What affects delivery delays from mill to warehouse
Timely delivery of steel and other raw materials is critical for manufacturers, distributors, and construction projects. However, delays between the mill and warehouse are common, impacting production schedules, inventory levels,...
What’s driving stainless steel price fluctuations
Stainless steel is a critical material across industries—from construction to automotive and even household appliances. But if you’ve been keeping an eye on the market, you’ve likely noticed how unpredictable...
Why aluminum grades are often chosen for weight-sensitive applications
When designing aircraft, vehicles, or high-performance structures, weight matters. Every extra pound adds fuel costs, reduces efficiency, or limits payload capacity. That’s why aluminum grades are the go-to choice for...
Common causes of inventory shrinkage in metals
Inventory shrinkage is a major challenge in the metals industry. Whether you’re dealing with steel, aluminum, copper, or other metals, losing track of material can lead to higher costs, inaccurate...
Corrosion resistance of aluminum in marine applications
Aluminum is widely used in marine applications due to its lightweight, strength, and excellent corrosion resistance. Unlike steel, which requires constant maintenance to prevent rust, aluminum naturally forms a protective...
Ferritic vs austenitic stainless: when to use each
Stainless steel is known for its corrosion resistance, strength, and durability, but not all stainless steels are the same. Two of the most commonly used types are ferritic and austenitic...
How chromium and nickel content affect corrosion resistance
Corrosion is one of the biggest challenges in metallurgy, especially for materials exposed to moisture, chemicals, and harsh environments. Two key elements that enhance corrosion resistance in metals are chromium...
How to handle price objections without discounting
Price objections are common in sales, but that doesn’t mean you have to cut prices to close the deal. Instead of immediately offering a discount, the key is to communicate...
Load-bearing capacities of different beam profiles (I-beam, HSS, C-channel)
When designing structures, bridges, industrial frameworks, or machinery, choosing the right beam profile is critical. Different beam shapes—I-beams, Hollow Structural Sections (HSS), and C-channels—have unique load-bearing capacities, affecting strength, weight...
Pros and cons of stocking uncommon grades
Metal service centers and manufacturers often focus on high-demand grades, but sometimes, stocking uncommon metal grades can provide a competitive edge. While carrying rare materials can attract specialized customers and...
