Difference Between Hot and Cold Rolled Steel from Surdex Steel

The Differences between Hot Rolled and Cold Rolled Steel

You need to select the best steel product for your project. For this, you need to have a precise set of requirements and good knowledge of the properties of the different types and subtypes of this metal. Hot rolled and cold rolled steel are among the main options available for industrial projects of various types. Find out how the two compare in order to make the right choice.

Hot Rolled Steel
The metal is rolled at a very high temperature which exceeds the temperature of re-crystallisation of the metal. In this way, it can be shaped and formed more easily. During the cooling process it may shrink, however. This process is called thermal shrinking. Due to it, there may be deviations from the standard size of the manufactured product. The end product has a fairly rough surface as it is covered with carbon scale.

This metal is excellent for welding. It experiences no warping during machining. Given its properties, it is widely used for the making of structural components which are used in the construction and transportation industry. Examples include l-beams, cross sections and railroad tracks.

Cold Rolled Steel
This material is rolled at a temperature which is lower than the one necessary for its re-crystallisation. Usually, it is rolled at close to room temperature. The produced material is strong and has very good surface finish. It normally does not have deviations from the standard size. Even if there are any, they are minimal.

This material can take only a few shapes due to the way in which it is produced. At the same time, it is widely used in machining for its properties. It is extensively used for the making of bars, rods, sheets and strips and smaller structural components.

In order to make a choice between cold rolled and hot rolled steel, you have to define the factors which are important for the fabrication process which you plan.