At homeInteresting facts What is the difference between stainless steel and mild steel
Interesting facts Marketing manager·February 3, 2021·comments from
Steel is an integral, classified and essential material in the development of the industrial world. Ranging from carbon steel to stainless steel, numerous types and grades are sourced all over the world. Mild steel belongs to one of a wide range. Iron is alloyed with carbon to form mild steel.
Chemical composition
Mild steel is basically steel with a low carbon content. It contains approximately 0.05% to 0.25% carbon by weight. It is basically non-alloy steel and does not contain chromium, molybdenum or any other alloying element. The chemical composition distinguishes its properties from alloy steel.
Physical Characteristics
Mild steel is tough, machinable and weldable. It can be easily cut, machined and shaped into various industrially oriented shapes. Mild steel is not strengthened by heat treatment. The absence of alloying elements makes it more susceptible to corrosion.
How is mild steel made?
The formation of mild steel involves a combination of iron ore and coal in the presence of lime and fused together in a blast furnace. Molten iron is then formed. Molten iron contains impurities and must be eradicated. Basic Oxygen Steel (BOS) and Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) are the two common alternative methods for burning impurities. This step is called primary steel production. Then the secondary steelmaking process begins, where adjustments are made to achieve the chemical composition of mild steel. Steel is then poured to solidify into the desired shapes. The mild steel plates are formed into various products by hot rolling or cold drawing.
USE OF MOLTEN STEEL
Carbon steel is positioned as the leading element in steel production. Mild steel has some impressive properties, such as high tensile strength and impact strength. Mild steel is widely used in various industries. It is the most common type of steel used.
Some common uses are as follows:
- Construction – Mild steel is widely used in construction because it is economical to weld and machine. It can withstand shock loads and is widely used in construction, such as buildings and bridges.
- Machine applications - such as car production. It is easily accessible for cutting and welding.
- Knives – Carbon steel knives stay sharp longer and are easier to sharpen. Professional chefs prefer knives with a high carbon content because they require a lot of precision knife work in the kitchen.
- Fencing - Mild steel can be adjusted to different shapes and provides visual appeal.
- Pipelines, poles, wire and nails are commonly constructed from mild steel.
The difference between stainless steel and mild steel
Steel is the phenomenal term that is part of a wide variety of metal products. Stainless steel and mild steel are clearly distinguishable, as are their applications.
Alloy element
This is the most important characteristic to determine the factor. Stainless steel has chromium, nickel and molybdenum as alloying elements, while mild steel is alloyed with carbon. This base composition is responsible for creating the difference in corrosion resistance, weldability, cost, applications, etc.
Stainless steel
Chromium is the alloying element in stainless steel and reacts with oxygen in the atmosphere to form a protective layer called chromium oxide. This layer offers significant corrosion resistance. On the contrary, Mild Steel does not contain chromium. The iron content in mild steel reacts with moisture in the air to form iron oxide, which is essentially rust. Stainless steel offers significant resistance to corrosion, while mild steel does not, requiring an additional coating that prevents rust.Stainless steel is stronger than mild steel.
Hardness
Stainless steel exhibits more hardness than mild steel because stainless steel contains chromium and nickel.
Ductility
Ductility is the ability to undergo deformation with cracks. Mild steel has a low carbon content and is tougher than stainless steel.
Weldability
Mild steel is more weldable than stainless steel.
Magnetisering
Mild steel exhibits permanent magnetization as the iron content increases. Conversely, stainless steel is not characterized by the presence of a magnetic field.
production
Mild steel is easy to cut or bend, while stainless steel requires machinery and engineering.
Aesthetics
Stainless steel has more shine and visual appeal than mild steel.
Cleaning and maintenance
Stainless steel requires less maintenance than mild steel
Application
Mild steel is widely used in construction and automobiles. Due to its corrosion resistance, stainless steel is widely used in commercial food processing equipment, chemical storage and manufacturing, surgical equipment, marine use, etc.
To live
The service life is longer for stainless steel because mild steel corrodes easily without proper maintenance.
Cost
Cost is a major consideration when it comes to choosing between stainless steel and mild steel. The alloying elements, manufacturing process and skilled workers are required to produce stainless steel. On the other hand, mild steel is an economical metal.
In short, stainless steel and mild steel exhibit characteristic, unparalleled qualities. The type of steel to choose depends on comprehensive needs. At Ambica Steels, our technical solutions expert group is always ready for questions and consultation.
