The hot rolling process has a significant effect on the properties of steel. By heating steel above its recrystallization temperature and then cooling it at room temperature in a process known as normalization, the steel’s microstructure undergoes permanent changes, resulting in enhanced toughness and ductility. This additional ductility makes the metal easy to form and bend.
Hot rolled steel is cost-effective, ductile, tough, and easy to produce quickly. However, the cooling process can leave the final product slightly uneven and smaller than it was during the initial forming process. This makes hot rolled steel ideal for heavy-duty industrial applications.
Some of the most popular applications in different industries include the following:
- Agriculture and mining- Hot rolled steel is frequently used to make equipment components and grouser bars.
- Bridges and Infrastructure Builds- Grid decking and expansion joints can be made from hot rolled steel.
- Hot rolled steel can be used for industrial fasteners and sheet piling connectors.
- Government and defense- Ship deck rails are frequently made from hot rolled steel because of its toughness.
- Material handling- Manufacturers use hot rolled steel for fork truck parts, crane rail joints bars, and tram or elevator railing.
- D-bars, insulated and standard joint bars are made from hot rolled steel.
- Automotive manufacturers use hot rolled steel to make door hinges and truck rims.
- Water Transmission- Pipe couplings and spigot sections can be made from hot rolled steel.
Ultimately, hot rolled steel forms are an excellent choice for projects that require tough but cost-efficient material options.