How to Choose the Right Metal for Your Construction Project

When choosing to work with metal, many people skip the part where they select the one based on the metal type. This later causes misfitting and other issues relating to the construction project perspectives and the selected metal type that does not correspond to it. So, it is important to choose the right metal, which includes getting familiar with their types, capabilities, and many other qualities. For this reason only, let’s below get acquainted with some important factors such as the project type you’re working on, understanding the material properties, and many more to help you choose the right metal.

The type of project you are working on

This is the first step that should serve as an indicator for material selection and it has three subcategories.

• Load-bearing capacity: This refers to the weight that the metal should be supporting after your construction. Meaning, that you have to consider the metal’s ability to hold the weight you are going to put on it. This can also depend on the production of metal constructions.
• Static loads: This refers to the constant weight the metal will be handling. For example, the structure’s weight or any other permanent fixtures.
• Dynamic loads: This one refers to the weight that can change throughout, let’s say, the day or month. For example, the weight of people, furniture, and other types of equipment. You can combine the hypothetical weight of both in order to have an accurate weight.

Environmental conditions

Another important factor to consider is the environment, where you will use the metal construction. For example, if the location is constantly facing harsh weather, then you might want to use metals that have corrosion resistance or the ones that build a protective rust on the surface of the metal, that doesn’t let moisture get to the material (these metals are typically used outdoors). Here is a closer look.

• Moisture exposure: Just like we discussed above, moisture is a factor that shouldn’t be overlooked,  as it will quickly corrode the metal and ruin your means invested in the project. For this, you can use corrosion-resistant metals such as stainless steel or aluminum.

• Chemical exposure: Choose materials that will withstand in areas where chemicals and air pollutants are constant.
• Extreme temperatures: Each type of metal reacts differently to temperature changes. For example, some metals become brittle in the cold, while others expand in heat and affect the structural integrity.

Metal properties

As metals have different types, they can suit different applications. Here are some key properties you might want to consider.

• Tensile strength: This is the metal’s ability to withstand tension and not break while at it.
• Weldability: If you’re considering welding and giving some design to the metal you’re using, consider the type that is easy to weld. Since there are many metal types that cannot be welded.  Some weldable metals are stainless steel, high strength low alloy steel, aluminum, copper, and copper alloy.
• Ductility: This is the capacity of the metal that allows you to draw on it or shape it without breaking. Some properties of ductile metals are high toughness, malleability, and temperature dependence. Some ductile metals are copper, aluminum, silver, iron, platinum, zinc, and gold.

Evaluate the metal types

In order to choose the right metal type, it is also important to understand the specifics of the metals you’re considering integrating into your project. Here are some commonly used metals and their specifics.

• Carbon steel: It is a strong metal that is also affordable enough to be used in construction. Carbon steel is typically used in structural applications.
• Alloy steel: It has enhanced features that can be described with qualities like increased hardness and durability. Is widely used for demanding applications.
• Stainless steel: Has excellent corrosion resistance and is widely used in environments where moisture and humidity are non-escapable.
• Aluminum: One of the most commonly used metals that we can describe as lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Due to these qualities, aluminum is especially used in applications where weight can be a concern.

Consider the metal cost

The metal cost can vary depending on your project. So, it could significantly help you if you had an overall budget for the project. Here’s what to consider when you’re planning a budget.

• The metal costs: Starting from the metal type to its design (if you want one). You should consider the varying prices and the size of your project.
• The long-term value: If this is an investment to be used for a longer period, then you might want to get materials of high quality, and that will also have low maintenance.
• The costs related to installation and transportation: This is the part that is often overlooked. However, it’s an important and unskippable one, so, consider the distance, the weight of the materials, and also the installation services, if you want it to be done by experts.

Expert consultation and help

It is always a good idea to consult an expert for a professional opinion. This will help you choose the metal that is suitable for your project the most. In Yerevan, you can consult a metal construction company that will not only give you a useful consultation but will also provide metal processing and installation services. This is how your project will get an expert touch and better results, to serve you as long as possible.

Conclusion

For any construction project, it is important to know how to start, what materials to choose, and how to operate throughout the whole process. This is also about metals in any construction project. So, some common indicators would be understanding the distinctions between weldability and non-weldability, corrosion resistance, and durability.

You can also get in touch with a metal processing company at any time to seek advice from an expert or to ask basic inquiries like where to find high-quality metal. All this is to make better choices referring to your construction. Make better investments that will serve you long with no unexpected breakages and additional costs. So, explore the metal types, and your requirements, and also consider getting professional services for better results.