Weathering steel, also known as atmospheric corrosion resistant steel, refers to low-alloy high-strength steel containing a small amount of alloying elements. It exhibits excellent corrosion resistance in the atmosphere and is less expensive than stainless steel.
Due to its superior atmospheric corrosion resistance, weathering steel is widely used in various industries, including railway vehicles, containers, bridges, buildings, and power transmission towers. The atmospheric corrosion resistance of weathering steel can be 2 to 8 times that of ordinary carbon steel, with the alloying elements playing a decisive role. Since the 1930s, scholars from various countries have conducted extensive research on the influence of common alloying elements such as Cu, P, Cr, Ni, and Si on the corrosion resistance of weathering steel and proposed corresponding mechanisms for improving corrosion resistance.
Researchers at Beijing University of Science and Technology studied the effect of aluminum content on the corrosion resistance of weathering steel using methods such as microstructural observation, accelerated corrosion experiments, microscopic analysis of the rust layer, and AC impedance characterization. Aluminum can promote the formation of bainite in the steel, making the rust layer denser and providing better protection for the steel matrix, thus improving the steel's corrosion resistance.
As the aluminum content in the steel increases, the corrosion potential of the rust layer in the experimental steel shifts positively, the self-corrosion current density decreases, the anodic dissolution reaction of the rust layer is significantly hindered, and the rust layer has better protective properties.
FAQ
1. What is special about Corten steel?
Corten Steel encompasses a group of steels which possess exceptional corrosion resistance and tensile strength. Corten Steel is also known as a 'weathering' steel; as the steel forms a protective layer on its surface under the influence of the weather, and it does not need to be painted.
2. What is Corten steel made of?
Corten steel, often known as weathering steel, is a steel alloy recognised for its distinctive worn look and high durability. It is mostly made of iron, with trace quantities of copper, chromium, and nickel added to improve its weathering qualities.
3. Is Corten steel just rusted steel?
Corten steel is a brown-orange steel. The coloration is due to the self-protecting rust layer that naturally forms over time. Once it has matured, this layer of metal oxide is called a « patina ». Corten steel is a metal that changes over time under the influence of atmospheric conditions.
4. How long will Corten steel last?
Generally, Corten steel will patina or rust within six months of atmospheric exposure. Most weathering steel types need wet/dry weather cycles to develop and oxidize. With the protective rust that provides corrosion resistance, Corten steel can last upwards of a few decades to over 100 years.
5. Do magnets stick to corten steel?
Other than austenitic stainless steels, most steel does attract magnets. Galvanised steel, Corten steel, mild steel, cold-reduced steel and hot-rolled steel are all magnetic.
Company profile
Founded in 2008, Gnee (Tianjin) Supply Chain Group Co., Ltd. specializes in the global trade and processing of Corten steel products.
• We handle all kinds of Corten engineering projects, such as bridges, gardens, hotels, and facade systems.
• Compliant with ASTM, EN, and other international standards; third-party inspection supported.
• Exported to over 200 countries and regions worldwide.
• 8 subsidiaries across China and overseas, ensuring global service coverage.
Application Fields: Architecture, landscaping, gardening, cladding, and urban infrastructure.
