Are you among the many people in the manufacturing industry who do not know about ASTM A666 in general? Fortunately for you, this will help you understand what it is and how it can help your business.
Out of the overall production of steel across the world, approximately 40% of that is constructed using recycled metal. You might notice how using combined metals and thin steel sheets is an important part of many industrial applications in the manufacturing industry. Among the sectors that use thin metal strips and other types of metal in their products include transportation, medical, and construction industries.
The automotive sector employs thin sheet metal and thin aluminum strips in a variety of applications. And the production of the automobile bodywork is where these metals are obviously most used. These crucial components are also widely used in the production of railroad cars, locomotives, and even in manufacturing planes.
What Does ASTM A666 Mean?
So, what exactly is ASTM A666?
The ASTM A666 is the industry standard for austenitic stainless steel. It defines how the metal is either cooled or heated for different uses and applications. It also specifies how the metal’s chemical composition must meet particular criteria and that the material should be produced into thin metal strips, plates, bars, or sheets.
The aluminum, steel, or metal used must maintain specific mechanical qualities or properties. Such examples include yield strength, elongation, tensile strength, and overall hardness. Tests performed on the metal include free bend, tension, and controlled bend.
How It Benefits Your Business
The most noticeable application of stainless steel and other thin metal strips in the construction industry would be in roofing materials. But you will also see these metals often used for manufacturing conductor pipes and rain gutters, among other things.
Thin metals can also benefit the healthcare industry because they can also be used for manufacturing medical equipment. The following advantages will make you understand how vital these materials are for your production needs:
Durability and Sturdiness
Some people can’t believe how very sturdy and durable thin metal strips are. They think that way because these thin sheets can be cut readily and bend easily. However, it’s far from reality.
Thin metal sheets are durable enough to survive a variety of weather conditions and harsh environmental factors. The materials can also withstand different conditions and circumstances encountered throughout the procedures and operations involved in manufacturing.
As a result, it’s critical for you to select the right alloy to use for whichever manufacturing technique is needed for your project. Stainless steel is always a good choice for outdoor applications because it is resistant to rust and corrosion. Plus, it is sturdy enough to survive adverse weather conditions.
On the other hand, copper will be your best choice if you need electrical conductivity for electric wiring and other components.
Easy and Quick Modifications
If you want your metal to be compatible with the various processes and operations involved in your production, it must have high versatility, utility, and function. Thin metal sheets allow for easy modifications, and they can be customized and cut to match whatever needs your project entails.
With this in mind, always convey accurate and clear specifications to your supplier. This way, they can modify the metal according to your customization needs and deliver the right products for your project.
Various Options to Choose From
You can’t just choose whatever material to use for your production and manufacturing needs. As always, the metal used should be appropriate for how it will be used. With thin metals, you have a variety of choices and alternatives that you will seldom go wrong.
Among the metal alloys available, you can choose to go with aluminum, stainless steel, or carbon steel. You also have the choice to use copper and brass. Just make sure to go with the metal with composition and qualities that will be best suited to meet your production requirements.
Only Use the Best Metal for Your Manufacturing Needs
Now you know how the different advantages listed above will be beneficial for your industrial business. So if you’re still not using thin sheet metals like 17-7 stainless for your manufacturing production projects, you might be convinced to do so now. Not only are they readily available, affordable, and durable, but they can also be customized quickly and easily to meet your demands.