Steel has many types such as steel plates, steel sheets, stainless steel, etc., easy to find and flexible in many uses. So how are steel classified into several groups and what are the applications of steel in industry and life? Let's find out with An Nhien through the article below.

I. WHAT IS STEEL MATERIAL?

Steel is an alloy, mainly composed of Iron (Fe) and Carbon (C). Steel is produced through the process of melting and shaping from the main raw materials of iron ore, coke (carbon) and other auxiliary materials such as nickel, manganese, silicon, etc.

Depending on the needs and purposes of use, steel is produced into many types with different physical properties. With typical physical properties, high durability, toughness, good bearing capacity, steel classification will help users to take full advantage of the features that steel brings.

II. STEEL CLASSIFICATION

Currently on the market there are many different types of steel, depending on the purpose of use, steel is classified into 3 main types as follows:

1.Structural carbon steel

Carbon structural steel is classified as a group of high-quality steels with low harmful impurities (S ≤ 0.04%, P ≤ 0.035%), precise carbon content and clear mechanical properties. Carbon structural steel in the index provides information on composition and mechanical properties.

This type of steel is often used to manufacture machine parts that require high load-bearing capacity such as gears, screws, cams, springs, etc.

According to TCVN standards, carbon structural steel is denoted by the letter C, followed by the carbon content index of the steel. For example, C45 means carbon steel with an average content of 0.45% C.

Carbon structural steel is denoted according to the standards of different countries. In Japan (JIS) the designation is SxxC, where xx are the numbers indicating the tenths of C. For example, grade S45C means carbon steel with an average content of 0.45% C.

In the US (AISI/SAE) the designation is 10xx, where xx are the numbers indicating the tenths of C. For example, grade 1045 means carbon steel with an average content of 0.45% C.

2. Carbon tool steel

Tool carbon steel is a type of steel with high carbon content (0.7 - 1.4%) and low S and P impurities content (< 0.025%). This type of steel has high hardness after heat treatment, but low heat resistance.

Carbon steel is often used to make tools such as chisels, files, measuring tools or stamping dies.

According to TCVN standards, this type of steel is denoted by the letter CD, followed by the carbon content index of the steel in ten thousandths. For example: CD100 - the letter CD denotes tool carbon steel and 100 indicates average ten thousandths of carbon (equivalent to 1% C).

Common types of steel

3. CT3 Steel

CT3 steel is a low carbon steel with a structure belonging to group C and has a tensile strength limit of 8. This type of steel is mainly used in the manufacture of machine parts, molds, and plate processing and has many applications in construction, steel structures, wharves, metal processing, and machine parts.

The symbol CT in the name of this steel stands for "Low Carbon", and the number 3 indicates that it belongs to group C. According to the Ministry of Construction's Information Portal, TCVN 1765:1975 standard on steel, group C includes steel types such as CCT34, CCT38, ... In which, the number after number 3 (specifically 4 and 8) indicates the tensile strength limit of the steel.

III. ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF STEEL

Each steel classification group has different physical and chemical properties, which also significantly affect the advantages and disadvantages of steel properties.

1. Advantage

• Steel is highly recyclable, helping to minimize negative impacts on the environment. Recycling steel not only saves raw materials but also reduces waste and environmental pollution.
• Steel has outstanding physical properties such as hardness, durability and toughness, which help steel have great load-bearing capacity, so it is often used in infrastructure construction projects, factories, enterprises, etc.
• Steel has good fire resistance, helping to protect the safety of users.

Advantages and disadvantages of steel

2. Disadvantages

• The first disadvantage of steel is its large mass, which makes it difficult to move and install. This can increase the cost of transporting materials.
• Steel is also susceptible to corrosion when exposed to humid or chemical environments. If not treated with paint, galvanizing or anti-oxidant coating, it will quickly be damaged by external environmental influences.
• Steel has good thermal conductivity, so the temperature from the surrounding environment can affect the worker's body, causing discomfort and potential risks of high temperatures.
• Steel is a conductive metal, so when used in environments with a risk of exposure to electricity, it is necessary to take precautions against the risk of electric shock or injury caused by electric current.

In an era of increasingly advanced technology, new types of steel with lighter weight and better corrosion resistance are being developed and widely used.

.III. Applications of steel in industry and life

Classifying steel into groups makes it easy to apply in industries and daily life such as construction, household appliances or labor protection equipment such as steel-toed safety shoes, impact-resistant steel lining, and puncture-resistant steel.

• The application of steel in construction and architecture, these are the main areas using steel. The strength and elasticity of this material are the foundation for the construction of large, modern structures such as pillars and warehouse structures, etc.
• The automobile manufacturing industry is also indispensable for steel, from supplying car parts to using in the production of control panels and mechanical components, ensuring safety and high performance.
• In the electronics industry, steel is used to manufacture conductive and high-temperature resistant materials, while in the refrigeration industry, it plays an important role in the production of refrigeration equipment.
• The shipbuilding industry also uses steel as the main raw material for the construction of ships and wharves.

Applications of Steel in Industry and Life

• In the energy industry, steel is the main material in the construction of power stations and renewable energy projects. In addition, steel is also used in the construction of solar power projects, helping to take advantage of renewable energy sources.
• Steel is used in daily life such as household appliances, appliances, decorations, etc.
• Application of steel in labor protection, steel is used to produce protective equipment such as safety shoes, cut-resistant gloves, safety belts, etc.

VI. Potential and development of steel materials

According to Nhan Dan Newspaper, the steel industry's prospects are expected to have many bright spots in 2024, with steel consumption expected to increase by about 6.4%, steel demand in the ASEAN market is expected to increase by 5.2% and in Vietnam will increase by about 10% in the year, expected to be 8% in 2025. Opening the industrial era and promoting development.

Development potential of steel materials

At the same time, these positive points also open up many job opportunities for workers and laborers. The demand for steel classification and steel applications in industry and protection is expected to increase rapidly in the near future.

VII. Conclude

The article on steel classification – applications of steel in industry and life has brought you useful information about steel. Please contact An Nhien Company for advice and supply of high quality steel labor protection products. We are committed to providing you with safe and reliable solutions.