Cold rolled steel is produced through a rolling metal forming process in which metal stock is passed through one or more pair of rolls to provide uniformity and to reduce the thickness of the metal. If the temperature of the metal being rolled is below its recrystallization temperature, then the process is referred to as cold rolling.
The main difference between cold rolled steel and hot rolled steel is the temperature at which they are formed. Cold rolled steel bar is formed at temperatures that are below that of its recrystallization temperature. In contrast, hot rolled steel is formed above its recrystallization temperature. In the end the application will dictate what type of process will be the most beneficial.
Cold Rolled Steel Characteristics
Cold rolled steel bar has a wide range of beneficial features, including:
More finished surfaces, with closer tolerances.
Bars are true and square, with well-defined edges and corners.
Smooth surfaces are often oily to the touch.
Mechanical Properties of Cold & Hot Rolled Steel
The mechanical properties of steel often depend on their grade, or chemical makeup. For that reason, it is never safe to make assumptions about the mechanical properties of hot rolled vs cold rolled unless they are the same grade. However, as an example the below chart features the chemical properties of 1018 steel and the key differences between the cold and hot rolled versions.
Hot Rolled
Cold Rolled
Tensile Strength
67,000 psi
85,000 psi
Yield Strength
45,000 psi
70,000 psi
Reduction of Area
58
55
Elongation in 2"
36
28
Brinell Hardness
137
167
Cold Rolled Steel Bar Options
M & K Metals has numerous options for your cold rolled steel bar needs, including:
Visit M & K Metal for Your Cold-Rolled Steel Bar Today!
At M & K Metal, you can purchase partial pieces of cold rolled steel bar. Please contact us or request a quote today!
Sample pricing for cold-rolled steel is listed below for informational purposes only. PLEASE CALL US AT 310-327-9011 OR CONTACT US TO CONFIRM CURRENT / CORRECT PRICING.
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