Stainless Steel vs. Carbon Steel: What’s the Difference?

Posted by: Mark Anderson on January 27, 2023 | 10 min. read

Different Types of Steel

Steel is the most common metal in the world, making it a versatile material for construction, manufacturing, and many other applications. It is a ferrous alloy composed of approximately 99% iron and 1% carbon. The four types of steel are alloy steel, carbon steel, stainless steel, and tool steel — with stainless and carbon being the most used by volume.

What Is Annealing in Metal?

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on January 16, 2023 | 3 min. read

As anyone in the metal industry will tell you, not all metals are created equal. But that’s because metals are made differently depending on their unique uses. For example, tempering and annealing are methods of heat-treating metal, but both have their differences when it comes to the desired outcome. 

For the purposes of this article, let's focus on the definition of annealed metal, the process for annealing metal, and how it's used.

COMMON USES FOR COLD ROLLED STEEL

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on January 9, 2023 | 3 min. read

Steel, a variant of iron with carbon added, often has other elements added to it in order to prepare it for processing and industrial use. While you may have heard of tempering, not all steelmaking processes involve heating the steel to its recrystallization temperature. Cold rolling, for example, is a popular treatment process that strengthens steel into a product called Cold Rolled Steel.

Common Uses for Copper

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on December 2, 2022 | 3 min. read

Copper has a long history of decorative and functional purposes. In fact, this easily-identifiable golden/reddish material dates back thousands of years. Currently, copper exists in our homes, vehicles, and electronic devices. Today, I'll cover some unique properties and common uses for this versatile, time-tested alloy. 

Metal Compared - Tempered Spring Steel 1075 Vs 1095 [INFOGRAPHIC]

Posted by: Brian Rothstein on December 2, 2022 | 2 min. read

At the end of the day, you want to source materials that suit your project's purpose. Sometimes the focus is on performance and endurance. In other applications, the final product's appearance may be more important than functionality.

Whatever your needs may be, know that Mead Metals will listen to the specifications of your project and help you secure the suitable material for your application. 

Common Uses for Phosphor Bronze

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on November 1, 2022 | 2 min. read

COMMON USES FOR PHOSPHOR BRONZE

Phosphor bronze, commonly known as Phos Bronze, is used to make parts for many industrial fields. It's an alloy of copper containing both tin and phosphorus. This gives the metal more fluidity in its molten state, allowing an easier casting. Today, I'll cover a few of the products and applications where Phosphor Bronze is the ideal material.

Common Uses for Stainless Steel

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on November 1, 2022 | 2 min. read

Stainless steel is 100% recyclable, easy to sterilize, and used in many applications. In fact, ordinary citizens interact with products made of stainless steel on a daily basis. Whether in the kitchen, on the road, at the doctor's office, or in a building, stainless steel is everywhere.

Common Uses for Beryllium Copper

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on October 26, 2022 | 3 min. read

Beryllium Copper has its fair share of common names. You may hear it referred to as BeCu, Copper Beryllium, Beryllium Bronze, Alloy 172, and Spring Copper. Anytime you hear those terms, they're in reference to Beryllium Copper.

Red Iron Range Hoods - A Mead Metals Success Story

Posted by: Brian Rothstein on September 6, 2022 | 2 min. read

Since our start in 1961, Mead Metals has had the opportunity to work with a variety of skilled blacksmiths, business owners, and artisans. Today we would like to feature Mike Route — a Wisconsin–based artist, award-winning blacksmith, and the owner/operator of Red Iron Studio. Among his professional ironwork, Mike has found a unique application for copper sheet metal: custom range hoods. Let’s learn a bit more about Mike, his work, and how Mead Metals helped him get where he is today.

How Long Does Copper Last Outside?

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on August 31, 2022 | 2 min. read

As many of us in the industry know, Copper (CU) tends to be one of the most sought-after metals for outdoor use. Copper’s properties make it durable and highly resistant to corrosion and weather, allowing it to stand the test of time for hundreds to thousands of years. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why many manufacturers, architects, and construction professionals rely on copper for outdoor applications.