The difference between hot rolling and cold rolling

Hot rolled steel plates are made by hot rolling steel billets on a rolling mill after being heated at high temperatures. It has a layer of oxidized iron scale on its surface, which is blue gray in color, with high strength and good toughness, suitable for structural components that can withstand large loads. The dimensional accuracy of hot-rolled plates is average, but the cost is low.

Cold rolled steel plate is made by further pickling and removing oxide scale from hot-rolled plate, and then rolling it at room temperature. The surface is smooth and shiny, with small thickness tolerance, better mechanical properties and surface quality, but obvious work hardening. Cold rolled plates are commonly used for products with high appearance requirements such as precision stamping parts, automotive coverings, and home appliance panels.

Simply put, hot-rolled plates are rough and practical, while cold-rolled plates are exquisite and beautiful. The selection is determined based on the requirements for surface quality, dimensional accuracy, and cost.