Alloy Steels- Overview and the common uses of the Alloy Steels

Alloy steel is a kind of steel that is alloyed with a variety of elements. It weighs in between 1.0% and 50%. This is because the steel with this much weight consists of good mechanical properties. These are then further broken down and categorized as low alloy steels and high alloy steels. All steels are alloys but not all steels can be said as alloy steels. Some of the properties of alloy steels are:

•        Strength

•        Hardness

•        Toughness

•        Wear resistance

•        Corrosion resistance

•        Hardenability

•        Hot hardness

Alloy steels consist of one or more than one element excluding carbon such as manganese, nickel, copper etc. Actually, this steel creates an alloy with specific properties that are not found in carbon steels. These steels are used in industries widely due to their unique features like their low cost, extensive availability, ease of processing and other mechanical properties.

The commonly used elements are Aluminum in the range of 0.95-1.30%, Boron in the range of 0.001-0.003%, Chromium in the range of 0.5-18%, copper in the range of 0.1-0.4%, Lead, Manganese in the range of 0.25-13%, and Nickel in the range of 2-20%.

Alloy steels are divided into four classes-

1.       Structural steels- subjected to stresses in machine parts

2.       Tool and die steels

3.       Magnetic alloys

4.       Stainless and heat-resisting steels

These steels have become ubiquitous metals like stainless steel as they have their uses in everything from cookware to building arts. This alloy has various attributes due to which it is considered as very useful steel. It has an excellent shine, a surface that resists corrosion and rust, and it proves to be very durable under harsh conditions of weather.

Common uses of the Alloy steels:

There are many uses of this steel. Some of them are listed below that are very common.

Architecture: The alloy steel has been used in architecture for a long time. Some of the famous buildings have been made from this steel. Tons of corrosion resistant sheet metals are used to prevent the buildings from corrosion. It actually works. All the buildings that have been built using this steel create a luminescent, ever-shining façade. This is why these steels are used as they protect the buildings from being dull.

Household items: Stainless steel is used for everything when it comes to the household- from countertops to body jewelry- it covers everything. As this alloy resists staining and rust, this is considered as the best choice for household things. The pots and pans in the kitchen are mostly surrounded by the alloy steel protection to protect them from stains. This is because the items used for cookware should be beneficial in health, so rust is not allowed.

Artwork: Many artists have started using steel alloys for fine art pieces. These are used to create a canvas, a contemporary abstract art that is painted. Also, some of the statues have been made from this alloy steel so that they remain shiny always.

So, these are some common uses of alloy steels. These have made their place in the world of steels and are considered the best for many things.