December 22, 2025
Steel is not a single, uniform material. Thanks to different production methods, carbon contents, and alloying elements, many types of steel have been developed. This diversity allows steel to be used safely in construction, industry, and areas that require high precision.
In this article, you will find comprehensive and clear answers to questions such as what the types of steel are, according to which criteria they are classified, and where each type of steel is used.
How Are Steel Types Classified?
Steel types are generally classified according to four main criteria:
By production method
By carbon content
By alloy structure
By intended use
This classification ensures that the right steel is used in the right application. Incorrect steel selection can lead to high costs, low performance, and long-term structural problems.
Steel Types by Production Method
The production method directly affects the mechanical properties and surface quality of steel. For this reason, it is one of the most commonly used classifications in industry.
What Is Hot-Rolled Steel?
Hot-rolled steel is obtained by shaping steel above its recrystallization temperature. Thanks to this high temperature, steel is easily formed and internal stresses are largely eliminated.
Properties of Hot-Rolled Steel
High strength
Wide dimensional tolerances
Rougher surface texture
Production advantage in large cross-sections
Advantages
Production cost is relatively low
Ideal for large and heavy structural elements
High structural strength
Disadvantages
Low dimensional accuracy
Surface quality is weaker compared to cold-rolled steel
Areas of Use
Construction and structural steels
Bridges and steel constructions
Heavy industry and machine frames
What Is Cold-Rolled Steel?
Cold-rolled steel is obtained by shaping steel at room temperature or at low temperatures. This method gives steel high dimensional accuracy and a smooth surface.
Properties of Cold-Rolled Steel
High dimensional tolerance
Smooth and bright surface
Controlled mechanical properties
More homogeneous structure
Advantages
Ideal for applications requiring precise dimensions
High surface quality
Provides a more aesthetic appearance
Disadvantages
Higher production cost
Not suitable for large cross-sections
Areas of Use
Automotive industry
Machine and equipment parts
Shafts, pins, and fasteners
Differences Between Hot-Rolled and Cold-Rolled Steel
Hot-rolled and cold-rolled steels show significant differences in terms of production temperature, surface quality, dimensional tolerance, and areas of use. These differences are summarized in the table below. To examine the topic in full detail, you can review our content titled differences between hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel.
| Feature | Hot-Rolled Steel | Cold-Rolled Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Production temperature | High | Low |
| Dimensional accuracy | Low | High |
| Surface quality | Medium | High |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Area of use | Structural applications | Precision parts |
Types of Steel by Carbon Content
As the carbon content in steel increases, hardness and strength increase, but ductility decreases. For this reason, carbon content is one of the fundamental factors that determine where steel is used.
Low-Carbon Steel
Low-carbon steels generally contain 0.05% – 0.25% carbon.
Properties:
Easy to form
High weldability
Relatively soft
Areas of Use:
Sheet metal products
Pipes
Light structural elements
Medium-Carbon Steel
Medium-carbon steels contain 0.25% – 0.60% carbon.
Properties:
Balanced hardness and strength
Properties can be improved with heat treatment
Areas of Use:
Machine parts
Gears
Shafts and axles
High-Carbon Steel
High-carbon steels have a carbon content of over 0.60%.
Properties:
Very high hardness
Low ductility
Resistance to wear
Areas of Use:
Cutting tools
Springs
Knife and mold applications
Types of Steel by Alloy Structure
Alloy steels gain special properties through elements added to the basic iron–carbon structure.
Alloy Steel
Alloy steels contain elements such as chromium, nickel, and molybdenum.
Advantages:
High temperature resistance
Increased strength
Specialized industrial performance
Stainless Steel
Stainless steels contain a high amount of chromium and are resistant to corrosion.
Properties:
Resistance to rust
Hygienic structure
Aesthetic appearance
Areas of Use:
Food and healthcare sector
Chemical industry
Decorative applications
Tool and Die Steels
These steels are used in applications that require high hardness and wear resistance.
Areas of Use:
Mold manufacturing
Cutting tools
Industrial tools
Types of Steel by Intended Use
Structural steels: Construction and load-bearing systems
Automotive steels: Balance of lightness and strength
Energy and pressure vessel steels: High safety requirements
Defense industry steels: Superior strength and performance
Which Type of Steel Should Be Used Where?
Choosing the right steel:
Extends the service life of the project
Reduces maintenance costs
Increases safety
For this reason, the properties and types of steel must always be evaluated according to the intended use.
For detailed information about the basic structure and properties of steel, you can review our content titled “What Is Steel? What Are Its Properties?”.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It depends on the intended use. Alloy steels and heat-treated steels offer high strength.
Hot-rolled steel is preferred for structural applications, while cold-rolled steel is preferred for precision parts.
No. Stainless and alloy steels are resistant to corrosion.
Load, environmental conditions, cost, and intended use should be taken into account.
Steel types offer different properties based on production method, carbon content, and alloy structure. This diversity makes steel an indispensable material in modern industry. Using the right type of steel in the right place provides significant advantages in terms of both performance and long-term cost.
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