Comparing Hot and Cold Rolled Steel

02 Feb.,2024

 

This article was updated Feb. 3, 2023. It was originally published June 7, 2016.

Hot and cold rolled steel are two common types of steel. Engineers need to know the difference between them to turn out the best products at the best prices possible.

So how do they differ?

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The basic difference between these two steels is how they are processed. Hot rolling refers to processing done with heat, while cold rolling is done at or near room temperature. This difference affects overall performance, but it has nothing to do with the steel’s formal specifications and grades, which are a function of metallurgical composition and performance ratings. Steels of different grades and specifications can be hot or cold rolled, including basic carbon and other steel alloys.

Hot Rolled Steel

Hot rolled steel is roll-pressed at temperatures over 1,700°F, which are above most steels’ re-crystallization temperatures. Hot pressing makes steel easier to form and work with.

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