meets the eye! In fact, we use steel in our everyday lives without even realizing it – whether it’s the car you drive to work or the dishwasher that washes your dishes.

Carbon steels

Carbon steel is one of the most widely used types of steel. It has a tensile strength that exceeds that of many other materials, and it can be forged or welded without difficulty. Carbon steels can be classified into two groups: low carbon steels and high carbon steels. Low-carbon steels are very low in carbon content, typically between 0.1% and 0.3%. These steels are easy to machine, weld, and form, making them ideal for construction purposes where they undergo a lot of shaping during installation.

Alloy steels

There are many different types of steel, and the most common are carbon steels. These steels are made up mostly of iron with a small amount of carbon. Alloy steel is a type of steel that is mostly made up of iron with nickel, chromium, or both in order to increase its strength. Another common type is stainless steel which has a higher level of chromium than carbon and can resist corrosion better than other types. Tool steels have a high content of tungsten and cobalt in order to increase their hardness while still being tough enough to use for tools. Sheet metal steels are used in applications such as car bodies because they can be cut easily into the desired shape and thicknesses.

Stainless steels

-304 is one of the most commonly used stainless steels, due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. It's often used in cookware and other household items that come into contact with food.

-316 has a higher concentration of chromium, which makes it more resistant to oxidation than 304. It's often used in marine applications because it can better withstand the harsh saltwater environment. -440C is an extremely durable steel alloy that resists rust and corrosion well. It's often found in kitchen knives, as well as some surgical tools where precision is important. -420 is a low carbon steel that doesn't require much maintenance for upkeep, making it popular for cooking utensils such as frying pans or grills.

Tool steels

Tool steel is a group of alloys that have high hardness and wear resistance, making them particularly well-suited for use in cutting tools. Tool steel is also called high speed steel because it can be used at higher speeds than other types of steels. Tool steels typically have more carbon than stainless steels and are divided into four categories: O1, A2, D2, and M2.

Wrought iron

It was used in the past to create some very beautiful things such as railings, gates, fences and furniture. Iron is a metallic element that is made up of iron and oxygen. The molecular structure contains two atoms of iron which are magnetized and oriented opposite from each other giving it a negative charge.

When placed with other elements like carbon or nickel, it can have a positive charge called steel with an even higher durability rating than cast iron. Wrought Iron is mostly seen in outdoor settings where it weathers well against rust and corrosion because it's been wrought (worked) into shape by hammering the material into wire-like strands.

Although many would think this type would be more commonly found inside houses, wrought iron has been associated more with rustic pieces since they don't require any maintenance outside on patios or porches.