5 Differences Between American and Imported Steel

 5 Differences Between American and Imported Steel

Steel is among the most sought-after metals in the construction industry. Imported steel is becoming a major driving force in the U.S. steel market, with the U.S. ranking as the biggest steel importer in 2019. However, imported steel has affected the U.S. steel market because it’s unable to compete, especially when it comes to prices. In 2018, the U.S. government imposed a 25% tariff on all foreign steel imports to minimize the disparity between domestic and foreign prices and enhance conditions for all domestic steel producers.

 

Despite the imposed tariff, steel remains quite competitive, particularly in cost. As a result, every buyer needs to consider other important factors before making their purchase. So, should you go with imported steel or American-made steel? The variables discussed below will help you make an informed decision when undertaking your next construction project in Maine.

1. Manufacturing Standards

One of the major differences between imported steel and American-made steel is that American steel is held to a defined set of standards created by the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) and other U.S. organizations. These standards determine the proper chemistry combinations for the various types of steel. They also act as a safety precaution that ensures steel producers use the appropriate metals in the manufacturing process.

2. Thickness

On average, American-made steel is eight times thicker than China-manufactured steel. This disparity means that products you make from American steel will be heavier and more durable. Furthermore, high-quality steel structures and products are thick and difficult to penetrate or breach.

3. Quality

American-made steel goes through rigorous testing before producers can take it to the market. Like the manufacturing standards, the tests ensure that the steel is strong enough to prevent brittleness and cracks during welding. They also ensure the steel is of high quality to keep your buildings and other steel structures in Maine standing after earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters.

4. Strength

American steel is undoubtedly stronger than foreign steel because it is thicker, is of better quality, and has low oxidation levels. The inferior quality of imported steel means that items you make using the metal will break or fail faster than those you build with American-made steel.

5. Environmental Impact

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) controls emissions and any other environmental impact for American manufacturing. It sets the emission standards for harmful air pollutants and enforces them to safeguard the environment. Some steel importers’ standards are very lenient in this area. Therefore, depending on their steel products or steel will only contribute to global warming and adverse health effects.

 

The type of steel you use in a building can break or make your construction projects. When purchasing steel for your construction projects, go with American steel when possible. According to the EPA, this type of steel is more environmentally friendly, durable, thicker, and stronger than imported steel because of rigorous testing and stricter guidelines.

 

 

 

For professional help with your next construction project in Maine, contact American Aerial Services. Our vibrant team of NCCCO-certified crane operators and AISC certified steel assemblers can handle any construction project regardless of its size, shape, and degree of complexity, thanks to our knowledge and state-of-the-art equipment.