Hot Rolled vs Cold Rolled Steel
Authors
9 minutes read
26 Jul 2024
Choosing the right type of steel for your metalworking project could be the difference between success and failure. A key decision you’ll face is whether to use hot rolled or cold rolled steel.
These production methods create steel with slightly different properties, which could affect their suitability for your project. Read on as we explore the properties, advantages, and ideal uses of both hot and cold rolled steel.
Article in Brief
Hot rolled steel is a type of steel that has been heated above its recrystallisation temperature, allowing it to be easily formed into specific sizes.
Hot rolled steel has many useful properties such as enhanced formability and low production costs.
Cold rolled steel is created with additional processing steps at room temperature.
Cold rolled steel is typically stronger, more durable, and has a cleaner finish.
To choose the right kind of steel for your project, you should consider specific requirements such as budget, formability, precision, and the material’s exact application.
If you’re looking for the perfect kind of steel for your project, choose a knowledgeable distributor like The Metal Store.
What is Hot Rolled Steel?
Hot rolling is the name of the process used to create hot rolled steel. It involves rolling steel at high temperatures – usually over 1700°F (926°C). By heating the metal above its recrystallisation temperature, it can be easily shaped, formed, and made in larger sizes.
The main properties of hot rolled steel:
Formability – As mentioned above, one of the key properties of hot rolled steel is its enhanced formability. The high temperatures make the steel more malleable, allowing it to be easily shaped and formed into structural components.
Surface finish – Because of the high-temperature processing and cooling, hot rolled steel usually has a rough, scaly surface. This scale is an oxide layer that forms during the cooling process and can be removed with surface treatments.
Dimensional tolerance – Hot rolled steel has looser dimensional tolerances compared to cold rolled steel. This means that it can have variations in thickness and shape.
Lack of internal stress – Hot rolled steel is gradually cooled, meaning the material can normalise its structure without internal stress. This makes it strong and durable.
Low cost – The hot rolling process is much less complex than cold rolling, making hot rolled steel a cost-effective choice. This makes it a good option for projects where budget constraints are a worry.
Hot rolled steel applications:
As a result of its properties, hot rolled steel is often used in the construction of buildings, bridges, and other large structures.
It is also commonly used in the automotive industry, specifically in frames and chassis, as well as in the production of heavy-duty machinery and industrial components.
What is Cold Rolled Steel?
Cold rolling is a metal-forming process that involves further processing hot rolled steel at room temperature. It begins with passing the steel through rollers to achieve more precise dimensions and a smoother surface finish.
By processing the steel below its recrystallisation temperature, cold rolled steel gains enhanced mechanical properties and a superior, smooth finish.
The main properties of cold rolled steel:
Precision – An important advantage of cold rolled steel is its tight dimensional tolerances. The cold rolling method allows for accuracy over thickness and shape. This makes it a solid choice for projects that require high precision.
Surface finish – Another difference between hot rolled steel and cold rolled steel is the finish. Cold rolled steel is usually smooth with a polished surface, free from the rough scale found on hot rolled steel. This refined finish is achieved through the cold rolling process, as well as additional annealing and tempering.
Strength – Cold rolled steel is much stronger than hot rolled steel due to work hardening during the rolling process. This increased toughness makes it a good choice for applications that require extra durability.
Surface quality – The superior surface quality of cold rolled steel makes it an attractive choice for those who require a high-quality finish. You’ll find cold rolled steel used in many appliances, automotive parts, and furniture.
Cold rolled steel applications:
As a result of its precise dimensions and smooth surface finish, cold rolled steel is used in many applications. You’ll find it most commonly in the automotive industry, appliances, furniture, and electronics.
Cold rolled steel is also used in the production of precision instruments and the construction of high-level metal fixtures. Its long list of positive properties makes it a staple across various advanced manufacturing sectors.
Hot Rolled Steel vs Cold Rolled Steel – Which is Best for You?
Choosing between hot rolled and cold rolled steel for your metalworking project depends on many different factors.
You should first consider the specific requirements of your application, including budget and the desired properties of your final product. Here are some key things to keep in mind to decide which is best for you:
Precision and tolerance – If your project requires exact dimensions and tight tolerances, cold rolled steel is the better choice. It’s superior for applications where precise measurements are important, such as in the automotive and electronic industries.
Formability – If the project you’re working on requires components with complex shapes, hot rolled steel is a good choice due to its enhanced formability.
Budget considerations – Hot rolled steel is the better option for lower budgets. With a simple and fast production process, it is much more cost-effective.
Strength & durability – If your project requires materials with high strength and durability, cold rolled steel is the better choice. It is ideal for high-stress applications such as structural components or precision instruments.
Find hot and cold rolled steel with The Metal Store
Searching for hot or cold rolled steel? The Metal Store is a leading UK-based supplier and stockist. We offer a range of steel products, including bright mild steel, galvanised steel, mild steel stainless steel and more.
With free UK shipping on all orders above £99 + VAT, your order will reach you within 1-3 days. We also offer unlimited free cutting on many of our products, with bulk discounts for large orders. To get more information, email our team at [email protected]
