There are three main visual differences between the two processes.
Difference between hot rolled and cold rolled sheet metal.
Hot rolled steel involves rolling the steel at high temperatures where cold rolled steel is processed further in cold reduction mills where the material is cooled followed by annealing and or tempers rolling.
There are some fundamental differences between these two types of metal.
Basic difference between hot rolled and cold rolled steel is the way they are processed.
Some of the advantages of cold rolled steel definitely have to do with regards to product precision.
Furthermore cold rolled steel is considered to be more durable compared to hot rolled steel.
When to use hot rolled steel.
As an example a hot rolled steel product may have a yield strength of 235 mpa.
The dimensions of the final product are more precise and square with a sharper edge and cold rolled steel sheet can hold tighter tolerances than hot rolled when machined or otherwise fabricated.
Whereas cold rolled steel is processed in cold reduction mills followed by annealing and tempering.
Alternatively cold rolled steel has sharp edges a very smooth surface texture and an oily or greasy feel to it.
Nevertheless other advantages of cold rolling include a good finish a high rate of production and a fast molding speed.
The differences between hot rolled steel and cold rolled steel relates to the way these metals are processed at the mill and not the product specification or grade.
Hot rolled steel has rounded edges a rough surface texture and no grease on its finish.
Hot rolled steel involves rolling the steel above re crystallization temperatures.
In general cold rolled and cold formed steel costs more than hot rolled steel because of the extra processing steps.
The rolls induce plastic deformation.