Terästyypit

Terästyypit refers to the classification of steel based on its chemical composition and properties. Steel is an alloy primarily composed of iron and carbon, with small amounts of other elements that significantly influence its characteristics. The carbon content is a key factor, generally ranging from 0.002% to 2.14% by weight. Lower carbon steels are more ductile and malleable, while higher carbon steels are harder and stronger but more brittle.

Carbon steels form the largest category, further divided into low-carbon (mild steel), medium-carbon, and high-carbon steels. Low-carbon steel, with less than 0.3% carbon, is commonly used in construction, automotive parts, and general manufacturing due to its ease of fabrication and weldability. Medium-carbon steel, containing 0.3% to 0.6% carbon, offers a balance of strength and ductility and is used for gears, shafts, and railway tracks. High-carbon steel, with over 0.6% carbon, is very hard and strong, making it suitable for tools, springs, and blades.

Alloy steels are carbon steels with other elements added to enhance specific properties. Chromium, nickel, molybdenum, vanadium, and tungsten are common alloying elements. Stainless steel, a prominent example of alloy steel, contains at least 10.5% chromium, which provides excellent corrosion resistance. Other alloy steels are designed for increased strength, hardness, toughness, wear resistance, or high-temperature performance. Tool steels, for instance, are high-carbon alloy steels formulated for exceptional hardness and heat resistance, used in cutting tools and dies. The specific combination of alloying elements and heat treatments allows for a vast range of steel types tailored to diverse industrial applications.