Steel can be distinguished in a variety of ways, mainly including the following methods:
Color and magnetism: Different types of steel may differ in color. For example, stainless steel is usually silvery white, while carbon steel may be black or gray. In addition, stainless steel and other steels can also be distinguished by checking magnetism. Austenitic stainless steel is non-magnetic, while martensitic and ferritic stainless steels are weakly magnetic and can be detected with ordinary magnets.
Surface texture: The surface texture of different steels may also be different. For example, the surface of carbon steel may have obvious grinding marks, while stainless steel usually has a smoother surface.
Steel number or logo: Steel usually has a corresponding steel number or logo, which contains information such as the type of steel, chemical composition, etc. By looking at these logos, different types of steel can be quickly distinguished.
Purpose and performance: The type of steel is determined based on its specific purpose and required performance. For example, stainless steel may be selected for applications that require high strength and corrosion resistance; while alloy steel may be considered for applications that require higher hardness and wear resistance.
Steel can be classified in various ways, and common classification standards include:
By chemical composition: It can be divided into carbon steel and alloy steel. Carbon steel can be divided into low carbon steel, medium carbon steel and high carbon steel according to the carbon content; alloy steel can be divided into low alloy steel, medium alloy steel and high alloy steel according to the total content of alloy elements.
By use: It can be divided into structural steel, tool steel, special performance steel, etc. Structural steel is mainly used in construction, machinery manufacturing and other fields; tool steel is often used to manufacture various tools and molds; special performance steel includes stainless steel, heat-resistant steel and wear-resistant steel, etc.
By forming method: It can be divided into forged steel, cast steel, hot-rolled steel and cold-drawn steel, etc. These steels have different shapes and properties after different processing techniques.
