Mild Steel

Mild steel, also known as low-carbon steel, is a type of steel that contains a low amount of carbon. It is a ferrous metal made from iron and carbon, and its affordable price and functional properties make it the most common metal around. It is commonly used in construction and manufacturing due to its affordability, durability, and versatility.

Composition

Because it is not an alloy steel, it does not contain chromium, molybdenum, or other alloying elements. As a result of this unique chemical composition, you’ll find it has different properties from alloy steels.

• Mild steel contains roughly between 0.05% and 0.25% of carbon by weight.
• The carbon content varies depending on the requirements for the steel. Low-carbon steels contain carbon in the range of 0.05 to 0.25%.
• Other elements may be added to improve wear resistance, ultimate tensile strength, and heat resistance.

Physical Properties

Mild steel is a flexible, weldable, machinable material that can be easily cut or formed. It’s important to note that because the material doesn’t contain alloying elements like chromium, it is prone to rust and corrosion.

• High tensile strength
• High impact strength
• Good ductility and weldability
• A magnetic metal due to its ferrite content
• Good malleability with cold-forming possibilities

Applications

Mild steel is widely used in various industries due to its impressive properties like high tensile and impact strength. It can be heat-treated to alter its properties and create additional strength.

Mild steel is widely used in a variety of industries. It is the most common type of steel used all around. Some of the applications of mild steel are construction, infrastructure, tools, automotive body parts, cookware, medical instruments, machinery, and much more.

How is Mild Steel Made?

This material is produced by smelting iron ore in a blast furnace. Carbon is added to the mixture, and impurities are removed. The steel is heated to a temperature of around 2,500°F (1,371°C) and then cooled slowly to room temperature. The slow cooling process allows the carbon atoms to diffuse throughout the iron, creating a uniform mixture of iron and carbon.