How to pack and protect materials for long hauls
When materials are shipped over long distances, proper packing and protection are essential to prevent damage, contamination, and costly losses. Whether you’re transporting steel, aluminum, lumber, or fragile goods, ensuring...
Mill production cuts and their downstream effects
When mills reduce production, the effects ripple throughout the supply chain, impacting distributors, manufacturers, fabricators, and end users. Whether caused by raw material shortages, declining demand, regulatory policies, or economic...
Rising influence of OEMs on supply chain structure
Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are playing an increasingly dominant role in shaping global supply chains. As industries like automotive, aerospace, electronics, and heavy equipment demand greater efficiency, customization, and reliability,...
Temperature limits for different grades of stainless steel
Stainless steel is widely used in high-temperature environments such as industrial furnaces, chemical processing, power plants, and aerospace applications. However, not all stainless steel grades perform the same way at...
Understanding machinability ratings for metal grades
Machining metal is a critical process in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications. But not all metals cut, drill, or mill the same way—some are easier to machine than others.
What is decarb and how it affects performance
When working with steel, surface quality and mechanical properties are critical for ensuring strength, durability, and performance. One issue that can impact steel components is decarburization (decarb)—a process that reduces...
When to bundle vs skid your products
Packaging plays a critical role in ensuring products arrive safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively at their destination. Two common shipping methods are bundling and skidding—but how do you know which one...
Why customers specify normalized steel plate
When it comes to structural integrity, strength, and performance, steel plates must meet specific requirements based on their application. One of the most commonly requested types is normalized steel plate—but...
ASTM A500 vs A513 tubing: key differences
When selecting steel tubing for structural or mechanical applications, two common standards often come up: ASTM A500 and ASTM A513. While both are widely used, they serve different purposes and...
Common mill rejection reasons and how to avoid them
In the metals industry, ensuring that materials meet customer specifications and quality standards is critical. However, mills sometimes reject orders due to defects, inconsistencies, or non-compliance with specifications. When this...
