Definition Cold Rolled Coil - Production Process And Applications

The cold-rolled coil product is appreciated for its diverse applications and outstanding advantages. So how is cold rolled steel manufactured and what are its current popular applications, all questions will be answered in the article below!

Hunter Special Steel Co., Ltd Product Page

What is the cold rolled coil?

Cold-rolled steel (trademarked CRC) is generated at the final stage of making steel from billet. Cold rolled coils are produced based on steel billets at low temperatures, more specifically, CRC has origin from hot rolled steel, then it will be processed through a cool process to make the surface become smooth and improve eye-catching brightness.

Features of cold rolled coils 

Cold rolled coil often possesses a glossy surface by an oil layer treated in the rolling process. Besides the smooth surface, the product also offers outstanding durability advantages 20% higher than hot rolled coil. Along with that, cold rolled coil also has good impact resistance and ductile properties, so it is easy to bend and cut on requests.

However, because it is still a metal, the cold rolled coil is easy to oxidize if it is not well preserved. Specifically, when the product exists in highly acidic or alkaline environments as well as it has to suffer from harsh weather environments, it will easily cause the steel surface to rust. To overcome this situation, the manufacturer usually has to periodically maintain it by applying a layer of oil to create a protective film for the steel core.

Process production of cold rolled coils

The steel production process will have to go through many separate stages that require strict control to ensure the hardness of the steel and avoid the case that the compositional elements are changed during the period of production.

• Stage 1 - Preparation of input materials and removing rust surface: the main input material of cold rolled coil is hot rolled coil. Hot rolled coil often brings low aesthetics through the rough appearance, so the manufacturer will proceed to spray a specialized acid directly on the surface to clean it.
• Stage 2 - Cold rolling stage: the manufacturer will use mechanical force with oil to roll the steel at a low temperature which is equal to room temperature at that time. This cold rolling process has the effect of making the steel structure stronger as well as changing the surface of the steel. However, in principle, the cold rolling process only changes the steel structure and it will keep the original steel's compositions. Because of those technical standards, cold rolling stages will require strict control in order to avoid surface cracking due to excessive force.
• Stage 3 - Soft annealing: steels that have undergone the cold rolling process will often be in hard condition, so they will be treated with a next step, which is soft annealing. The steel will now be annealed in an electric furnace containing 100% hydrogen gas to help remove the hardness after rolling, enhancing the ductility of the steel to make use of construction applications.

Application in specific fields

Depending on outstanding advantages such as shiny appearance, good loading resistance, cold rolled coil is widely used in the construction, manufacturing and mechanical industries. It also shows some benefits to human daily life. Specifically, some popular areas include:

• Construction works: taking advantage of the sturdy structure thanks to the low carbon content, people often use CRC for many construction purposes. Some practical applications in popular construction include making structural frames, purlins, ...
• Machine parts, spare parts for automobile and aircraft equipment
• Household and consumer appliances: refrigerators, air conditioners, stoves,...

Looking for cold rolled coil suppliers directly from Vietnamese factories

Since the company was established and entered the market until now, MRS Steel has always maintained our mission of being a pioneer in the field of providing comprehensive steel solutions for international importers. Recognizing the important role of cold rolled steel, MRS Steel has been present and accompanies you in finding reputable sources.

Steel is available in a variety of shapes, sizes, grades, and specifications, enabling its utilization in numerous applications. Each type of steel possesses unique properties, which can be optimized to meet individual requirements.

When discussing the properties of steel materials, the terms “hot-rolled” and “cold-rolled” steel often arise. This article aims to explore the significant disparities between hot and cold-rolled steel, including their respective manufacturing processes.

Why is Steel Rolled?

The terms hot-rolled steel and cold-rolled steel come from the process of producing the steel. Rolling is employed to enhance specific properties of the steel, such as its mechanical characteristics, shape, and uniformity.

The pronounced dissimilarities between hot-rolled steel and cold-rolled steel make them suitable for diverse applications.

The company is the world’s best Stainless Steel Cold Rolled Coils supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

Image Credit: Masteel UK Ltd

Hot-Rolled Steel

Hot rolled steel undergoes roll pressing at extremely high temperatures, often exceeding 926 °C or °F, surpassing the standard recrystallization temperature of steel. The elevated temperatures enable easier forming and shaping of the steel.

Once the steel is rolled into the desired shape, it is allowed to cool. During the cooling process, the steel undergoes slight shrinkage, resulting in less control over the final product’s shape and size.

Consequently, hot-rolled steel is typically utilized in applications where dimensional tolerances are not critically important, meaning that precise dimensions are not crucial.

Cold-Rolled Steel

Cold-rolled steel follows a similar process as hot-rolled steel, with an additional stage of processing. After the hot-rolled steel has cooled, it undergoes further rolling to achieve specific dimensions, enhanced surface finishes, and improved mechanical properties.  

When steel sheets are rolled, they undergo compression between rollers, which helps to produce a more specific and refined steel product. It is worth noting that although the term ‘cold-rolled’ is used for all products, technically, cold-rolled products are flat-rolled sheets and coil products only.

Various cold-finishing processes, such as turning, grinding, polishing, and drawing, are commonly employed in the manufacture of steel bars or tubes.

Cold and Hot-Rolled Steel with Masteel

Masteel provides a diverse selection of hot-rolled and cold-rolled steels suitable for various applications. Among Masteel’s popular product range are the S500MC and S550MC high-yield steels, as well as certified steel angles.

S550MC

The S550MC represents hot-rolled, high-yield steel that adheres to the EN: Part 2 specification. This steel exhibits exceptional properties for cold forming and finds application in various fields, including cold-rolled sections, steel-framed structures, and structural pipes.

Masteel, a UK-based steel supplier, boasts decades of experience and extensive industry knowledge. Masteel’s commitment to delivering top-notch steel products is matched by its dedication to providing excellent customer service, ensuring its steels meet your specific requirements.

This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Masteel UK Ltd.

Want more information on Steel Cold Rolled Coil? Feel free to contact us.