Steel is a versatile material which is used in many ways. It is extremely popular as it has a wide range of uses, from simple construction applications to complex engineering projects. Steel can be used to make entire buildings or just small parts, and it comes in many varieties and grades. In order to determine which type of steel is best for a given application, one must first understand the various steel grades and their properties.
The steel grades are typically designated by a four digit number, with the first two digits representing the major alloying element and the last two digits representing the carbon content. For example, in the steel grade 1045 we find that 10 represents the carbon content and 45 represents the level of alloying elements. Other steel grades may have higher or lower digits for each category which in turn modifies the characteristics of the steel. There are different grade systems worldwide and in order to ensure accuracy, it is important to have an idea of the most common and popular steel grades.
In the United States and Canada, the most popular alloy steel grades are 1020, 1045, and 4140. 1020 steel is relatively soft and ductile and is used in cold rolling and normalizing applications. 1045 steel is much harder and stronger than 1020. It is commonly used in industrial tools and machine parts and is used when greater strength is needed than 1020. It is generally used to make shafts and bolts. 4140 is much harder than 1045 but is still considered an alloy steel. This steel is used when very high strength levels are required in an application.
In Europe, the most popular alloy steel grades are S235, S355, and S500. These steels all have a relatively low carbon content and are often used in cold forming operations. S235 steel is a structural steel that is commonly used for bridges, construction applications, and for general fabrication. S355 steel is also known as a higher strength structural steel and is often used for applications such as crane booms and offshore structures. S500 steel is a high-grade structural steel and is often used for components that require a high tensile strength with a high yield.
In China and other parts of Asia, some of the more popular alloy steel grades are Q235 and Q345. These are also low carbon steels typically used in cold forming operations. Q235 is equivalent to AISI 1020 while Q345 is equivalent to AISI 1045. Most steels in China will display these two grades with one typically being an upgrade of the other.
The above nations are just a few examples of where certain steel grades are popular. There are many other steel grades that are popular in various regions and they can be found online or by contacting a local steel supplier. In addition, steel grade systems can vary between countries so it is important to understand the local grade systems when using steel in international applications.
Overall, steel is an extremely versatile material that is used for a variety of applications. It is important to understand the different steel grades and their respective characteristics and advantages to ensure that you have the right grade for the intended application. With careful consideration and understanding of the various properties and grades of steel, you can ensure that your next project utilizes the perfect grade of steel.
