Whether it is working with metal in the garage or around the house, if you have a knack for DIY projects and a little experience, there is a good chance that working with sheet metal will be something you do on occasion. Working with sheet metal can be easy or complex depending on the type of metal you choose and there is no limit to the different choices. However, one form of metal you find at the local metal supply store will likely provoke some questions: cold-rolled steel. Here is a quick look at a few of the most common questions about cold rolled steel and the answers you will want to know before you choose this metal for your next project.
What exactly is cold-rolled steel?
Cold-rolled steel, also sometimes referenced as cold-formed steel, is steel metal material that has been through a specific formulation process to make it more resilient and durable for certain applications. Cold-rolled steel is most often used by DIYers in the form of sheet metal, but in industrial settings, cold rolled steel may be formed into beams for building projects or used for construction as an array of formed metal pieces, from studs and floor joists to columns and decking panels.
What are the advantages of cold-rolled steel sheeting?
There are a handful of advantages that come along with cold-rolled steel sheeting because of the way it is formed. A few advantages of this versatile material include:
- increased yield strength
- increased torsional strength
- increased resiliency to surface wear
- boosted surface density
- range of size and shape offerings for various project needs
Can cold rolled steel be welded the same as other metals?
Cold-rolled steel is an excellent material choice in applications involving welding. This material rarely requires any form of pre-weld heating, which can be necessary with other steel components to achieve an even weld. Plus, the resulting welded joints of cold-rolled steel usually turn out to be uniform in form because of the density of the surface texture that does not break down during the welding process and exposure to high heat levels.
The bottom line is, cold -olled steel is a highly versatile material that finds its way into an array of projects. If you would like to know more about cold-rolled steel, make sure you talk to the metal supplier, such as A & C Metals - Sawing, in your area for more information.
