While some people may use the term iron and steel interchangeably, these metals couldn’t be more different. For one, steel is much more valuable. A ton of steel has a traded price of $4,600, while iron ore, on the same market index, sold at a mere $145.
Also, the composition of the metals is different, and what products you’ll find in iron and steel are rarely interchangeable.
In a historical sense, both metals have contributed to the evolution of civilization and culture. Without these materials and their development, people would be unable to create the significant modern edifices that grace our world.
In this article, we’ll discuss the difference between iron and steel and how the iron and steel industries have helped propel modern construction.
What is Iron?
First, it is important to emphasize that iron is an element and an essential mineral. It’s a ductile and lustrous metal with a silver appearance when unearthed.
Iron’s symbol on the periodic table of elements is Fe, and the element has an atomic number of 26.
Although iron was used as one of humankind’s first tool materials, the element is relatively brittle in its raw form. Iron can be hammered into sheets or different forms.
Like many other mined metals, you can form iron into wire or sheets. However, one drawback to iron as a decorative or practical tool is that the element oxidizes when exposed to water or moist air.
What is Steel?
Steel is an iron alloy, meaning that iron ore is smelted and mixed with other minerals to create different variations. Carbon steel and alloy steel are the two most common types.
Carbon steel is made up of nearly 1% carbon. It is the most common type of steel and represents about 80% of the steel manufactured today.
On the other hand, alloy steels include nickel, chromium, copper, silicon, and vanadium. The metal composition changes as the use of the steel differs, but all the alloys have some carbon and iron.
What is Pig Iron?
Iron has other alloys besides steel. These include pig iron, wrought iron, and cast iron. These types of iron have carbon added to make them less soft and brittle.
Pig iron is a basic form of iron alloy used for simple structures. Cast iron has a high carbon infusion and is used for cookery or structural supports.
The last form of an iron alloy is wrought iron, which is softer than cast iron and easily molded when exposed to heat.
Benefits of Steel
With that stated, steel is still king in the products we make and buy. Because of this, you see steel alloys in everything from building materials to kitchenware.
Because of steel’s flexibility, durability, and hardness, it is the perfect alloy for manufacturing and consumer goods.
Iron and Steel Industrial Uses
Mining and manufacturing iron and steel are some of the longest-serving industrial professions. Yet, these industries continue to change and evolve.
To find out the latest techniques in iron and steel, talk to one of our experts on their expertise can help you. Contact us today to learn more.