Discover How Steel Is Made

When you glance at the periodic table, you'll spot various metallic elements like copper, nickel, aluminum, iron, and chromium. However, there's no block specifically designated for steel. Ever wondered why?

What is Steel?

Unlike other metals, steel isn't an element by itself. It's an alloy primarily composed of iron, combined with carbon and sometimes other elements. Pure iron tends to be too soft and reactive for practical everyday use. However, adding even a small amount of carbon transforms it into a durable and strong material. While we often categorize steel as a distinct metal, it's essential to recognize that iron forms the backbone of most steels, with some steel compositions consisting of over 99 percent iron.

In essence, steel is a refined, versatile product derived from iron. To delve deeper into its origins and elemental composition, read on.

The Production Process

Iron ranks as the second most abundant metal in the Earth’s crust, following aluminum. Yet, the iron extracted from underground mines is never entirely pure. Due to its high reactivity with oxygen, iron is typically found in the form of iron oxides in rocky ores beneath the Earth’s surface. Extracting pure iron involves melting down these ores to remove impurities and restore its elemental purity.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, approximately one billion pounds of iron are extracted globally each year. Notably, China leads the production with over 60 percent, whereas the United States contributes about 3 percent.

Composition of Steel

Steel's versatility stems from the ability to adjust its composition by varying the amounts of carbon and other elements. Here are some of the most common types of iron alloys known as steel:

• Carbon steel: This basic form of steel contains iron and a small percentage of carbon. More than 80 percent of steel produced daily falls into this category.

• Stainless steel: Besides carbon, stainless steel incorporates chromium and nickel. These additions impart exceptional resistance to corrosion, making stainless steel highly desirable in various applications.

• Tool steel: Enhanced with elements like nickel, tungsten, and molybdenum, tool steel is renowned for its robustness and suitability for cutting tools and molds.

• Alloy steel: By incorporating elements such as manganese, copper, vanadium, and silicon, alloy steels achieve greater hardness, durability, and resistance to corrosion.

Choose Steel with Confidence from Tampa Steel & Supply

Now equipped with knowledge about steel's origins and elemental components, you're prepared to embark on your next construction project using this resilient and versatile iron alloy. For all your metal and steel requirements, trust Tampa Steel & Supply. Contact us today to explore our range of high-quality products and find the perfect steel for your needs.

For inquiries, call 813-241-2511 or email Support@SteelandPipeSupply.com. Visit us at 4200 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605. With over 52 years in the industry, Steel and Pipe Supply is your trusted partner in metal solutions.