What is Steel?

In the beginning, there was iron, one of the most abundant metals in the earth's crust. Found in various forms combined with other elements, iron's journey began as early as 1700 B.C. in Europe, where the Hittites mastered its extraction. The age-old process of heating alternating layers of ore and wood or charcoal yielded raw iron, paving the way for advancements in metallurgy.

Cloud Gate is a 110-ton elliptical sculpture of highly polished stainless steel plates.

The evolution continued with the advent of cast iron in the 15th century. The introduction of "high forges" led to the discovery of liquid ferrous metal, which revolutionized manufacturing, allowing for the mass production of items like cooking pots and cannonballs. This transformative era enabled the production of iron in substantial quantities, leading to greater efficiency and innovation.

The pivotal moment for steel came in 1786 when French scientists Berthollet, Monge, and Vandermonde unraveled the intricate relationship between iron, cast iron, and steel. However, it was the inventions of the 19th century, notably the Bessemer process, that skyrocketed steel production. By the early 20th century, global steel output soared to 28 million tons, a sixfold increase since 1880.

Today, steel is a versatile metal formed by adding carbon to iron, typically comprising 0.02% to 2% carbon. This seemingly simple addition significantly enhances its properties, resulting in various grades tailored for specific applications. With over 3,000 cataloged grades, including alloy steels enriched with elements like nickel and chromium, steel continues to meet the challenges of modern engineering and construction.

As we look to the future, steel remains an essential material, reinforcing infrastructure, powering industries, and shaping a sustainable world. Its remarkable journey from iron ore to a cornerstone of modern civilization exemplifies the ingenuity and resilience of human innovation.