Introduction
Hot-rolled steel or cold-rolled steel, is a popular product used in a variety of applications. Hot-rolled steel has been hot rolled, aged and cooled, while cold-rolled steel has been processed further and has been hot rolled, re-rolled and then cooled. Hot-rolled steel is more ductile and often used for construction and automotive applications, while cold-rolled steel is often used for precision instruments and machinery.
History
Hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel have been around since the late 19th century. They were first developed as a way to produce very strong and durable steel for construction and industrial applications. Hot-rolled steel was first introduced in Germany in 1877 and in the United States in 1883. It quickly gained popularity due to its versatility, strength and low cost. Hot-rolled steel was extremely popular during the Industrial Revolution and continues to be used for many applications today.
Cold-rolled steel was developed in England in the late 19th century and became popular in the United States after World War II. Cold-rolling steel is more precise and accurate than hot-rolling steel, and produces a tighter grain structure that provides greater strength and rigidity. It is often used for high-precision tools, medical equipment, automobiles and other precision instrumentation.
Types of Hot- and Cold-Rolled Steel
There are two main types of hot-rolled steel—low carbon and high carbon. Low carbon steel is softer and is typically used in applications such as automotive parts and furniture. High carbon steel is harder and is often used to make tools and machines.
Cold-rolled steel can be divided into two categories—ordinary and stainless steel. Ordinary cold-rolled steel is harder than hot-rolled steel and is often used to make tools and machines. Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion and is often used for food preparation and high-temperature applications.
Benefits of Hot- and Cold-Rolled Steel
Hot-rolled steel is typically cheaper than cold-rolled steel, which can reduce costs for consumers and manufacturers. It is also easier to form and shape, which makes it great for construction and automotive applications.
Cold-rolled steel is much harder and more precise than hot-rolled steel, which makes it great for precision instruments and machines. It is also much more resistant to corrosion, so it is often used in food preparation and high-temperature applications.
Conclusion
Hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel have both been around for over a century and are widely used today for a variety of applications. Hot-rolled steel is cheaper and easier to form and shape, making it great for construction and automotive applications, while cold-rolled steel is harder and more precise, making it great for precision instruments and machines.