Different types of steel used in construction works
In the construction industry, steel has been used as one of the crucial components because of its higher strength, durability and flexibility. In this context, it is important to choose the right type of steel for the construction work. In India, there is a variety of steel grades available, each of which offers different properties.
Each grade of steel is suitable for specific applications. On the basis of the composition and characteristics, the steel grades have been classified into different types and have been created for different uses.
Discuss the different types of steels and their popular grades used in construction work in the Indian standard
Different types of steel and their grades have been used in the Indian construction industry.
Carbon steel
Carbon steel has been widely used in the construction industry due to its strength and hardness, and it is also economical. The carbon steel has a lower count of carbon, but still makes it stronger, counteracting its ductility. The carbon steel can be classified into different types, which are:
Low Carbon Steel: In this type of carbon steel, the carbon content ranges between 0.05% to 0.25%. The low-carbon steel has been used in structural applications, including beams and columns. This type of carbon steel is flexible enough to shape and weld easily.
Medium Carbon Steel: The medium carbon steel has been created with a carbon content range between 0.25%-0.60%. The medium carbon steel has higher strength and hardness than the low carbon steel, although it is not as flexible as the low carbon steel.
High Carbon Steel: The high carbon steel contains the highest proportion of carbon as compared to the low carbon steel and medium carbon steel. The carbon content of the high carbon steel ranges between 0.60%-1.4%, which helps to produce a very hard and brittle material to a certain degree.
Discuss the popular carbon steel grades in the Indian standard
On the basis of the Indian standard, the carbon steel is available in two grades, which are as follows:
1. IS2062 Grade B: This carbon steel grade has been used in structural applications and general construction.
2. C45: This type of carbon steel grade has been used in engineering applications, like machinery or tool-making, due to its toughness.
Stainless steel
The stainless steel has the ability to resist corrosion, and it helps to provide an aesthetic appearance. In the stainless steel, a minimum of 10.5% chromium has been used, which helps to protective layer to prevent rust. Due to this quality of erosion tolerance, stainless steel has been widely used in the building industry in coastal areas and interior fittings.
Discuss the popular stainless steel grades in the Indian standard
1. 304 grade stainless steel: This stainless steel grade has been used in the areas of railings and architectural finishes, which are open to the natural elements.
2. 316 grade stainless steel: This stainless steel grade includes molybdenum, which enhances the corrosion resistance properties mainly in the salty surroundings.
Alloy steel
The alloy steel has been produced by adding manganese, nickel, or chromium to carbon steel, and this composition adds more strength, toughness and heat resistance capability.
Discuss the popular alloy steel grades in the Indian standard
1. EN24: This alloy steel grade has been used in heavy-duty applications due to its higher strength and toughness.
2. IS 6917: This alloy steel grade has higher strength and has been used in industrial and commercial buildings.
Mild steel
The mild steel is easily available and low in cost.
Discuss the popular mild steel grades in the Indian standard
1. IS2062 Grade A and B: This mild steel grade has been used for structural applications, including columns and beams in the building structure.
2. Fe 250, Fe 275, and Fe 410: This mild steel grade has higher strength and is easy to fabricate.
Importance of choosing the right steel grades for the construction work
Meeting strength requirements
The different steel grades used in the construction work have different strength levels. For example, alloy steel and high-carbon steel have been used for heavy-duty structures, which can resist a large amount of load and stress.
Corrosion resistance feature
The stainless steel has the ability to resist rust; as a result, it has been used in construction structures in humid and coastal areas. For the general construction activities, mild steel has been used due to its lower expense and higher adaptability.
Provide flexibility in design
The different steel grades can be used for the creative and revolutionary designs of the building structure.
To learn more, watch the following video tutorial.
Video Source: Civil Engineer
Enhanced sustainability
The different grades of steel used in the construction work can be recycled; thus, it has been assumed to be a more environmentally friendly material used in the construction work.
