High-strength steel is showing up almost everywhere these days thanks to its ability to alter, to improve, the way certain structures are made. AR514 in particular is a conventional quenched and tempered alloy steel plate that is designed for structural applications. Where exactly does that steel appear? Several recent news articles reveal that the uses for steel like AR514 are as diverse as the product itself.
One of the most common applications is in the automotive industry. Chevrolet is just one of the automakers incorporating it into their car and truck designs. Specifically, the Tahoe and Suburban models are earning high marks in the industry, and this steel is playing a part in that accolade. As an Auto Channel review noted, a “stronger body structure with more high-strength steel (makes) for a more solid feel and a quieter cabin” in both SUV styles. On the safety front, vehicle bodies’ increased incorporation of “high-strength steel and ultra-high-strength steel… also contributes to improved crashworthiness.”
In fact, its use is helping the beleaguered auto industry get back on its feet. An Associated Press article published by SouthCoast Today explained that many automakers are making “more use of aluminum and high-strength steel to reduce the weight of cars,” and can do so without compromising performance and safety. The newspaper report went on to highlight the Acura MDX, which is “275 pounds lighter than the previous model, thanks to more extensive use of high-strength steel and aluminum. Acura says that (the weight reduction) gives it a more nimble feel.” and better fuel economy of 23 mpg in combined city and highway driving.
Another industrial use of this steel is occurring in the pipeline industry. Canadian company Enbridge recently announced plans to replace an “existing 34-inch-diameter pipeline with 36-inch high-strength steel pipe.” This change will allow the line to “operate at a maximum capacity of 760,000 barrels per day”, while it “currently operates at 390,000 bpd”, Reuters reported.
This particular steel application is extremely important when it comes to meeting not only the energy needs of North America but the world as well. As Forbes explained in a February article titled “Building a Coalition to Meet America’s Energy Needs,” “Some 220,000 miles of modern, high-strength steel pipelines criss-cross the country, carrying natural gas to fuel businesses, homes and commerce. Yet this infrastructure is not keeping pace with America’s energy boom.” It will take a lot of steel to rectify this problem.
Finally, last month, US President Obama announced plans for a Center for Defense Innovation. The Bloomberg report detailing this announcement explains that the center “will focus on modern and light metal manufacturing.” And it will be that “manufacturers of aluminum, titanium and high-strength steel will work with universities and laboratories in research and development.”
Due to its resistance to heat treatment, AR514 steel is well suited for all of these important structural applications.