Mild steel comes in many flavors. At its core, it’s all steel, but the differences in surface characteristics are where things get interesting. While all types of mild steel can be blackened, each produces a unique finish that sets it apart.
Hot Rolled Steel
This is the classic steel you probably imagine when you think of structural metal. It’s available in various forms like structural shapes, pipe, sheet, and plate. Hot rolled steel starts with a bluish or blackish surface that often looks a bit rough or dirty. However, with proper cleaning and finishing, it can transform into something sleek and visually appealing.
Pickled and Oiled Steel
Think of this as a more refined version of hot rolled steel. During processing, the mill scale is removed through pickling, leaving a cleaner surface. The result is a more uniform finish compared to hot rolled steel, with less texture and fewer color variations. If you’re looking for those unique color shifts, though, we can work with you to bring that character back.
Cold Rolled Steel
As the name suggests, this steel is processed without heat, which means no mill scale to deal with. Its smooth, uniform surface makes it an excellent choice for precise fabrication projects. Plus, it produces a beautifully consistent dark finish when blackened, perfect for a clean and modern look.