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50+ Important Uses of Steel Explained in Various Industries

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Experts predict that the global steel industry will grow to approximately $1.92 trillion in value in the year 2027. Most steel is used in construction and infrastructure projects. Further, the automotive sector consumes around 12% and 15% steel consumption is in machinery and equipment.

Apart from these major applications, steel is also widely used in several other industries. You can read this simple guide to explore uses of steel.

Table of Contents

Uses of Steel in Daily Life

You can see and use steel in many common items around you. Below are examples of products mostly made of steel.

  • Steel Storage Containers

You can use steel in storage containers to keep items safe and secure. Steel also makes containers strong and durable. It protects your goods from damage. You can use these containers at your home and in industries too.

Steel Storage Containers
Steel Storage Containers

  • Steel Microwave

Steel is widely used to form the outer body and inner parts of the microwave. Due to steel, the microwave can contain heat safely. It also protects you from radiation. This way, it keeps the microwave safe and durable.

  • Screws & Hinges

The items like screws and hinges are made of steel. Because it is strong, durable, resistant to corrosion & rust. You can use steel screws to hold materials tightly in place. Steel hinges support doors and allow smooth movement.

  • Radiators

The engineers also use steel in radiator manufacturing for heating systems. Steel can handle high heat and pressure well. It allows heat to spread evenly. Further, a steel radiator cools down slowly. Hence, you can stay warm for a long time.

  • Water and Garden Features

You will see steel in many garden and water features. For example: steel is used in fountains, garden benches, trellises, gates and plant stands. It is also used in water tanks, pipes plus decorative frames.

  • Drinking Bottles

Well, steel is used in drinking bottles to keep water safe and fresh. Because it does not leak or break easily. It also keeps your drinks cold or hot for longer. You can carry steel bottles anywhere. Moreover, steel is a more eco-friendly option for bottles as compared to plastic.

Uses of Steel in Construction

Why use steel in construction? Steel is very strong and can hold heavy loads easily. It also supports large buildings, resists fire, wind and bad weather. All these properties make steel ideal to use in construction. Below are major uses of steel in building construction.

  • Steel Frames

Steel is strong and supports walls, roofs & floors. With the use of steel, you can make buildings safe and stable. Frames made of steel can carry heavy weight and last for many years. They are quick to assemble and create a flexible structure. Also, it allows builders to design tall/durable structures for skyscrapers or factories.

  • Pipes and Tubes

Steel is used to make pipes and tubes for water, gas, oil, plumbing and HVAC systems. It is strong and never breaks easily. Pipes made of steel can handle high pressure. That’s why steel made pipes are perfect to carry fluids safely and keep your buildings safe as well.

  • Sheet Products

What are steel plates used for? Steel sheets (corrugated sheets & steel plates) are commonly used in building roofs, walls, floors and panels. They are flat and easy to shape. Moreover, steel sheets protect buildings from weather and damage. So, they last a long time and keep structures safe.

  • Fasteners

Steel fasteners such as bolts, nuts and screws used to hold building parts together. They are strong and do not break easily. With steel fasteners, you can keep structures stable and safe. Most builders trust steel fasteners to make sure walls, roofs, panels and floors stay in place for many years.

  • Temporary Structures

Steel is used to build temporary structures like scaffolding, formwork or event stages. These steel made structures are strong and easy to connect. Also, you can set up and remove steel structures quickly. Steel makes sure these temporary setups stay stable when you work on them.

  • Decorative Elements

You will find many decorative parts of buildings made of steel. These include railings, gates, building facades and screens. It is strong and you can shape into different designs. Steel decorations make your buildings look beautiful and last a long time.

  • Sustainability Initiatives

Steel is important for sustainable construction. Because, you can recycle it many times. Hence, engineers used steel in green and sustainable building projects. When you use steel, it also reduces waste and protects the environment.

  • Structural Sections

Another major use of steel in construction is for building sections. For example: you can use it to make structural sections such as H-beams, I-beams, T-beams, columns and angles. These parts support the weight of buildings/bridges and can hold heavy load easily.

  • Reinforcing Bars

You can use steel reinforcing bars or rebar to strengthen concrete. They make concrete buildings and bridges much stronger. Rebar also makes structures able to resist cracking and bending. It is used in foundations, floors or walls.

Steel in Furniture

Steel is used in various types of furniture. For example: you can see it in chairs, tables, beds, shelves, cabinets, wardrobes and office desks. Steel makes furniture strong and durable. It can hold heavy weight without bend or breakage.

