As you go about the business of construction, there are certain pertinent facts you ought to have at your fingertips. One of such is the density of structural steel. Structural steel is the primary material used during construction. Hence, knowing as much as you can about it will show that you are an expert.
In this article, I will discuss the density of structural steel while also throwing in a few things along the way.
The Density of Structural Steel
The density of structural steel varies from each unique material to the other. However, the acceptable range is from 7, 750 to 8,050kg, which translates to m3(484 and 503lb/ cubic feet), or 7,75 to 8,05g.
There are techniques that you can employ to either increase or decrease the density of structural steel. For decreasing this material, you need only ramp up the temperature surrounding the metal. There is an inverse relationship between the structural steel’s density and the temperature of the surrounding environment. As one increases, the other reduces.
On the other hand, there are two methods for increasing the density of structural steel. The first is known as electroslag remelting, while the other is centrifugal casting with modification.
An increase in the density of structural steel would improve the corrosion resistance of the material.
What is Structural Steel?
Structural steel is generally defined as steel shaped for construction.
Carbon and iron are the twin materials that make up structural steel. You can increase the strength and ductility of the structural steel by improving its carbon content.
The creation of structural steel is pretty straightforward. It involves heating iron till it gets to a relatively high temperature. Thereafter, other materials can be added to get the exact texture of the steel desired.
This process may seem unnaturally long, but that is only because of the nature of iron. Iron typically contains impurities such as carbon. Subjecting it to heat is one way to purify it thoroughly. At the same time, you have to take care to ensure that all of the carbon does not get removed, as it is essential for the steel to be perfect for use.
After the creation of the structural steel, it still has to undergo fabrication before final use. This type of steel is notorious for being malleable. Hence a skilled fabricator or welder could easily beat it into the shape you want.
Properties of Structural Steel
Some of the characteristics of structural steel are as follows:
● Tenacity
This refers to the ability of any material to resist breakage and withstand pressure. Basically, it measures the strength of the steel material.
Structural steel is typically very strong. This explains why it is favored during construction. It can absorb the impact of sudden force or pressure. With time, it expands to accommodate more pressure heaped on it.
● Durability
Another word you can use in place of durability is lifespan/duration. Materials that exist for a long time without substantial changes to their form are said to have great durability.
On its own, structural steel has a long life span. This is also tied to its strength. However, you can also go further to improve the longevity of the material by painting or galvanizing. This prevents rust, a dangerous change that affects steel materials.
● Weldability
This involves the cooling and reshaping of steel materials.
Structural steel is easily weldable. You can create various other items using steel as the parent material.
Conclusion
There is no such thing as knowing too much about any one subject. In the same vein, no knowledge is a waste. Having gone through this article, it is safe to assume that you have a working knowledge of structural steel’s density. You never can tell when this knowledge would come in handy.
