What is the Difference Between Hot-Rolled and Cold-Rolled Steel?

Indianapolis Steel Recycling 317-244-0700

Indianapolis Steel Recycling 317-244-0700

In the metal buying industry, the common question of hot and cold-rolled steel often arises. Buyers want to know the difference between these two types of steel, as well as, the differences between the manufacturing and galvanization processes. Knowing this information puts sellers and buyers in a position to make a more educated decision. There are some basic fluctuations between the two types of metal, regarding the make-up and manufacturing process. Continue reading to learn the difference between hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel.

Hot Rolling

Hot-rolled metal goes through a mill process called hot rolling. During this process, steel is rolled in temperatures higher than steel’s re-crystallization temperatures (usually above 1700 Degrees Fahrenheit!) to achieve easier malleability and ductility. This also allows steel to be manufactured in large sizes for commercial and industrial uses. Since the manufacturing process of hot-rolled steel does not require reheating of the metal, production costs are lower, making hot-rolled steel cheaper than cold-rolled steel.

However, hot malleable metal eventually cools, and when it does, it also shrinks a bit, making final dimensions harder to control. This is one reason why hot-rolled steel is generally used in construction applications that do not require specific shapes and capacities (i.e. railroad tracks and I-beams).

Cold Rolling

Cold-rolled steel is basically the exact same as hot-rolled steel, but with the addition of further processing. The hot-rolled steel is taken to cold reduction mills for room-temperature cooling; and then the steel is put through a galvanization and/or tempers rolling process to harden and strengthen it. Cold-rolled steel allows for more dimension-control capabilities, as well as, a wider range of surface finishes.

If you own scrap steel sheet metal or other steel equipment, sell it to your local scrap metal recycling center for cash on the spot! Recycle all types of steel, including carbon, stainless, alloy, and more. Or sell items that contain high traces of steel, such as auto parts, junk cars, electronics, construction equipment, water crafts, motorcycles, and more!

Indianapolis Metal Recycling Services

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Call Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 to recycle metal in Indianapolis, Indiana. We pay top-dollar for all types of steel and items containing steel; including junk cars, appliances, power tools, construction equipment, boats, jet skis, ATVs, and more. We offer free quotes and current market prices for metal. Call 317-244-0700 to sell your scrap metal in Indianapolis, IN today!

How to Prevent Rust Formation on Metal

Metal Recycling Center 317-244-0700

Metal Recycling Center 317-244-0700

Rust is a type of corrosion that causes a buildup of reddish orange to brown-like discoloration on metal and metal objects. When iron and oxygen in the air mix, and moisture is introduced, rust is created in due course. And rust can be highly detrimental to the metal it forms on. If left untreated, rust can cause severe damage and deterioration. This is why prevention is so necessary. It is difficult to remove rust once it forms, but it can be done to some degree. It is better to catch it early on for easier removal and maintenance, than to wait until it reaches a point-of-no-return.

Stainless steel and weathering steels are the two metals that are virtually rust-resistant, but still require regular maintenance and care. Continue reading to learn four effective methods to manage, remove, and prevent rust formation on metal.

Galvanization

Galvanization is a process that applies a type of sealant on metal to protect it from natural wear and tear, like rust. It involves coating metal with an outer layer of metallic zinc by means of electroplating or hot-dip galvanizing. The zinc stops any substances, like moisture and oxygen, to penetrate the metal. This reduces rust formation and preserves the structural integrity of metal.

Paints and Lacquers

Organic coatings like paints and oil-based lacquers are inexpensive and easy to apply. Almost anyone above the age of 8 can figure out how to apply a paint brush to an object, which makes it a great family activity! Organic coatings protect metal from rust formation by blocking moisture and oxygen. It takes a few coats to get a durable result, but it works well and is easily affordable.

Powder Coatings

Powder coatings are a common application for rust prevention and metal protection. The types of powder coating materials include nylon, epoxy, vinyl, urethane, acrylic, and polyester. They are typically applied by means of electrostatic spray, to evenly coat the object in a thin layer of powder. The powder layer is then heated to form a thin film around the object.

Routine Maintenance

The most effective way to prevent rust is by routine maintenance and care. As soon as rust begins to form, use a knife or razor blade to gently scrape it away layer by layer. Although it may take a while, if you keep at it slowly through each lawyer, you can remove almost all of the rust. Follow up with a mild dish detergent and clean water mix, and the rust should be virtually unnoticeable.

If you have metal objects that are past the point of no return in terms of rust and deterioration, consider scrap metal recycling! You can do something positive for the environment and make room for new stuff if you simply donate all of your junk metal to a scrap metal recycling center. Some companies even pay cash-on-the-spot for junk cars and scrap metal!

Zore’s Recycling

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Call Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 to sell your scrap metal and junk cars in Indianapolis. We pay cash for sheet metal, recyclable metals, cars and trucks, appliances, electronics, tools, construction equipment, and much more. For junk vehicles and large pieces, we offer free haul-away services! Call 317-244-0700 to learn more about scrap metal recycling in Indianapolis, IN today.