What is the Difference Between Hot Rolled (HR) & Cold Rolled (CR) Steel?

18 Mar.,2024

 

Hot rolling, the process used to make hot rolled steel, involves rolling steel at high temperatures (typically over 1700˚F). These high temperatures are above steel’s recrystallization temperature, allowing the steel to be easily shaped, formed, and made in larger sizes. As it cools, hot rolled steel tends to shrink non-uniformly, giving less control on the size and shape of the finished product when compared to cold rolled steel.

Characteristics of Hot Rolled Steel

Hot rolled steel tends to have a scaly finish which can be removed by pickling, grinding, or sand-blasting. This steel is essentially normalized, meaning free from internal stresses that can arise from quenching or work-hardening processes, because it is allowed to cool at room temperature. Other properties may include:

  • Slightly rounded edges and corners for plate products (due to shrinkage and less precise finishing)
  • Slight distortions
  • More malleable and able to be turned into various shapes
  • Increased ductility and toughness

Advantages of Hot Rolled Steel

Hot rolled steel tends to be cheaper than cold rolled steel because it is manufactured without any delays in the process and does not require reheating like cold rolled steel. It is also essentially normalized as it is allowed to cool at room temperature; this means it’s free from internal stresses that can arise from quenching or work-hardening processes.

Applications of Hot Rolled Steel

One of the many differences between hot and cold rolled steel is price. Hot rolled steel tends to be cheaper than cold rolled steel because it is manufactured without any delays in the process and does not require reheating like cold rolled steel. It can be used in applications where precise shapes and tolerances are not required, such as:

  • Structural Components (Railroad Tracks, I-Beams, Sheet Metal)
  • Agricultural Equipment
  • Metal Buildings
  • Stampings
  • Automotive Frames

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