Corten Steel Stockholder UK - AJ Marshall

Corten Steel: What Is It?

Corten steel, also known as Cor-Ten, is a weather-resistant steel that forms a protective rust layer when exposed to the elements. This self-protecting layer prevents further corrosion, making it highly durable in outdoor applications. Corten steel is a copper-chromium alloy, which gives it superior resistance to atmospheric weathering compared to regular steel. It is used in various structural and architectural applications due to its long life cycle and minimal maintenance needs. We are amongst the top Corten steel suppliers in the UK and proud to provide such an amazing product.

Contact our sales team today on 01423 359111 for a free quote

Contact our sales team today on 01423 359111 for a free quote

Key Properties of Corten Steel

  • Alloy Composition: Copper, chromium, nickel, and phosphorus.
  • Self-protecting: Forms a rust layer that regenerates, providing a protective barrier against further corrosion.
  • Low Maintenance: No need for painting or other treatments under normal conditions.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: The rust layer gives Corten steel a distinctive, rustic look, popular in architectural designs.

Types of Corten Steel

  1. Corten A: Best suited for outdoor and architectural uses, particularly in changing weather conditions.
  2. Corten B: Designed for heavy load-bearing applications.

Advantages of Corten Steel A and Corten Steel B

A major advantage of Corten is that it has anti-corrosive properties that are superior to other structural steels. The two main types of Corten Steel are: Corten A and Corten B. Both have a very long life cycle, which helps to keep costs to a minimum.

Corten steel metal A can be used in outdoor applications that are regularly exposed to changing weather patterns. It also has a superior resistance to scaling at high temperatures. Corten steel metal B is often used in heavy and load bearing structures. All of our Corten Steel is supplied straight from the mill and will be kept in our warehouse with minimal exposure to weather conditions.

It is now available as dual certified S355 J2W+N with CE Test Certs.

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COR-TEN A&B – HOT ROLLED

Cor-ten A&B are weather resistant steel grades optimised through their alloying elements (copper, chromium, nickel and phosphorus) for a variety of environments and purposes. When the total costs over the life cycle of structures are taken into account, significant economic benefits result from using these weathering steels. They are delivered as heavy plates, cut lengths, slit strips and coils.

The anticorrosive properties of weather resistant steels are better than those of other structural steels in many applications. The enhanced weather resistance is based on the oxide layer, i.e. patina. The use of uncoated weather resistant steel in steel structures saves surface treatment costs. The elegantly brown patinated surface is architecturally distinguished. Weather resistant steel in flue gas structures prolongs the service life of chimneys and flue gas ducts.

COR-TEN A – COLD ROLLED

Cor-ten A is a cold rolled weather resistant steel that protects itself. With anticorrosive properties that slow down corrosion, the range includes grades that are in many applications better than those of other structural steels.

The protective layer develops within 18-36 months under normal atmospheric conditions provided that the steel surface regularly becomes wet and dry. At first, the protective layer is reddish brown, but gains a darker hue with time. In an industrial atmosphere the patina is formed quicker and becomes darker in colour than in a rural atmosphere.

Corten Steel Stockholder UK - AJ Marshall

Corten Weathering Accelerator Now Available!

In response to customer demand A.J Marshall can now supply a Corten rust accelerant, de-greaser and varnish. This non-acid based product is ideal for applications where it is not practical to expose Corten to the atmosphere. Rather than waiting up to 18 months for a patina to develop naturally, this quick and easy to use product gives a rusted finish to Corten in a matter of days.

Download Cor-ten weathering steel properties Datasheet

For further details contact Arianne or Steve

Frequently Asked Questions

Processing

We do not do any processing in house. However, we do work alongside trusted local processors such as Cutting Technologies who have a breadth of experience and expertise handing and processing Corten steel.

https://www.cut-tec.co.uk/materials/corten
service@cut-tec.co.uk
Tel: 01226 283322

What is corten steel?

Corten steel, also known as weathering steel, is a group of steel alloys which were developed to eliminate the need for painting. It forms a stable, rust-like appearance after several years’ exposure to weather, protecting the steel underneath. It is popular in architecture and outdoor sculptures due to its aesthetic appeal and durability.

What is corten made of?

Corten steel is a type of steel that is specifically formulated with phosphorus, copper, chromium, and nickel-molybdenum alloys. These unique additions enhance corten steel’s ability to withstand atmospheric corrosion, resulting in the formation of a protective patina on its surface. This remarkable attribute ensures the durability and longevity of corten steel, making it an excellent choice for various applications.

What is corten steel used for?

Corten steel, also known as ‘weathering steel’, is predominantly used in building and art due to its unique rustic appearance and high resistance to the elements. The material is commonly found in bridges, railway cars, urban fixtures like sculptures and outdoor seating, and buildings such as skyscrapers and other high-rise structures.

How long does corten steel take to rust?

Corten steel exhibits a unique self-protecting property. Under natural weather conditions, it can take approximately 6 to 8 months to develop a protective rust layer. This rust layer, while appearing as corrosion, actually serves to protect the underlying steel from further degradation. This process varies depending on the climatic conditions and environmental factors of the location.

Can you weld corten steel?

Yes, Corten steel can be welded. The unique weathering characteristics of Corten steel do not affect its weldability. However, it’s important to use the appropriate welding wire and process to ensure the welds will weather at the same rate as the Corten.

About corten steel edging

Corten steel edging, also known as weathering steel edging, is a popular landscaping material supplied by AJ Marshall that is used to create visually appealing and durable outdoor spaces. It’s a unique type of steel that develops a rust-like appearance over time, adding character to your landscape design. For more detailed information on Corten steel edging and its applications in landscaping, check out this comprehensive guide: Corten Steel Edging for Beautiful Landscaping.

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