Corten Steel Benefits
2 min readOct 12, 2022
What is Corten Steel?
Corten steel commonly known as weathering steel is highly resistant to rusting and pitting when exposed to the elements. In order to preserve itself, this steel forms an oxide coating. Corten steel is extremely durable and resistant to a wide range of corrosion. It’s ideal for demanding tasks like bridge construction because of its superior efficiency and long service life but also because it comes at a far lower cost. Some silicon, nickel, chromium, phosphorus, and copper will also be added.
What Makes up Corten Steel?
- Carbon, c — 0.15%
- Silicon, Si — 0.25–0.75%
- Manganese, Mn — 0.02–0.50%
- Phosphorus, P — 0.07–0.15%
- Sulfur, S — 0.030%
- Aluminum, Al — 0.015–0.06 %
- Copper, Cu — 0.25–0.55%
- Chromium, Cr — 0.50–1.25%
- Nickel, Ni — 0.65%
Benefits of Corten Steel
- One of the most impressive qualities of Corten steel is its ability to resist corrosion. This makes it an excellent choice for structures like bridges that will be in contact with a wide range of corrosive elements.
- Corten steel undergoes a process called beneficial corrosion, wherein the rusting normally associated with steel actually serves a protective function.
- In addition to its exceptional strength and low maintenance needs, corten steel is also cost-effective over time.
- Weathering steel has various uses and is a good choice if you are considering having a structure built on your land. To begin, this material resists corrosion by virtue of its composition. When first exposed to the elements, it develops a rust coating that inhibits further deterioration. Short-term and long-term costs for maintenance and repairs can be reduced significantly as a result.
- Corten steel does not require painting since the rust that forms on it acts as a protective covering. It is recommended that buildings constructed from weathering steel be left unpainted. Once again, this reduces the cost and effort required to maintain your steel structure. The reddish-brown hue of steel continues to stand out and can be an asset to your home’s aesthetics.
- Last but not least, Corten steel is extremely long-lasting and won’t rust. This material is suitable for usage in large, load-bearing buildings and other heavy structures. This makes it a great choice for a wide range of potential structures on your land.
