Introduction to steel and its applications

Posted by Andy on March 7th, 2022

Steel is an alloy made up of iron and other alloying elements like chromium. It makes steel tensile and strong, many other elements can be added to make it rust and corrosion-free. It is the most useful metal nowadays; hence it has got enormous features and is strong enough. From households to industries, we all need steel. Because of its strength, it is used in making tools, infrastructures, weapons, ships, trains, cars, machines, electrical appliances, etc.

Ferroalloy - the heart of steelmaking

Ferroalloys are a combination of iron and other elements. They are popularly known in steel industries since they are the key element in steelmaking. It works as a deoxidizer and makes steel strong and durable. It has vast uses in other industries too. Though it is made up of iron and other components, it does not have any properties of iron. Iron alloys offer diversified functionalities. Different manufacturing units need these elements for their purposes. Among all, steel industries have an enormous demand for this constituent. It is because of its exclusive features. To make steel strong, robust, and anti-corrosive, ferroalloys are requisite. It works as a deoxidizer and makes steel rust-free. While iron gets rusted easily, steel possesses a corrosion-free nature. Therefore, steel industries across the planet have an excessive demand for ferromanganese, ferrosilicon, silicon manganese, and other iron alloys.

Uses of steel in Industries:

• Transportation: Steel is a relatively flexible metal. Engineering steel is a type of steel which properties like individual strength, ductility, and elasticity to help manufacture vehicles. 50% weight of a car is due to steel. Depending on the vehicle part, different types of steel may be used. Steelmaking does not consume much energy and emits less CO2 as compared to other metals.
• Packaging: Steel is widely used in storing things for over 200 years. It protects the inside contents from light, heat, air, etc., and prevents them from getting damaged. It is relatively a lightweight option as compared to other metals.
• Construction: Almost the majority of steel is used in construction. Building structures with a steel framework can easily be constructed at low prices. It can also be moulded into various shapes for different uses. The steel used in construction is surface treated or alloyed to withstand humid environments. Steel is the reason skyscrapers increased in number in the 20^th
• Healthcare industry: The medical industry is very specific about its requirements when it comes to materials used for making tools, storage, piping, equipment, and other components that allow doctors to keep patients healthy. It is used to make the following things:
• Wheelchairs
• IV stand
• Surgical instruments such as Scalpels and clamps
• Orthopaedic implants
• Artificial heart valves
• Prostheses
• Bone fixing equipment such as screws and plates
• Needles and syringes
• Medical beds
• Sinks and bowls
• Catheters
• Sensor probes

Key stainless steel traits:

1. Its corrosion-free nature makes it safe to use in sensitive operations and also makes the equipment durable and long-lasting.
2. Stainless steel can withstand extreme temperatures, therefore making it safe and easy to sterilize at high temperatures and can be used in different environments.
3. It has a smooth surface and is easy to clean, making it convenient for making tubing, storage tools and even medical beds.

How to choose the best ferroalloy in India

Since many fraudulent companies have mushroomed here and there, you need to be aware and do your research before buying. The company must be a certified and authentic company and should be experienced over decades. It should have a strong and expertise labour force because the quality of alloys depends on them. A company with modern machinery will provide you with modern alloys. Start your online research now and grab the best bulk ferroalloys!