Hot rolled steel is roll-pressed at over 1,700 degrees F, making it easier to form and leading to products that are easier to work with.
Because hot rolled steel is cooled and shrinks after processing, there is less control over its final shape, meaning it isn't as suitable for precision applications. Instead, HRS steel is more likely to be used in applications where precise dimensions aren't critical. Construction projects typically use HRS material.
Cold rolled steel is essentially hot rolled steel with extra processing. After the hot rolled steel has cooled, it is rolled again at room temperature for more precise dimensions and a better surface finish.
The term cold "rolled" steel typically describes a range of finishing processes, but it technically applies only to sheets that undergo compression between rollers. When referring to pulled steel, such as bars or tubes, "cold finishing" consists of cold drawing, turning, grinding, and polishing operations.
CR Cold Rolled Steel Sheet
Hot Rolled (HR) and Cold Rolled (CR) steel methods shape the world of sheet metal fabrication. HR steel, ideal for large scale, structural applications, contrasts with CR steel, favored for precision and a polished finish in materials such as stainless steel. The choice between HR and CR steel can drastically affect a project's outcome.
Cold rolled steel demonstrates up to 20% greater strength than hot rolled steel, making it more suitable for high-stress applications. However, the additional material strength and hardness produced by the cold rolling process come at a price: more significant internal stresses.
These stresses must be relieved before the material can be processed, or the cold finished steel part or product will likely warp.