In the metals and materials area especially in the construction and engineering sector terms such as MS (Mild Steel) and HT (High Tensile) are commonly used to describe different types of steel. Although both are used in different applications they vary widely in composition, strength and usage. Understanding the differences between these two materials can be useful in choosing the right type for certain projects.
What is Mild Steel (MS)?
Carbon steel, mild steel also known as MS, is one of the most common forms of steel with carbon content of 0.05% to 0.25%. Being low in carbon it is less brittle and more ductile, it can be bent, welded and shaped easily. Mild steel is not complicated to compose, it usually consists of iron with a small amount of carbon and other elements including manganese and sulfur.
Properties of Mild Steel:
Ductility: Mild steel is highly ductile and can be stretched or deformed without breaking. This makes it easy to work with during construction or fabrication.
Malleability: The material can be hammered or rolled to very thin sheets so that it can be used in many ways.
Corrosion Resistance: Mild steel is prone to rust when exposed to moisture or chemicals due to the absence of significant protective elements like chromium.
Cost-Effective: Due to its simple composition and ease of production, mild steel is relatively inexpensive.
Applications of Mild Steel: Construction industries use mild steel to construct such structures as beams, rods and pipes. It is also employed in manufacturing products like car parts, appliances and machinery that do not require extremely high strength.
What is High Tensile Steel (HT)?
High Tensile Steel – HT is a form of steel with carbon content between 0.3 and 0.7% higher than mild steel. It may also contain other ingredients such as chromium, nickel or vanadium which enhance the strength and durability. The increased carbon content and alloying elements give HT steel a higher tensile strength and can withstand higher stress and pressure before breaking or deforming.
Properties of High Tensile Steel:
High Strength: HT steel is suitable for demanding applications and designed to handle more stress and weight than mild steel
Hardness: The material is harder and more resistant to wear and tear.
Reduced Ductility: HT steel is high strength, but not as ductile as mild steel, and thus less suitable for forming and shaping.
Corrosion Resistance: Depending on the alloying elements HT steel can exhibit improved resistance to corrosion compared to mild steel.
Applications of High Tensile Steel: HT steel is used in industries where strength is required such as in the fabrication of bridges, cranes and other structures and equipment that are strong. High Tensile Plates are also used in the production of other high-stressed parts such as bolts, nuts and other fasteners.
Key Differences Between MS and HT:
Tensile Strength: HT steel has a higher tensile strength than mild steel, making it appropriate for use where high tensile strength is required.
Carbon Content: Mild steel has a lesser carbon content than high tensile steel and may contain some alloying elements to enhance the strength.
Ductility and Malleability: It is more ductile and can be shaped easily, but on the other hand, HT steel is stronger but is brittle and can easily crack.
Cost: Mild steel is generally more affordable than HT steel due to the simplicity of its composition and lower manufacturing costs.
Applications: HT is used where higher strength is required and MS is used where the structural requirements are not very high and for other general uses.
Conclusion
Each type has its uses and knowing the differences between MS and HT steels can help you make the right choice for your project. For normal construction and industrial purposes mild steel is recommended because it is low cost while for applications where strength and stress are required high tensile steel is recommended.