Carbon steel, also known as mild steel, typically contains between 0.12% and 2.0% carbon as its primary interstitial alloying constituent. Carbon serves as a hardening agent in the steel-making process, with higher levels of carbon resulting in stronger and harder steel when heat-treated (although it may also lead to decreased ductility). In general, carbon steels with higher carbon levels have lower melting points. By contrast, mild steel contains only a small percentage of carbon.

Mild steel contains only a small amount of carbon and is strong and tough but with quite a high melting point – it is also known as plain-carbon steel.

Mild steel is the most common form of steel due to its low price and huge versatility across a number of applications. Low-carbon steel contains approximately 0.05–0.25% carbon making it malleable and ductile.

Structural Steel

Mild steel is often used when large quantities of steel are needed. Structural steel is a common application.

Here are some common examples of mild steel used for structural purposes:

Parallel Flange Channels

Parallel channelled beams are U-shaped with right angled corners. They come in different sizes, however, the two sides are always the same length and are parallel. They also offer a high strength to weight ratio and have similar uses to angled sections.

Tapered Flange Beams

Taper flange beams are I-shaped sections and are also available in a wide-variety of sizes. In construction these are often used for cross-sections of girders. Though they have quite high resistance ratios, they are not usually recommended when pressure is present along their length as they are not torsion (twisting) resistant.

mild steel

Universal Beam

Universal beams, also known ad I-beams or H-beams, are shaped like their namesake: an ‘I’ when standing upright, and a ‘H’ on their side. Universal beams are usually made of structural steel and are used in construction and civil engineering, among other industries.

Universal Column

Universal beams are also widely used for structural purposes. They are similar to beams and are often called I-beams or H-beams, however, all three sections are equal in length. As their name suggests, they are mainly used for columns, and have fantastic load-bearing capabilities.

These are just a few of the most common types of structural steel. Read more about it here.

If you are considering steel fabrication for any construction purposes and would like a professional opinion, we can help. Our team of experts have the experience and knowledge to answer any of your questions about structural steel and will ensure that you find the best solution to suit your needs. To contact us today, simply call, fax, email for a steel quote or drop by our Brookvale location.