Do you wish to have Carbon Steel Plates or Alloy Steel Plates for your next project?
Selection of the appropriate steel type for your next project is one of the most important decisions you need to take right now. However, before you go into selecting between different grades of steel, the first step is to make the right choice between Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel. This article very well explains the main difference between both steel types and helps you make the right selection.
What’s the main difference between the two?
Both carbon steel and alloy steel plates are widely used, but they differ mainly in composition, strength, flexibility, corrosion resistance, and cost. Let’s understand each one in detail—
Composition –The most basic difference is what they are made of. Carbon steel mainly contains iron and carbon. On the other hand, alloy steel includes iron, carbon, plus additional alloying elements like chromium, nickel, molybdenum, vanadium, etc. These added elements in alloy steel bring out specific mechanical and chemical properties which carbon steel may lack.
Strength & Flexibility –When we compare the mechanical strength and flexibility, then alloy steel performs well due to the added alloying materials. It offers higher tensile strength, better wear resistance, and can be designed for extreme applications. Whereas carbon steel is strong too, especially in higher carbon grades, but not as tough or flexible as alloy steel. Low carbon steel is softer but more ductile and easy to work with.
Corrosion Resistance –Corrosion resistance is another major factor that separates the two. Carbon steel does not have high corrosion resistance and may rust when exposed to moisture or chemicals. Alloy steel performs better in such conditions due to the presence of chromium or nickel. This makes alloy steel more suitable for harsh environments or applications where corrosion resistance is necessary.
Weldability & Workability –Carbon steel, especially low-carbon steel, is much easier to weld and fabricate. It is also easier to cut, bend, and drill. However, alloy steel, depending on its composition, might require special welding techniques or pre-heating, making the process more technical. So if your project requires heavy welding or forming, carbon steel is more suitable.
Cost –When it comes to cost, carbon steel is generally more affordable compared to alloy steel. This is due to the additional alloying elements used in the making of alloy steel, which increases its price. If you have a tight budget, carbon steel plates can be a more economical option. However, if performance and durability matter more, then spending extra on alloy steel is worth it.
Based on all these important points, you can now make a better decision whether your project needs Carbon Steel Plates or Alloy Steel Plates.
We deal in various types of Carbon Steel Plates and Alloy Steel Plates available in different grades and sizes.