Difference between Stainless Steel and Cold Rolled Steel
Steel is used for metal fabrication and forming purposes. It is essential to be aware of the difference between various types of steel manufactured by the steel mill roll manufacturer. It helps in easily sourcing the best material for any project based on the properties. Today we will talk about two main types of steel i.e., stainless steel and cold-rolled steel.
What are the Key Differences?
It is important to understand that stainless steel is an alloy whereas cold-rolled steel is a process. Stainless steel is a metallic compound which is made of steel and other elements.
On the other hand, cold-rolled steel is not an alloy. It is a process used by steel mill roll manufacturer to offer a finishing touch to the steel. The cold rolling process begins on the steel which has already been hot rolled. During the rolling process, power rollers put pressure on the steel sheet which produces a thin and hard final product.
Properties and Uses
When the right elements are combined together, the stainless steel can become lighter, stronger, and easily machined. Stainless steel contains 16 to 18% of chromium and 6 to 10% nickel. This combination offers high corrosion resistance to stainless steel. Also, low carbon content means the steel doesn’t get hardened by heat treatment. The 304 stainless steel is one of the most common grades of steel which is popularly used in the dairy and aircraft industry.
Cold-rolled steel is known for its smooth and fine finishing. 1008/ 1010 cold-rolled steel can be easily formed for various applications. It is popularly used in the manufacturing of furniture, automotive bodies, and home appliances.
Advantages of Stainless Steel
· The stainless steel is easy to heat up, push, and cool down for various applications.
· It is more expensive than cold rolled steel.
· Stainless steel is cooled down at room temperature and it’s free from any internal stresses that arise from work-hardening processes.
· The most popular shapes of stainless steel are- UC, UB, SHS, RHS, PFC, flats, etc.
Disadvantages
· There can be few dimensional imperfections caused by expanding and cooling of the steel.
· Chances of rough texture on the steel surface that requires buffing before painting.
· Chances of minor distortions.
Advantages of Cold Rolled Steel
· This type of steel comes with an accurate shape.
· The cold-rolled steel is available in a wide array of surface finishes.
· Cold rolled steel has a smooth and shiny surface.
· The cold rolled steel bards have square and well-defined corners/ edges.
· Tubes come with better straightness and concentric uniformity.
Disadvantages
· There are only fewer shapes available for the cold-rolled steel such as sheets, box section shapes- CHS, SHS, RHS.
· Additional treatment on the steel can lead to internal stress within the material It can lead to unpredictable warping if the steel is not stress-relieved before grinding, cutting, or welding.
How to Spot the Difference?
Stainless steel comes with a scaly surface with rounded edges and corners with a non-oily surface. The cold rolled steel has a greasy finish and a smooth surface with sharp edges.
Cost
Various steel products are priced differently owing to different specifications and characteristics of different materials. Also, the price varies based on the quality, quantity, and market fluctuations. However, stainless steel is known for being more expensive as compared to cold-rolled steel.
If you wish to know more about the cost of different types of steel, you can request a quote from the steel mill roll manufacturer.
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Picking the right metal for your next project can be tricky. You might find yourself wondering which is right for you — stainless steel or cold rolled steel? Both have pros and cons.
This article will explain the key differences between the two in simple terms. We'll compare things like cost, uses, and properties so that you can confidently pick the perfect material for your next project.
Key Differences
When it comes to stainless steel versus cold rolled steel, the most notable differences stem from how each material is made.
Stainless Steel
Think of stainless steel as super-powered steel. It's actually not one type of metal, but an entire family of metals made by mixing regular steel with elements like chromium, nickel, and molybdenum. This special combo gives stainless steel its superpower: built-in rust resistance.
Cold Rolled Steel
Cold rolled steel starts as regular steel before it's heated and rolled through powerful machines to make it thinner and smoother. While it lacks the durability of stainless steel, it's more affordable and easier to work with.
Properties & Uses
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a tough, corrosion-resistant metal that's like a superhero shield against the elements. This makes it ideal for demanding applications like building airplanes, dairy equipment, and kitchen sinks.
The secret to its strength is the right blend of chromium and nickel. Stainless steel is also surprisingly lightweight for its durability, so it's used extensively in planes and rockets. Its low carbon content makes it easy to weld.
The most common grade, 304 stainless steel, is used everywhere from food processors to water bottles.
Cold Rolled Steel
Cold rolled steel lacks the flashiness of stainless steel, but its smooth finish makes it perfect for home appliances and furniture where looks matter.
Don't be fooled though — cold rolled steel can bend easily and be shaped into car bodies, shelves, and more. It's available in different strengths — hard for stiffness or soft for easy bending. Choose the right temper and your project will take shape beautifully!
COST
While comparing prices directly can be tricky, here's a breakdown of what influences the cost of stainless steel and cold rolled steel.
Stainless Steel
- Material makeup: Its chromium and nickel content contribute to a higher price point compared to cold rolled steel.
- Specific grade: Different grades offer varying properties and performance, impacting cost.
- Market fluctuations: Like any commodity, stainless steel prices are subject to market changes.
COLD ROLLED STEEL
- Production process: Cold rolling is generally less resource-intensive than producing stainless steel, making it less expensive.
- Thickness and finish: Thicker gauges and special finishes like galvanization can raise the cost.
- Quantity: Ordering larger amounts often comes with bulk discounts.
For a precise cost tailored to your project, request a personalized quote from our team. We factor in both your specific needs and current market conditions to ensure an accurate estimate.
Remember: Focusing on the right steel based on its properties and suitability for your project can offer long-term savings in both time and money.
Why Choose Mead Metals for Your Stainless Steel and Cold Rolled Steel Needs?
For decades, we've mastered the secrets of stainless steel and cold rolled steel. Our team of steel experts can pinpoint the perfect type for your project, every time.
Need a common grade like 4140 to C1050? We've got them in stock. Looking for a specific custom alloy? We specialize in those too.
And here's the best part: we understand cost pressures. We'll work with you to find the steel that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
At Mead Metals, it's not just about selling steel. It's about building strong partnerships and delivering reliable solutions. Let our experience guide your next project.