Furthermore, it can resist damage from water and daily use. That means, you can use steel furniture indoors and outdoors. Modern designs mostly use steel for frames and supports to make furniture stylish.

Uses of Steel in Civil Engineering

Steel is a commonly used material in civil engineering projects. WIth steel, engineers can build strong structures for different types of buildings.

  • Steel Used in Bridges/Steel in Bridges

Bridges are constructed with steel to make them able to handle heavy load. Many structures used for bridges such as cables, beams, girders and rods made of steel. It supports the weight of vehicles, trains & pedestrians easily. Steel bridges also have the ability to resist strong winds and weather.

  • Steel Dams

Mostly, dams are built with the use of steel to make them extra strong and safe. The reason is that steel is strong enough to hold back large amounts of water. Plus, it can resist pressure/water flow and harsh weather. You can also use steel reinforcements and plates to keep dams stable.

  • Use of Steel in Roads & Highways

In roads and highways, steel has an hidden but important role. You can use it in reinforced concrete, guardrails or overpasses. Steel provides strength to the road, so it can handle heavy trucks and constant traffic. It also resists cracks and heat, which keep highways safe for years.

  • Steel Tunnel

You can use steel for tunnel construction for strength and safety. For instance: steel linings, arches, supports and reinforcements give strength to tunnels holding their shape underground. They can resist soil pressure, water plus vibrations from traffic above.

  • Steel For Industrial Plants

For industrial plants, you need strong and durable materials and steel is perfect for this. You can use it in frames, storage tanks, pipelines and machinery. On top of that, steel can handle high temperatures and constant use. So, you can keep industrial plants safe and long lasting.

Steel Use in Packaging Industry

Following are major applications of steel in packaging services.

  • Food and Beverage Cans

You can use steel to make safe food & beverage cans. It keeps your drinks and food fresh for a long time. Steel cans do not break easily and also provide protection from air/moisture and damage. These cans are commonly used for products such as soups, fruits, vegetables and soft drinks.

  • Aerosol Containers

Well, steel is strong and can handle pressure, which makes it perfect for aerosol containers. You can use these containers to hold sprays like deodorants, personal care, cleaning products or cooking oils. Steel keeps the contents under pressure and also prevents leaks.

  • Chemical and Paint Cans

Steel is widely used to make chemical and paint storage cans. It keeps liquids safe from leakage and protects them from air and moisture. You should use steel cans to store paints, oils, varnishes and cleaning chemicals securely.

  • Steel in Industrial Packaging

One of the most popular uses of steel is in industrial packaging to store/transport large amounts of industrial products. You can use steel drums, barrels or containers to protect materials such as oils and powders. They are strong and can handle damage during shipping.

  • Specialty Packaging Applications

Steel is also best for specialty packaging of unique or sensitive products. With it, you can protect items such as medical supplies, high end beverages plus electronic components. Steel keeps these products safe from damage and moisture.

Steel Usage in Mechanical Equipment

In the manufacturing of many mechanical machines and tools, you will find steel the most popular material. Below we listed some examples.

  • Steel Engines & Steel Motors

Engines and motors are made of steel for strength and reliability. Many parts such as pistons, crankshafts, cylinder liners and casings use steel. It can handle heat and friction well.

  • Steel Shafts or Gears

To make shafts or gears, steel is an ideal material for you. It keeps your machines working smoothly. Steel is strong and can handle heavy loads well. So, mechanical tools can operate efficiently. It also prevents parts from damage due to constant use.

  • Pumps and Compressors

Steel is used in pumps and compressors because it can handle high pressure and heavy wear. Mechanical parts such as casings, impellers or valves are generally made of steel. It also resists corrosion, which is important when pumps move liquids or compressors handle gases.

Steel Uses in Electrical Equipments

Engineers choose steel for electrical devices because it provides strength and support to electrical systems. You can use steel in the manufacturing of the following electric gears.

  • Steel Transformers

You should use steel to make the core and outer body of transformers. Because, this material has the property to control magnetic flow. Hence, you can reduce loss of energy. It also provides a shield for internal parts of the transformer from damage.

  • Switchgears & Steel Wires

These are most commonly used electrical devices in your homes and industries. Therefore, you need maximum safety and strength for them. Steel made switchgears frames and cables have excellent ability to manage heat/pressure and physical damage.

