American Industrial Company works with a variety of materials. Two of the most utilized metals are Cold Rolled Steel and Stainless Steel. We created two material selection charts for both of these materials in order to take the guess work out of what grade is best for specific applications. Below is a brief summary of both materials and then at the end of this blog you’ll find a button that will take you to the charts in order for you to download each – for free!
Cold Rolled Steel
Many manufacturers are familiar with the significant advantages that Cold Rolled Steel (“CRS”) provides to raw materials. American Industrial is an expert in this process.
The high pressure exerted on cold steel results in a smooth finish with more precise dimensional consistency. This dimensional consistency equals less processing during manufacturing – an advantage for you.
In addition, the cold rolling process imparts “strain hardening” to the material. Via the process, cold rolled steel gains up to 20% additional “hardness” over non-rolled steel. Also, the rolling process allows for a variety of shapes for the material. CRS is available in round, square, and flat. The various metal grades provide a range of strength and ductile capabilities for CRS. Knowing which grade is made easier with ourCold Rolled Steel Selection Guide.
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel has become one of the most utilized materials by manufacturers. In particular, the metal’s corrosion resistance is the reason that many parts and components are fabricated out of stainless steel.
Stainless steel’s resistance to corrosion is due to its naturally occurring chromium-rich oxide film. This film forms at the surface of the metal and is extremely thin and invisible. This chromium self-repairs any damage from oxidation, cutting or machining. Today, stainless steel is one of the most alloyed materials.
There are many grades of the metal from 202 which is ideal for automotive trim and other applications to 348, used primarily for nuclear applications. With these many grades of stainless steel, knowing which grade is best for your specific application shouldn’t be a guessing game. Our other material selection chart is the Stainless Steel Material Guide.
If you’d like to download one or both of these guides, please feel free to do so and remember there is no cost. We hope you find them to be useful.