What is open-hearth steel and where it’s still used
Steel is the backbone of construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure, but not all steel is made the same way. One of the earliest mass-production methods for steelmaking was the open-hearth process—a...
When to consolidate vs split orders for processing
Order management is a crucial part of any supply chain, and one key decision businesses face is whether to consolidate multiple orders into one shipment or split them into separate...
Why duplex stainless is gaining popularity in harsh environments
Imagine working in an offshore oil rig, a chemical processing plant, or a marine environment where metal structures constantly battle extreme temperatures, corrosive chemicals, and high-pressure conditions. Traditional materials struggle...
Benefits of having a diversified supplier base
In today’s fast-changing business world, relying on a single supplier is a risky strategy. What happens if that supplier experiences delays, raises prices, or faces a sudden shutdown? That’s where...
Common pitfalls in forming stainless sheet and plate
Stainless steel is a strong, corrosion-resistant material widely used in industries like construction, automotive, and food processing. However, forming stainless sheet and plate comes with unique challenges due to its...
Difference between HRPO and HR black
If you’ve ever ordered hot-rolled steel, you’ve likely come across two common terms: HRPO (Hot Rolled Pickled & Oiled) and HR Black (Hot Rolled Black Steel). At first glance, they...
Freight class for steel sheets, bars, and coils
Shipping steel products—whether sheets, bars, or coils—requires understanding freight classification to ensure accurate shipping costs, proper handling, and compliance with carrier regulations. Misclassifying freight can result in delays, unexpected charges,...
How EV manufacturing will change metal demand
The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is transforming the automotive industry—and with it, the global demand for metals. Traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles rely heavily on steel, aluminum, and...
How to prioritize work orders during material shortages
Material shortages can disrupt production, delay customer orders, and increase costs. When steel, aluminum, copper, or other critical materials are in short supply, businesses must make tough decisions about which...
Optimizing your cut-to-length line
A cut-to-length (CTL) line is a critical part of metal processing, transforming coiled sheet metal into precise, flat-cut sheets for manufacturing and fabrication. Whether you’re working with steel, aluminum, or...