  • Electrical Enclosures or Panels

You must use steel in the production of electrical enclosures and panels. You can use these tools to protect sensitive electrical components. With the use of steel, you can prevent electric shocks and fire risks. In addition, steel enclosures keep electrical systems safe, organized as well as durable.

Steel Use in Decorative Parts

Steel is widely used in decorative parts which you use for your homes and buildings. You see steel in railings, gates, fences, wall panels, screens, light fixtures, staircases and nameplates. It adds both beauty and strength to designs. You can shape steel into your many patterns and finishes.

Application of Steel in Energy Industry 

  • Solar Energy Structures

You should select steel to make strong frames and supports for your solar panels. It holds panels securely and keeps them stable in wind and rain. As you know, steel is highly resistant to corrosion. Hence, it keeps your solar structures strong for a long time.

  • Nuclear Energy Equipment

This metal is an ideal option to manufacture nuclear energy equipment. These include reactors, pressure vessels or storage tanks. Due to steel presence, these items can handle high temperatures/pressure and radiation. They can also resist corrosion and keep nuclear systems functional for a long time.

  • Steel in Pipelines

For the distribution of natural gas and oil, steel made pipes are installed. You should trust steel to handle high pressure and harsh weather. These pipelines can last for many years because of high strength.

  • Transmission Towers

Steel is used at large scale to build transmission towers. You use steel to hold heavy power lines high above the ground. It can handle heavy wind, storms plus extreme weather. With this metal, you can make sure electricity moves safely from power plants to homes or factories.

  • Wind and Tidal Turbine

Wind turbine parts like blades, shafts & massive towers (support structure) made of steel. It gives strength and stability to wind turbines to catch wind at high heights. Steel tidal turbines can handle constant force of water. Further, you find steel alloys in rotor blades.

  • Mining Equipment

You can use steel in mining equipment to make high quality machines. Majorly, steel used in excavators, bulldozers, drills, crushers and conveyors. This metal makes these equipment strong enough to handle heavy loads and harsh underground conditions.

Steel Use in Transportation & Automotive Industry

  • Automobiles

Steel is widely used in the automobile industry to create strong car bodies and engine parts. So, vehicles can handle heavy loads and protect passengers in accidents. You can use steel in automobile parts including body panels, chassis/frame, engine block, transmission parts, fuel tanks, brake discs and drums.

  • Railroads

Steel is used in railroads sectors to make tracks, train cars, locomotives and bridges strong and reliable. It can carry heavy trains and stay functional in constant use. With steel, you can also keep wheels, axles or other parts safe, which help trains operate smoothly for many years.

  • Shipbuilding

Steel is the most valuable material in ship manufacturing. You can use it to make hulls, decks, bulkheads and superstructures strong. Steel made ships easily carry heavy loads and survive rough seas. As steel resists corrosion and damage from water, so it keep vessels safe.

  • Aerospace

This high strength metal is best to use in the production of aerospace equipment. You can manufacture strong airplane and spacecraft parts. Steel is also found in landing gears, engine components plus structural frames. Moreover, it can handle high pressure & heat, so that aircraft perform efficiently in all conditions.

Application of Steel in Medical Industry

  • Wheelchairs and Walkers: Steel in wheelchairs and walkers make them strong and durable. They can support heavy weight and stay stable.
  • IV stands: Steel IV stands used to hold fluid bags securely in hospitals. These stands can resist rust, which keep medical treatments safe for patients.
  • Surgical Equipment: Many surgical instruments such as scissors, clamps & forceps are made of steel. You should use steel because it is easy to sterilize and keeps surgical tools safe.
  • Artificial Heart Valves: Steel is also best to form artificial heart valves. It makes them strong and provides resistance to mechanical fatigue.
  • Specialty Guide Wires: You use specialty guide wires in surgeries or medical procedures, actually made with steel. Steel flexibility makes it perfect for guide wires.
  • Medical Needles/Syringes: One of most common steel medical tools are needles and syringes. This metal makes these sensitive items sharp & precise.
  • Medical Beds: Steel frames in hospital beds provide strength and stability. You can use steel to make beds durable and safe for patients of all sizes.
  • Sensor Probes: You should use steel in sensor probes to make them precise and resistant to corrosion. They can make accurate readings and durable performance.
  • Catheters: Well, some catheters use steel components to add strength & flexibility. It makes insertion safer and more reliable for patients.
  • Precision Tubing: You can also use steel in tubes which you need to use in medical devices/equipment for precision flow of fluids or gases.

