Pros and cons of domestically sourced vs imported metals
When purchasing metal for manufacturing, construction, or fabrication, businesses must decide whether to buy domestically sourced or imported metals. While domestic metals offer reliability and compliance with U.S. standards, imported...
Stress corrosion cracking in stainless: causes and prevention
Stainless steel is known for its corrosion resistance and durability, but under certain conditions, it can suffer from stress corrosion cracking (SCC). SCC is a serious failure mode that can...
Typical fabrication steps after the service center delivers steel
When a service center delivers steel to a manufacturer or fabricator, the work has just begun. The raw material must go through several fabrication steps to be transformed into a...
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...
