In the first three months of 2022, the United States shipped over 22.8 million net tons of steel. While metal can be made into almost any shape, it often comes in the form of a flat bar.
There are several different types of flat bars, and each one is best for different applications. With all the flat bar options available, you may be confused about which kind is best for your project.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about flat bar metal and its uses.
What Is a Flat Bar?
A flat bar is any kind of metal with a flat, rectangular shape. This kind of material is so common in our everyday lives that it’s easy not to notice it.
The applications of the flat bar include construction, appliances, structural use, and art. Manufacturers can use any metal to produce flat bars, but carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum are the most common kinds.
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel flat bar is often used for fabrication. Its ductility and weldability make it easy to work with, and the added carbon gives it higher strength than other metals.
This kind of steel differs from stainless in that it can rust if exposed to the elements. To prevent corrosion, carbon steel flat bar should be painted if it will be outdoors.
Stainless Steel
Unlike carbon steel, stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, meaning it won’t rust. However, it is more expensive than carbon steel and aluminum.
Because its carbon content isn’t as high, it has less tensile strength and hardness than carbon steel.
Aluminum
An aluminum flat bar is a remarkably lightweight material. While it isn’t as strong as steel, its low weight makes it useful for supporting structures.
Another added benefit of aluminum is that it doesn’t rust even if it isn’t painted.
Uses of Flat Bar
While the flat bar is everywhere, knowing its applications can help you choose the right kind for your project. These are the most common uses of flat bars.
Since the flat bar is easy to reshape, construction workers use it in many aspects of building. The bar can be used for building frames, roofing, and parking lots.
In addition to buildings and frames, a flat bar is useful for structural applications like bridges. On a smaller scale, it can be used to support smaller structures made of different materials like wood.
You can even find a flat bar in your own home! Your refrigerator, oven, and microwave most likely have some components made of the flat bar. Metal bars can often withstand high temperatures, making them a good choice for kitchen appliances.
Finally, metal sculptors often use flat bars in industrial art installments. With the rise of DIY furniture, people also use it to craft their own home decor.
The Bottom Line On Metal Flat Bar
A flat bar is a versatile material that comes in many sizes and materials. It’s most commonly made of carbon steel, stainless steel, or aluminum, and has applications in many different industries.
Check out our blog page to learn more about other fascinating topics!
