Difference Between Low Silicon Steel and High Silicon Steel

As we know, silicon steel is a specialized steel alloy with silicon content varying from 0.5% to 4.5%. The silicon content plays a crucial role in determining its properties, uses, and costs. Generally, it can be divided into low silicon steel and high silicon steel according to industry standards, which greatly influences its magnetic property, mechanical strength, practical usage, and total cost. So, what is the difference between low silicon steel and high silicon steel? Keep reading for more details now.

Low Vs High Silicon Steel, What is the Difference?

There exist differences between low silicon steel and high silicon steel. It primarily stems from the variance in their silicon content, a factor that bestows upon them significant implications for their mechanical properties, magnetic properties, corrosion resistance, applied sectors, and total cost. Let’s see below.

1. Silicon Content

The main difference lies in their silicon content.

Low silicon steel, by and large, contains less than 0.5% silicon, whereas high silicon steel boasts a silicon content that ranges from 1.5% to 5.5%. This divergence in silicon content directly influences the characteristics and performance of these steels in profound ways, rendering them suitable for specific applications.

2. Mechanical Properties

Low silicon steel results in improved formability, making it easier to shape and mold the steel into desired forms. Besides, it also contributes to improved weldability and increased ductility, allowing for the efficient joining of low silicon steel components.

However, it is important to note that the mechanical properties and performance of low silicon steel may vary depending on other alloying elements and the specific manufacturing processes employed.

High silicon steel, on the other hand, provides more toughness and brittlement.

3. Magnetic Properties

Another significant distinction manifests itself in the magnetic properties of low silicon steel and high silicon steel.

Low silicon steel, with its diminished magnetic permeability, emerges as the optimal choice for applications that necessitate reduced magnetic interference. Conversely, high silicon steel, with its heightened magnetic permeability, assumes its rightful place in endeavors that call for efficient magnetic induction or shielding.

4. Electrical Conductivity

Electrical conductivity is affected by the silicon’s presence in steel.

Low silicon steel exhibits lower electrical conductivity due to low silicon content.

Conversely, high silicon steel, with its superior electrical conductivity, emerges as the preferred choice for endeavors that mandate efficient electrical transmission.

5. Corrosion Resistance

Low silicon steel, has higher corrosion resistance and proves itself more fitting for environments where exposure to moisture or corrosive substances looms as a concern.

High silicon steel, though generally less resistant to corrosion, can be tailored to exhibit improved resistance through the infusion of other alloying elements.

6. Applications

Both are widely used in the manufacturing of the cores of transformers, motors, and generators. However, their applied fields have some differences.

Low silicon steel is ideal for manufacturing components in the automotive industry, such as body panels, chassis parts, and structural components. Additionally, low silicon steel is also employed in the production of household appliances, construction materials, and general engineering applications.

High silicon steel, finds extensive employment in electrical engineering, where it serves as a key component in the fabrication of power transformers, inductors, and other magnetic apparatus. The high magnetic permeability and low core loss exhibited by high silicon steel contribute to the efficient transmission and distribution of electrical power. Other notable applications of high silicon steel include magnetic shielding, magnetic sensors, and specialized structural applications that benefit from its unique amalgamation of properties.

7. Cost

High silicon steel is more expensive than low silicon steel products.

Conclusion

It becomes evident that there exist differences between low silicon steel and high silicon steel. Low silicon steel, with a silicon content of less than 0.5%, possesses mechanical properties, rendering it a most fitting choice for employment in automotive components. Conversely, high silicon steel, with its augmented silicon content, ranging from 1% to 4.5%, presents unparalleled magnetic properties, thus endowing it with an enviable suitability for deployment in electrical engineering. Each variant of silicon steel proffers its unique advantages and may be tailored to meet the specific demands of various industries. Thus, a thorough comprehension of these differences proves of utmost importance when selecting the most apt silicon steel for a given project.