Content Attributes
Steel is essential in our daily lives and has significantly contributed to the industrial revolution. Without the metal alloy, there would have been no cars, buildings, homes, fridges, washing machines, etc. Our ever-evolving world today depends significantly on steel. It makes steel a unique material because of its recyclability and, thus, sustainability.
Steel is the most recycled material in the world, and most of its by-products can be recycled and reused. Because it is easily recyclable, it is greener than other metals. Additionally, recycled steel can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 80%.
Steel has been ruling the world through the ages, and the earlier known evidence of steel-making dates back to 4000 BC. The anti-corrosive material has been since widely adopted as one of the most used materials globally. Most household items are made of steel; simply put, they have become an inevitable part of everyday life. This article discusses the various applications of steel in our daily lives.
Water
Steel plays a pivotal role in ensuring everyone has access to drinking water. It has helped address the water supply challenge and fulfill the increasing demand for safe drinking water. Its excellent corrosion resistance property makes steel suitable for distributing and storing water. Additionally, since steel is highly durable, it requires minimal maintenance efforts. Steel frames can cover boreholes in filter tanks, through which fresh water is transported to the point of use.
It is incorporated into the plumbing system and used to construct water infrastructures such as canals, sewers, and rainwater harvesting in and around cities. Steel bridges and tunnels make it simple to navigate the water. Moreover, steel barriers are often installed in areas prone to floods and hurricanes.
Food
Food-grade stainless steel is made through the steel forging process and has found its way to several kitchen utilities and appliances. It plays an essential role in every stage of food production, including-
- Agriculture (Storage tanks, fences, machinery, electrical appliances)
- Production (Machinery, tools)
- Preservation (Refrigerators)
- Distribution (Transportation, steel creates, trolleys, trucks, etc.)
- Inventory (Bulk storage tanks)
- Final Food preparation (Cutlery, Food pans, Knives)
- Presentation (Display racks, modular cake stands, cookware, cutlery)
Several unique characteristics of stainless steel make it safe for the food industry.
- It can withstand high temperatures.
- Durable and super easy to clean.
- Resistant to most chemicals.
Construction
Steel forms the foundation of modern construction. Steel is the building block of the construction industry, whether it’s steel frames, trailers, homes, roofing, buildings, skyscrapers, and more. Due to its durable and versatile nature, it is an excellent material used in basic houses and luxury apartments and can help a structure last for years.
With its high tensile strength, steel is the material of choice for designers and architects in building bridges. Moreover, steel can withstand external natural forces such as earthquakes, storms, floods, etc. Not just this, steel is also a part of what goes inside the buildings, from freezers and almirahs to air conditioners. Steel is cost-effective and readily found in the market, making it easier to source.
Communication
Steel is used in almost all types of human communication in some manner. For example, steel printing machines are used to create newspapers and books. Calculators and pens are made of steel. All mobile communication is possible through steel antenna towers. Toys, radars, and satellites have built-in radio transmitters made of steel.
Final Words
Steel is everywhere and blends well with other materials to create remarkable products that drive growth and economy. The future of steel seems safe, and it will continue to be as crucial in tackling the problems of the next 100 years in daily lives.