3 Uses for Spring Steel that Might Surprise You

Posted by: Mike Baufield on January 17, 2020

Need A Guide?

If you're reading this, the chances are that you probably know what spring steel is used for in a general sense. In case you don't, we'll be sure to cover some of the basics with you before we get into some of the more unorthodox ways that it's used by people across the globe. If you're looking for information on the material itself, you can always download our free guides on annealed spring steel and tempered spring steel by following the links for each.

Did You Know: Falconry Bells Are Made from Phosphor Bronze

Posted by: Mike Baufield on December 17, 2019

When you work for a metal vendor, you end up learning a lot. Especially when it comes to different metals and how they’re used. People typically have some grasp on the most common items made from various metals. Some examples include cookware from stainless steel, electrical wires from copper, construction beams from steel, to name a few. But phosphor bronze isn’t a household name like those other materials are. In general, people are less familiar with it and what it goes into. 

How is Stainless Steel Used in the Food Service Industry?

Posted by: Mike Baufield on December 3, 2019

As we’ve covered before, stainless steel has a wide range of uses. And throughout its history, perhaps its most well-known use has something to do with food. Stainless steel cutlery has been around since the 1910s. Stainless steel sinks were first introduced in the 1930s, and stainless steel cooktops and backsplashes date back to the 1940s and 50s. Not to mention stainless steel in the kitchen really became a household name in the late 1980s when General Electric started pushing stainless steel dishwashers, side-by-side refrigerators, and built-in cooking products in TV advertisements and print materials. 

What are the Strongest Metals?

Posted by: Mike Baufield on November 19, 2019

What is the world’s strongest metal? This is one of those questions that sounds simple enough but is actually quite complex. When it comes to metal, making direct comparisons based on strength doesn’t work. Why? First of all, because there isn’t a single, universal scale for strength. At best, there are four. In today’s blog, I’m going to outline these four types of strength as they relate to metallurgy before giving some insights and comparisons of the metals leading the pack in terms of strength. Let’s get started. 

The Many Uses of Copper in Creating Art

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on November 7, 2019

Copper is well-known as a versatile material with many applications and uses. Oftentimes, the conversation around copper centers around its many functions in everyday life, namely its electrical and thermal conductivity. Because of this attribute, you’ll find copper wiring and copper connectors in your computers, your cell phone, your garage door opener, and in your appliances. But copper’s usefulness doesn’t end there.

Why is Stainless Steel Not Magnetic?

Posted by: Mike Baufield on October 24, 2019

Many of us have an immediate association when we think about stainless steel — anything from kitchen appliances, medical instruments, components for renewable energy technologies, and building construction may come to mind. When you really think about it, chances are you’ll find something made from stainless steel nearly everywhere you look. 

How is Cold Rolled Steel Used for Home Design and Decor?

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on October 8, 2019

When you think of steel, what’s the first thing that pops into your mind? For a lot of people, their minds go to construction, where steel beams form the foundation of sky-high buildings. Others might first think of the automotive industry, where steel accounts for up to 60% of a vehicle’s total weight. The fact of the matter is steel, in some form or another, is around us much of the time. In our buildings, in our vehicles, and even in our home decor.

FAQ Series: What Certifications Can Customers Get with Their Order? [Video]

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on September 25, 2019

Check Out Our New Video!

As you saw in this video, Mike details how Mead Metals works with customers who require material certifications. Below, I've provided an even more in-depth account of how we handle certifications.

Safely Loading Metal Coils with a Forklift [How To]

Posted by: Chris Schwartz on September 10, 2019

Loading, transporting, and storing metal coils is pretty standard procedure at a metal service center, but we realize that might not be the case for other businesses, production facilities, and local artists we work with. Still, regardless of frequency, properly transporting metal coils will keep internal employees safe and protect the product from damage. Two things every business wants. In this blog, I’m providing a basic how-to for safely loading and transporting metal coils with a forklift. Let’s get started.

All About Steel: Cold Rolled vs. Cold Drawn vs. Hot Rolled

Posted by: Brian Rothstein on August 20, 2019

In the steel industry, you may have heard the terms “cold rolled,” “hot rolled,” and “cold drawn.” Understanding how these types of steel are processed, as well as proper applications for each type, is crucial in making sure you are getting the right material for your project. Buying the correct type of steel will save you both time and money, and ensure you are offering the best quality products to your customers.