2010 – 08 – Classifying Steel

The composition of steels, and other metals, defines their essential qualities. When manufacturers create metals, they can adjust the different elements to get a specific type of steel. It is a delicate balance, though: If the metals are too far out of proportion, then the metal will be useless.

Types of steels are distinguished from each other based on their metallic proportions.. Each steel is classified using specific numbers that describe its particular grade of steel.