Product details table:

Physical and chemical properties:

Physical properties

Appearance:

Carbon steel channel steel usually presents a metallic gray color. Its surface can be smooth or slightly rough, depending on the manufacturing process. Different surface treatments, such as painting, galvanizing, or oiling, can be applied to enhance its appearance and protect it from corrosion.

Density:

The density of carbon steel channel steel generally ranges between 7.80-7.85g/cm³, which is slightly lower than that of stainless steel. For example, common Q235 carbon steel has a density of about 7.85g/cm³, making it relatively heavy compared to other structural materials like aluminum.

Melting point:

The melting point of carbon steel is relatively high, typically around 1425-1540℃. For instance, the melting point of Q235 carbon steel is approximately 1450-1500℃, which ensures good performance in high-temperature environments.

Coefficient of thermal expansion:

The coefficient of thermal expansion of carbon steel is moderate. In the range of room temperature to 100℃, the coefficient of thermal expansion for Q235 carbon steel is approximately 12×10⁻⁶/℃. This property allows it to maintain dimensional stability in environments with large temperature fluctuations.

Thermal conductivity:

The thermal conductivity of carbon steel is relatively good, with a thermal conductivity coefficient ranging from 45-55W/(m・K). This is significantly higher than stainless steel but lower than metals like copper or aluminum, making it suitable for applications requiring heat dissipation.

Electrical conductivity:

Carbon steel has moderate electrical conductivity, but it is much lower than copper or aluminum. The electrical conductivity of Q235 carbon steel is about 7×10⁶ S/m, which is only about 10% of the conductivity of copper.

Chemical properties

Corrosion resistance:

Carbon steel has limited corrosion resistance compared to stainless steel. Without protective coatings, it is prone to rust when exposed to moisture, oxygen, or corrosive environments. Surface treatments like galvanizing, painting, or coating are essential to improve its corrosion resistance. For example, galvanized carbon steel channel bars are widely used in outdoor applications due to their enhanced durability.

Antioxidation:

Carbon steel has poor oxidation resistance at high temperatures. When exposed to prolonged high-temperature environments, it may oxidize and lose strength. Alloys with added elements like chromium or molybdenum can improve its oxidation resistance, but standard carbon steel is not suitable for extreme heat conditions.

Chemical stability:

In general chemical environments, carbon steel has moderate chemical stability. However, it reacts easily with strong acids, alkalis, or corrosive chemicals. For example, exposure to sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid can lead to rapid corrosion, limiting its use in highly aggressive chemical environments.

Passivation:

Unlike stainless steel, carbon steel does not naturally form a passivation film. To prevent corrosion, additional protective measures such as galvanizing, painting, or applying anti-rust oils are required. These treatments provide a barrier layer that prevents direct contact between the steel surface and corrosive agents.

Application:

Carbon steel channel bars are widely used in various fields due to their excellent mechanical properties, affordability, and ease of processing. In the construction industry, they are commonly used to create structural frames, beams, and supports for buildings and bridges. In machinery manufacturing, they are used to fabricate machine bases, frames, and components that require high strength. In the transportation sector, they are used in vehicle frames, trailers, and railway structures. Additionally, in fields like energy infrastructure and industrial equipment, carbon steel channel bars are indispensable. They are used to manufacture supports, brackets, and structural components, adapting well to a variety of working conditions.