Hiiliterästä

Hiiliteräs is a term used in metallurgy to describe steel with a carbon content that significantly influences its mechanical properties. The term "hiiliteräs" itself is Finnish, translating directly to "carbon steel." In general classification, steels are categorized by their carbon content, and carbon steels represent a broad group where carbon is the primary alloying element.

The properties of hiiliteräs vary greatly depending on the specific carbon percentage. Low-carbon steels, typically containing less than 0.25% carbon, are ductile, malleable, and easily welded. They are commonly used for structural components, car bodies, and general fabrication. Medium-carbon steels, with carbon content between 0.25% and 0.60%, offer a good balance of strength and ductility. They can be heat-treated to achieve higher hardness and strength, making them suitable for shafts, gears, and connecting rods. High-carbon steels, containing more than 0.60% carbon, are very hard and strong but less ductile. They are often used for tools, springs, and cutting implements where wear resistance is paramount.

The processing of hiiliteräs involves various heat treatments such as annealing, normalizing, quenching, and tempering to achieve desired microstructures and properties. The manufacturing processes are well-established, making hiiliteräs a widely available and cost-effective material for numerous industrial applications. Its versatility and mechanical performance have secured its place as a foundational material in modern manufacturing.