Types of Corten steel
Corten steel comes in two main types: Cor-ten A and Cor-ten B. The key difference between them is the amount of phosphorus they contain.
Most shipping containers are made of Cor-ten B, which is produced in tubes or sheets. Cor-ten A is produced in coils and it's mainly used for finer items, such as ductwork.
Common uses of Corten steel
Shipping containers use corten steel because it's strong, weather-resistant, and lasts for a long time. But there are other uses for this super-steel, too.
You can also see corten steel used on building facades, roofs, landscape design, and even major engineering projects. Because of its attractive weathered appearance, it's also popular in garden ornaments and sculpture.
Advantages of Corten steel
There are several reasons why shipping companies, engineers, and builders choose corten steel. As well as rust resistance, corten steel is also known for its durability, versatility, and low lifetime costs.
Corrosion resistance
Unlike some other types of steels, corten steel gets stronger when it rusts. The top layer of metal forms a protective patina that can last for years. Even better, the patina can repair itself if it's scratched or damaged.
Durability
Because of their tensile strength and corrosion resistance, shipping containers can put up with a lot. They hold heavy loads, get transported all over the world, and resist extreme weather. With the right maintenance, corten steel can last for decades.
Low maintenance
Corten steel's natural patina means that it doesn't even need to be painted. It requires minimal maintenance, at minimal cost. Although shipping containers should be checked regularly for rust or dents, corten steel can protect itself for a very long time.
Aesthetic appeal
When corten steel rusts, it develops a rough patina in bronze, rust, and copper hues. It's a colour that goes with almost everything, from garden landscaping to modern building materials. Many people choose unpainted corten steel for its aesthetic appeal.
Longevity
With its strength, rust resistance, and low maintenance requirements, corten steel can last a very long time. Corten steel that's 2-3mm thick can be used for up to 25 years. 4mm thick sheets might last as much as 40 years.
The lifespan of a shipping container might be less than that, depending on how it's used and whether it is maintained properly. However, most container conversions should easily last a couple of decades.
Low cost
Corten steel is surprisingly cost-effective. Although it's very high quality, it lasts a long time with minimal maintenance - so after the upfront cost, it's very cheap to keep around. Corten steel is considered the best value for money of all sheet metals for anything that you plan to use for over a decade.
Weldability
Like all steels, corten steel has a low carbon content. That makes it easy to weld. For example, if you plan to convert or extend a shipping container, it's relatively simple to install doors, windows, and additional containers.
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.
