Steel is quite the interesting material, as it has provided the framework for the formation of modern society. If it wasn’t for the discovery and implementation of steel in the early 1900s, our world would be exceptionally different — it provides the structure for our daily lives in more ways than one.
We’ve all heard about steel, but chances are you don’t know much about this interesting material. Here are some interesting facts about the steel industry that will make you think.
1. Steel is one of the most recycled materials on the planet. The American Iron and Steel Institute estimates that a full 88% of the steel in the world is recycled. And recycling steel is exceptionally beneficial to the environment as for every ton of steel recycled, about 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400 pounds of coal, and 120 pounds of limestone are saved.
2. Steel can be recycled without losing any of its strength. In its natural form, steel is about 1,000 times stronger than iron. It can be recycled without losing any of this strength, and it can even become stronger by adding galvanized steel strapping, which adds a protective coating that prevents rust formation.
3. Steel is helpful when it comes to renewable resources. Steel is the main material used when it comes to delivering solar, hydro, and wind power. This is because steel is the primary material used when making wind turbines and solar panels.
4. Skyscrapers first were built with steel. Steel was first used in skyscrapers back in 1884 with the building of the Home Insurance Building in Chicago. Other popular steel skyscrapers include the Empire State Building in New York City and the U.S. Steel Tower in Pittsburgh, which are specially designed to assemble and disassemble easily in a series of pieces.
5. The global steel industry is huge. The steel industry is the second largest industry in the world, only behind oil and gas. Globally it employs over 2 million people and is growing every single year.
Steel is without a doubt one of the most versatile materials in the world. So keep these fun facts in mind next time you see steel, and hopefully, you’ll have a whole new appreciation for this interesting product.
