- Low-Carbon Steel:
- Contains less than 0.25 wt.% carbon and cannot be hardened by heat treatment to form martensite.
- Typically used for applications where ductility and machinability are crucial.
- Examples include mild steel coils and cold-rolled carbon steel coils.
- Its carbon content ensures it remains relatively soft and easy to work with.
- Medium-Carbon Steel:
- Contains between 0.25 and 0.60 wt.% carbon and 0.60 to 1.65 wt.% manganese.
- Balances strength and ductility.
- Used in applications requiring higher strength, such as structural components and automotive parts.
- Wear resistance is a notable feature.
- Hot-rolled carbon steel coils often fall into this category.
- High-Carbon Steel:
- Contains between 0.60 and 1.25 wt.% carbon and 0.30 to 0.90 wt.% manganese.
- Offers exceptional hardness and wear resistance.
- Commonly used for cutting tools, springs, and high-strength wires.
- Sae 1006 hot rolled coils may belong to this group.
- Ultra-High Carbon Steel:
- Contains up to 2.1 wt.% carbon.
- Extremely hard and brittle.
- Used in specialized applications like knife blades and drill bits.
- Cold-rolled carbon steel coils with high carbon content fall into this category.
Why is carbon steel so good?
- Durability and Strength:
- Carbon steel is extremely strong and shock-resistant.
- It’s a popular choice for construction, piping, and supporting modern roads.
- Unlike some other metals, carbon steel is not prone to rotting.
- 可持续性：
- Carbon steel is environmentally friendly and easily recyclable.
- It can be reused in various applications.
- The energy required to produce carbon steel is lower compared to metals like aluminum and copper.
- Affordability:
- Manufacturing products from carbon steel is cost-effective.
- A little carbon steel can go a long way due to its strength.
- Safety:
- Steel, including carbon steel, is safe to handle and work with.
