Structural steel is designed with the ideal strength-to-weight ratio, making it a popular construction material used in cars, machines, and buildings. If you’re curious about whether it’s suitable for your project, consider these basics.

A Guide to Structural Steel

What are the different types of structural steel?

Structural steel comes in various types, each made of different materials and suitable for specific purposes. For example, carbon steel is typically free of additional alloying elements, making it ideal for piping and tubing. Its copper content is at or below 0.4%, and it's often labeled based on its carbon content. Another type is forged steel, which is created when mechanical and thermal energy is applied to solid steel. As a result, the steel gains a uniform grain structure, making it stronger.

What benefits does it offer?

Other materials, such as wood and cement, aren't nearly as strong as structural steel. Further, because of its ductility, it can hold heavy loads without bending and failing. It's also a malleable material, allowing for architectural versatility that can be found when looking at the skylines of big cities around the world. Lastly, because the material is so strong and durable, builders can use a lot less to save space and money.

Does structural steel require a protective coating?

Coatings can protect structural steel against rusting and corrosion, minimizing the potential for structural failure. The coating process begins with surface preparation, during which the surface is cleaned so the coating will adhere to the substrate. Next, the protective paint system is applied, including primer, intermediate coats, and finish coats.

How is structural steel used?

In the construction industry, structural steel often makes up the high strength frame used in tall buildings, bridges, and factories. Steel beams, columns, and girders are also essential building blocks. In the transportation industry, structural steel's elasticity and strength are put to good use in vehicles, trains, ships, and jet engine components. Finally, the mining industry relies on structural steel to reinforce its substructures since the material is easy to clean and doesn't interfere with mined materials.

For quality steel materials, visit Caylor Industrial Sales in Dalton, GA. For four decades, this family-owned and -operated business has provided custom-machined parts and stainless steel piping. They’ll also cover all your fabricating, welding, and coating needs. Call (706) 226-3198 to discuss the supplies you need to make your project a success, or browse their catalog of materials online.