When deciding on a metal to use, from stainless steel to HY 80, a type of low alloy, high strength steel, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, what is this type of metal primarily used for? For example, stainless steel uses can include medical uses alongside uses in the fields of architecture and construction. You want to choose a metal that will be suitable and long lasting for its job. You also must keep in mind the availability of this metal. If you plan to use a rarer metal, you will probably also need anticipate a steeper cost.
Steels are, in general, a popular choice. Alloy steels (examples of Alloys include HY 80) are very common. They are typically divided into four classes. The first is that of structural steels, often used in construction because of its strength. The second is tool and die steels. The third is magnetic alloys and the fourth category or class is stainless and heat resisting steels. HY 80 steel is used for mostly industrial purposes and is very common in the construction of submarines, particularly in the United States Navy. HY 80 type steel is particularly suited to submarine building because of its high yield strength. Submarines are required to be built of a high yield steel like HY 80 because they need to operate 100 meters under Sonic Layer Depth in order to avoid sonar detection.
Among the four most common metals (also including stainless steel, carbon steel, and copper), aluminum (and aluminum alloy) is often used in the world. Aluminum alloy 2014 is particularly useful, as it is able to withstand high temperatures and still retain its strength, making it one of the strongest heat treated materials commercially available. Because of this, it is particularly suited to aircraft parts.
Stainless steel 316 is another common alloy metal. Though it used for a variety of purposes, it is most often used for laboratory equipment, boat parts and fittings, chemical containers, and jet engine parts, as well as processing equipment for the food and pharmaceutical industries. Stainless steel 304, however, another type of stainless steel and alloy metal, is overall the most popular grade of steel.
No matter what type of metal you end up using for you project, be in HY 80 or stainless steel 316 or aluminum alloy 2014, it’s important to do your research and know everything you can about what each type of metal is best suited for. You want your product you be safe and strong as well as long lasting, and choosing the best metal suited for the job will help to insure that this is a reality.