China’s steel output and its impact on U.S. markets
China is the world’s largest producer of steel, accounting for more than 50% of global steel production. Its massive output not only shapes the international steel industry but also has...
Common width and length tolerances on sheet products
When working with metal sheet products, precision is essential. Whether it’s steel, aluminum, or stainless steel, manufacturers and fabricators need to know the acceptable tolerances for width and length to...
Differences in machinability between 303 and 304 stainless
If you work with stainless steel, you’ve probably encountered 303 and 304 stainless steel. They’re both austenitic stainless steels, meaning they have excellent corrosion resistance and are commonly used in...
How aluminum pricing is affected by LME trends
Aluminum is a critical material in industries like automotive, aerospace, construction, and packaging. However, its price fluctuates due to various global factors, with the London Metal Exchange (LME) playing a...
How steel gets priced at the CME
Steel is one of the most important industrial commodities, used in construction, automotive, infrastructure, and manufacturing. But how is steel priced in global markets? One of the key pricing mechanisms...
Industry-specific thickness tolerances (e.g., HVAC vs structural)
In industries like HVAC, structural steel, automotive, and aerospace, material thickness tolerances are critical for performance, safety, and cost efficiency. Different industries have unique requirements based on load-bearing capacity, flexibility,...
Profiles of major mills and their specialties
Steel and aluminum mills play a critical role in global manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure. Each mill specializes in different materials, grades, and production methods, supplying industries such as automotive, aerospace,...
Stainless steel use in food & pharma applications
Stainless steel is the gold standard for food and pharmaceutical industries due to its corrosion resistance, durability, and ease of cleaning. Whether it’s food processing equipment, pharmaceutical tanks, or medical...
Top logistics KPIs in steel distribution
Steel distribution is a complex supply chain that involves sourcing, warehousing, transportation, and customer delivery. With fluctuating demand, rising transportation costs, and just-in-time delivery expectations, tracking the right Key Performance...
Welding best practices for stainless steel
Stainless steel is widely used in construction, automotive, food processing, and medical industries due to its corrosion resistance, strength, and durability. However, welding stainless steel requires specific techniques and precautions...
