Metal Fabrication – Mild Steel or Stainless Steel: Which is more durable?
Both mild steel and stainless steel are commonly used on all forms of construction in Sydney. However, it is important to understand the performance suitability of both before selecting for your next project.
Mild Steel
Mild Steel is an alloy of iron and approximately 2% carbon. Carbon steel can withstand substantial force before distorting or losing shape.
It is however important to know that majority of hard metals, including carbon, are quite brittle. In the event these metals are subject to prolonged and extreme tensile stress, the potential for cracking or failure is possible.
Mild steel is often used in to make bolts, steel plates, fixtures, and to a lesser extent automobile body parts and panels.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is commonly used to manufacture household items including utensils and taps because it of durability when regularly exposed to moisture or water without rusting.
Stainless steel comprises of carbon, iron and more than 10.5% chromium. The Chromium is essentially a protective layer to prevent rust and corrosion, which is why it is also widely used along coastal areas in Sydney.
Mild Steel vs Stainless Steel
Stainless steel although more expensive to procure is the higher quality and more durable metal when used in construction. The major difference, however, is in terms of wear and corrosion resistance. With high chromium content, stainless steel does not rust but can wear more quickly when used in wear and tear equipment, when compared to mild steel. Mild steel is more robust and more durable and might not wear easily but can corrode and rust when exposed to the exterior elements, so should be selected carefully before being specified as fit for purpose as an exterior element.
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