How to Buy the Right Bridge Steel

By Jeff Weigang

Steel Properties

Steel offers a variety of different benefits and properties. These vary based upon the construction of the steel. Elements can be added into the steel in order to affect the strength, tensile load, workability, corrosion resistance, and more.

When you are in the market for bridge steel, it is important to identify the properties that are most important to you. It will make it easier to buy the steel that will have the greatest impact on your project. If you purchase steel that isn't capable of meeting your needs, you put the entire project at risk. This could lead to failing inspections or problems with the bridge structure later on. Either way, you want to avoid risk - and this means choosing the right steel to use from the very beginning.

Suppliers

The supplier you go through for your steel is going to have an impact on your project. The supplier will be the one responsible for supplying you with the steel, the quantity you request, as well as the cost that you pay.

There are several questions to ask of a supplier before you sign a contract and start doing business with them. You will want to find out the quality of steel, the various properties, the amount of time it takes for them to complete your order, as well as the costs. You should find out whether you have to pick up the steel or whether they are delivering it and whether you qualify for any special pricing based upon the quantity you are buying.

Costs & Quantities

Every project is different. A small residential bridge on your land versus a large bridge used for mass public transportation will affect the amount of steel that you need as well as the costs involved with the project.

Not all suppliers supply steel for all purposes. If you only require a small amount of steel, you need to identify this when searching for a supplier. Similarly, if you need a significant amount of steel beams, you need to let a supplier know the quantities you are looking at.

Buying the right steel for bridge construction is of the upmost importance. You need to make sure that it is structurally sound and is capable of being manipulated in the way that is needed to form the design you have drafted. Identify the type of steel you need and choose a supplier that is capable of outfitting you with all of the materials. When in doubt, ask questions from a supplier or from an organization dedicated to safety and excellence, such as the ABS.

Ranger Steel has always strived to form personal relationships with customers in a wide variety of industries. The industries we serve are as follows: ship building, oil and gas, mining, light and heavy commercial and industrial construction; service centers; as well as fabricators for heavy plate, vessel and heat exchangers, storage tanks, bridges, electrical transmission, and railcars.