Steel Sheet
Steel Sheet metal refers to a processing technology. While there is no “complete” definition, sheet metal can be defined as a cold working process for any type of metal sheet. Usually, this refers to anything below six millimeters, including forming (as in car bodies), splicing, riveting, folding, cutting, punching, and shearing.
A Closer Look at Steel Sheet Metal Usually, steel sheet metal is typically manufactured using cold or hot rolled sheet metal varieties. Hot Rolled Steel Sheets The hot rolled steel sheets and the plates provide rougher surfaces than the cold rolled steel and plate options. When it is galvanized, it is regularly used in situations where some level of corrosion resistance is needed. This type of sheet metal is extremely formable and has high strength. People who work with it also find that it is easy to weld, form, and drill. These sheets are available as hot rolled P & O and standard hot rolled. Some of the most common hot rolled specifications include HR A1018, HR A1011, and HR A36. When hot rolling is used for the creation of sheet metal, it uses larger ingots and larger reduction rolling. This helps to improve overall production efficiency, and it helps to create the conditions to increase rolling speed and to achieve a continual and automated rolling process. There are other benefits related to hot rolled sheet metal, including:
Cold Rolled Steel Sheets
A cold rolled steel sheet is, to put it simply, a hot rolled sheet that is processes more to increase the strength-to-weight ratio. Usually, the cold rolled sheet will be able to hold a tighter tolerance than the hot rolled when it is machined or fabricated. It also offers a much better surface finish. With cold rolling, the steel sheet will be cooled at the room temperature, after the hot rolling is complete. After this, it is annealed, or it will be tempers rolled. Even though “cold rolled steel” is considered a type of steel, this term is commonly used as a refers to all types of carbon steel. The most common specification of cold rolled sheet metal include CQ SAE 1008, ASTM A1008, ASTM A879 CQ, and ASTM A653. Steel Plate Considerations The main difference in a steel plate and a steel sheet is related to the thickness and gauge. The plate metal thickness refers to steel sheet metal that is five millimeters or more in thickness. Thickness for plate metal includes the steel sheet metal that is five millimeters or thicker. In many situations, steel plate is used for structural or construction purposes because it is both low maintenance and versatile. Some of the biggest benefits offered by steel plate include:
Getting to Know the Different Types of Sheet Metal The most commonly used sheet metal materials are able to be divided into two specific categories. These include galvanized steel and stainless steel. Galvanized Steel When it comes to galvanized steel, it can be divided into two main categories. These include hot-dipped metallic-coated sheets and electro-galvanized sheets. Each of the two types have specific characteristics that make it ideal for certain applications. Learn more about each below: The Base Metal For EG/SECC (electro-galvanized sheet) the base metal is cold rolled annealed steel. For hot dipped metallic coated sheets or GI, the base metal is cold rolled hard steel plate for this. Pre-Treatment Methods For EG/SECC, the pre-treatment method is electroplating. For GI, the pre-treatment is hot dipping. Zinc Plating The zinc plating for EG/SECC includes a harder plating for thicker sizes and the GI sheet metal has hard plating for thinner applications. Plating Surface With the EG/SECC option, the zinc layer will be absorbed through the steel’s surface. The surface remains smooth and completely free from any zinc spangle. For GI sheet metal, the solidified structure of the zinc layer may have spangle or none. Common Applications for Steel Plate and Sheet Metal Easy to work with, adaptable, and durable, steel sheet and plate metal can be used for creating an array of different structures and projects. Some of the most common uses include heavy equipment, appliances, roofing, shipping container transportation, automotive, construction, and building. When it comes to purchasing sheet metal, be sure to find a reputable and known supplier. By doing this, you can feel confident you are getting the high-quality materials that are needed and that you are not overpaying for the materials. Our team is here to help with sheet metal needs. Contact us today to learn more. |
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