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steel plate mill scale,What is Steel Plate Mill Scale? Steel plate mill scale is a thin layer that forms on the surface of steel plates during

What is Steel Plate Mill Scale?

Steel plate mill scale is a thin layer that forms on the surface of steel plates during the hot - rolling process in a steel mill. It is mainly composed of iron oxides. This scale is a natural by - product of the high - temperature processing of steel. In the mill, when the steel is heated to extremely high temperatures and then passed through rollers to form plates, the outer layer of the steel reacts with oxygen in the air, creating this mill scale.

The Appearance of Steel Plate Mill Scale

The mill scale usually has a dark - colored, flaky appearance. It can range in color from black to a bluish - black. It adheres firmly to the surface of the steel plate initially. However, over time or with certain mechanical or chemical treatments, it can start to flake off. This appearance is characteristic and can be easily recognized by those who work in the steel industry or are familiar with steel products.

Impact on Steel Plate Quality

While mill scale might seem like just a surface layer, it can have an impact on the quality of the steel plate. On one hand, it can provide a certain degree of protection to the underlying steel during short - term storage or transportation as it acts as a sort of natural coating. But on the other hand, if the steel plate is to be used in applications where a clean, smooth surface is required, such as in some precision manufacturing or welding processes, the presence of mill scale can be a problem. It can interfere with the welding quality by causing porosity in the welds, or it can affect the adhesion of coatings if the plate needs to be painted or coated for corrosion protection.

Removal of Steel Plate Mill Scale

There are several methods for removing mill scale from steel plates. One common method is mechanical removal, which can include processes like grinding, shot blasting, or sandblasting. Grinding is often used for smaller areas or for more precise removal, while shot blasting and sandblasting are more suitable for larger surfaces. Another method is chemical removal, using acids or alkaline solutions. However, chemical removal requires careful handling to avoid damage to the steel plate itself and also to ensure proper disposal of the chemical waste. In some cases, a combination of mechanical and chemical methods may be used to achieve the best results.

Questions and Answers

Question 1: How does steel plate mill scale form?Answer: Steel plate mill scale forms when the steel is heated to high temperatures during the hot - rolling process in a steel mill and the outer layer of the steel reacts with oxygen in the air.

Question 2: What are the problems caused by steel plate mill scale in welding?Answer: Steel plate mill scale can cause porosity in the welds, which can interfere with the welding quality when the steel plate is used in welding processes.