Use of Steel in Art

You can easily bend, cut or weld steel to make creative sculptures and decorative pieces. It is used in art because it is strong & durable into different designs. Moreover, it can resist weather and corrosion. These properties make it perfect for your indoor and outdoor applications. Below we listed popular decorative products made of steel.

  • Sculptures
  • Wall art panels
  • Decorative screens
  • Garden ornaments
  • Fountains
  • Modern art installations
  • Gates with artistic designs
  • Metal figurines
  • Light fixtures with artistic shapes
  • Art frames

Use of Steel in Food Industry

If we talk about steel applications in the food industry, it is a popular choice because of its durability, strength plus easy to clean features. Hence, you trust it to make equipment, storage containers or processing tools. Steel resists corrosion and also never reacts with food, which keeps your food safe & hygienic.

  • Food processing machines
  • Conveyor belts, cutlery and utensils
  • Cooking equipment (pots, pans or ovens)
  • Food packaging containers
  • Refrigerators & freezers
  • Equipment for mixing and blending
  • Bakery racks and trays
  • Beverage dispensers

Steel Applications in Automation

Following are examples of automation devices and tools that are made with steel.

  • Industrial robots & robotic arms
  • Machine frames
  • Conveyor systems
  • Actuators and shafts
  • Gears and pulley
  • Automated storage system
  • Safety guards and enclosures
  • Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders

Steel in the Marine Industry

Steel is the best metal to make ship hulls, decks, masts, anchors, bulkheads, offshore platforms, lifeboats, cranes and storage tanks on ships. In fact, it also appears in piers, docks and marine pipelines. With steel utilization, you can keep all these marine structures safe in harsh sea conditions.

Applications of Steel in Sports Equipment

As we mentioned, steel is strong/durable and can handle heavy impact, so it is widely used in several sports items. You can make equipment safe and reliable during games or workouts. Below is a list of steel made sports tools.

Uses of Steel in Agriculture

Farmers need strong tools because they have to perform heavy work such as plowing fields, soil lifting or harvesting crops. So, you need machines that must handle rough conditions in fields. That’s why high quality steel is more preferable for agricultural machinery and tools.

  • Tractor parts and frames
  • Harvesters & threshers
  • Irrigation equipment (pipes, pumps)
  • Sprayers and spreaders
  • Seed drills and planters
  • Water troughs and feeders
  • Hoes, sickles & spades

List of JACKWIN’s Products Made of Steel

  • Traffic Signs and signposts installed on roads to guide drivers safely. They resist weather and last for many years.
  • Guardrails and bollards used to protect vehicles and pedestrians from accidents. They can absorb impact and prevent damage.
  • Delineator posts used to mark lanes and road edges. With these steel posts, you can guide vehicles and improve road safety.
  • Pedestrian barriers/crowd control barriers protect pedestrians and manage crowds during events or construction work.
  • Road studs/marker bases are reflective markers which you should install on roads to improve visibility and safety at night.
  • Speed bumps (with steel reinforcement) placed on highways to slow vehicles safely. Steel adds strength and prevents damage over time.
  • Frame barricades used to block or redirect traffic. They are strong, portable plus easy to set up for you.
  • Wheel chocks are heavy duty and durable wedges which you can use to protect your vehicles and large trucks from moving accidentally.
  • Trench covers are ideal to protect workers and pedestrians from open trenches.

FAQs

Is Steel Stronger Than Iron?

Yes, steel contains more strength as compared to iron. Because, it is manufactured with the combination of iron with small amounts of carbon and other elements. Hence, steel is less likely to break than pure iron.

Which Steel is the Best For Knives?

The best steel for knives is stainless steel or high carbon steel. However, the selection of right steel depends on how you plan to use the knife. You can see this reddit discussion to find out which type of steel is best for your different uses.

Why is Steel Used in Concrete?

You need to use steel in concrete to add important tensile strength. Steel bars (rebar) make reinforced concrete resist cracks and failure. So, you can create strong buildings, bridges & highways.

Who is the Largest Consumer of Steel in the World?

China is the top steel consuming country who uses almost more than half of the world’s steel. Surprisingly, Chinese industries consume over 800 million tons of steel each year. This is far more than countries like India, Japan or the United States.

Is Steel Rust Proof?

No, steel is not completely rust proof. Well, ordinary steel can rust when exposed to water and air. However, stainless steel contains chromium, which makes it resistant to rust and corrosion.

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