Carbon Steel is the most corrosive and therefore, the least expensive of the three most commonly perforated metals. Produced into coil form by roller leveling to a desired thickness either once while the steel is still hot or again after it has cooled, each of the Carbon Steel types listed below are referred to as either Hot Rolled or Cold Rolled (ex. Cold Rolled Commercial Steel). The difference in processes result in products that differ in terms of cost, quality, and mechanical properties. In short, Hot Rolled is typically less expensive and produced in thicker gauges 7-16, whereas, Cold Rolled provides tighter tolerances, better surface finishes, and while it can be produced in practically any gauge, it is most readily available in thinner gauges 14-28.
Because carbon steel is susceptible to corrosion, it is typically used in either unexposed applications or protected with a coating. Coatings such as paint and powder are applied after perforating and completely protect the material. Zinc based coated metals (i.e. Galvanized, Galvannealed, etc.) on the other hand, are produced and supplied as such from the mill and may not completely protect the material where its carbon core is exposed during the perforating process.
Commonly Perforated Carbon Steel Types
Commercial Steel (HR, CR, GALV) is a low cost steel that has good drawing, forming, and welding qualities, moderate strength, but is subject to strains, fluting, and breaks due to aging. To reduce the effects caused by aging, Drawing Steel is recommended.
Drawing Steel (HR, CR)
A steel with a greater degree of ductility and uniformity of properties than Commercial Steel, Drawing Steel provides improved performance during manufacturing. This type is recommended for use when stretcher strains or fluting during fabrication are objectionable and/or consistency of performance is important.
Forming Steel (GALV)
A steel with lower strength and higher elongation than Commercial Steel, Forming Steel is recommended when stresses from forming either crack or weaken Commercial Steel.
NOTE: Unless specified by the customer, Diamond Manufacturing Company reserves the right to quote and/or supply either Hot Rolled or Cold Rolled Steel – depending on what is available, economical, and commonly perforated given the size and application. If a steel type is not specified, Diamond Manufacturing Company will use Commercial Steel, which is the most commonly perforated carbon steel for pricing and production.
