Structural Steel FAQs
What is structural steel, and how is it commonly used?
Structural steel is a carbon steel, meaning that it contains anywhere from 0.05% to 2.1% carbon in the alloy composition. This makes it more cost-effective, lighter, and stronger than other building materials. These characteristics are ideal for a variety of applications including architecture and building construction, shipbuilding, heavy equipment, marine piers, and more.
How strong is structural steel?
Steel has the greatest strength-to-weight ratio of any commonly used building material (although yield and tensile strength vary by grade). Structural steel’s strength can be measured using the Charpy impact test.
Is stainless steel stronger than structural steel?
Carbon/structural steel has a higher iron content than stainless steel, which makes it harder and stronger than most stainless steel alloys. Carbon steel is typically more affordable than stainless steel as well, due to the expensive alloying elements used to created stainless steel (like chromium and nickel).
What are the common shapes of structural steel?
The most popular steel shapes for structural applications are beams, angles, channels, tubing, and round or square bars. We stock huge inventories of these shapes, as well as less common sections of round tubing and MC channels.
Can I purchase non-standard dimensions and lengths?
Yes, Service Steel Warehouse offers production sawing and also flame cut plates to size. Our sales teams will help provide you with the products and services needed to meet the specifications for your project.
What grade steel is structural steel?
Steel grades will vary depending on the shape and application, but A36, A572, and A588 are the most popular ASTM codes for structural steel. For example, we offer both A36 and A572 for our mill plates because of their low carbon content and strong weldability.
How do I select the appropriate grade for my project?
When selecting a steel grade for your project, it’s important to consider strength, corrosion resistance, cost, and recommended uses. For any grade questions, please call our team of experts for additional guidance.
Where to buy structural steel near you?
Service Steel has several locations across the country to get you the steel products you need, on schedule. We work with our sales representatives in Texas, Louisiana, and Indiana are here to help minimize transfer delays and lead times.
