plated steel vs rolled steel,Plan Ahead for Steel

plated steel vs rolled steel,Introduction to Plated Steel and Rolled Steel Plated steel and rolled steel are two important types of steel in the manu

Introduction to Plated Steel and Rolled Steel

Plated steel and rolled steel are two important types of steel in the manufacturing and construction industries. Plated steel refers to steel that has a thin layer of another metal, such as zinc or chromium, deposited on its surface. This plating process is mainly used to improve the steel's corrosion resistance, appearance, or other properties. For example, galvanized steel, which is a type of plated steel, is widely used in roofing and fencing because it can resist rust for a long time.

Rolled steel, on the other hand, is produced by passing a steel billet through rollers. This process can shape the steel into various forms, such as sheets, bars, or tubes. Rolled steel is very versatile and can be found in many applications. For instance, rolled steel sheets are used in making car bodies, and rolled steel bars are often used in construction for reinforcing concrete structures.

Properties Comparison

When it comes to properties, plated steel has the advantage of enhanced surface properties. The plating layer can provide better protection against environmental factors like moisture and chemicals. However, the thickness of the plating layer is relatively thin, which may limit its long - term durability in harsh conditions. For example, if the plating layer is scratched, the underlying steel may start to corrode.

Rolled steel has excellent mechanical properties. Depending on the rolling process, it can have different levels of strength and ductility. For example, cold - rolled steel is usually harder and stronger than hot - rolled steel. But rolled steel may not have as good corrosion resistance as plated steel without additional treatment. It is more likely to rust when exposed to moisture.

Cost Considerations

The cost of plated steel and rolled steel can vary significantly. Plated steel may be more expensive due to the additional plating process. The cost of the plating material and the plating operation itself add to the overall cost. However, in some cases, the long - term benefits of using plated steel, such as reduced maintenance costs due to better corrosion resistance, may offset the initial higher cost.

Rolled steel is generally more cost - effective in terms of basic production. The rolling process is a well - established and relatively inexpensive method of shaping steel. But if additional corrosion protection is required for rolled steel, such as painting or coating, the overall cost may increase.

Applications in Different Industries

In the automotive industry, both plated steel and rolled steel are used. Rolled steel is used for the main structure of the vehicle, such as the chassis and body frame, because of its strength and formability. Plated steel is often used for parts that require good corrosion resistance, such as exhaust systems and some exterior trim pieces.

In the construction industry, rolled steel is a staple for building frames and reinforcement. It provides the necessary strength to support large structures. Plated steel is used in some exterior applications where appearance and corrosion resistance are important, like window frames and some decorative elements.

Questions and Answers

Question 1: Which one is more suitable for outdoor furniture, plated steel or rolled steel?Answer: Plated steel is more suitable for outdoor furniture. Since outdoor furniture is exposed to the elements, the corrosion - resistant plating on plated steel can protect it from rusting and maintain its appearance for a longer time, while rolled steel without additional protection may rust quickly outdoors.

Question 2: How does the manufacturing process of plated steel differ from that of rolled steel?Answer: The manufacturing process of plated steel involves depositing a thin layer of another metal on the surface of the steel, while the manufacturing process of rolled steel is to pass a steel billet through rollers to shape it into different forms like sheets or bars.