Confused by why are steel coils so heavy? You are not alone. This tutorial explains what makes them heavy and how to handle them effectively.
Steel coils are heavy because they consist of tightly wound sheets of dense metal. Their weight depends on material type, thickness, width, and length. Most coils weigh between 7โ15 tons, but some can exceed 30 tons. Their compact shape hides just how much material is packed inside.
Let’s go over the important information concerning heavy steel coils that every buyer or distributor should be aware of.
How Heavy Are Steel Coils?
Many purchasers only discover the full steel coil weight when it comes time to ship or unload. A normal steel coil weighs between 7 and 15 tons, whereas larger industrial coils weigh up to 30 tons. This is determined by the quality of steel, sheet thickness, and total length.
The weight of a carbon steel coil, for example, rises dramatically with each millimeter of thickness. A hot-rolled steel coil that is 3mm thick and 1250mm broad might easily weigh more than 20 tons, depending on its length. This weight must be determined precisely for logistics planning, whether putting steel coils into a vehicle or preparing for container transportation. In your quotation, always request comprehensive coil specifications as well as weight per coil or per metric ton.
Why Is Steel Coil Heavy?
The material’s physical qualities and processing methods contribute to its overpowering weight. Steel coils are heavy due to their high density and the compact rolling procedure, which reduces gap between layers.
Steel has a density of 7.85 g/cmยณ. Unlike porous materials, galvanized steel coils or stainless steel coils have no holes inside. Furthermore, coils might be quite large and lengthy. A single tightly coiled roll may store hundreds of meters of sheet metal. Heavier coils minimize handling time and enable for large-scale application in manufacturing and construction, but they must be handled with caution to avoid overloading equipment.
How Do You Lift a Steel Coil?
Lifting steel coils wrongly is a major source of occupational accidents and product damage in warehouses and ports. Steel coils must be raised using the appropriate equipment, such as C-hooks, coil lifters, or forklifts fitted with V-block cradles.
When raising a copper coil or a huge aluminum coil, it’s critical to align the tool with the coil’s positionโhorizontal (eye-to-side) or vertical (eye-to-sky). Overhead cranes frequently utilize spinning tongs, but trucks may use cradle-shaped containers to hold coils stable. Never use straps or chains that may damage or unbalance the load. Check all equipment’s weight capacity and make sure personnel are trained to handle big metal coils.
Are Steel Coils Dangerous?
Absolutely. Mishandling a massive steel coil can result in property damage and even deadly accidents. Steel coils are dangerous if not properly secured; their weight and form allow them to roll, move, and fall.
Steel coil accidents frequently occur when a coil moves during truck transit or becomes imbalanced when being lifted. A abrupt shift might collapse cargo containers and tip over forklifts. Always use adequate bracing techniques like chocks, edge guards, and anti-slip mats. International standards such as ASTM and ISO provide safety rules for storage and transportation. Prioritize supplier dependability and verify that all safety procedures are followed during loading and unloading.
Why Are Steel Coils Transported Upright?
You’ve probably noticed steel coils on truck beds standing uprightโit’s not just for looks. Transporting steel coils upright (eyes to the sky) lowers the danger of rolling and facilitates vertical hoisting.
This approach stabilizes the coil’s center of gravity, making it simpler to handle at ports and warehouses. Although “shotgun” (horizontal) placement is often utilized for shorter distances, upright orientation is favored for marine transport and long-haul haulage. It keeps the coil stable and aligned using bracing systems. Distributors should provide their preferred loading technique based on the destination and handling equipment.
How Are Steel Coils Made?
Understanding how coils are manufactured explains not just their weight, but also their cost and performance. Steel coils are formed by rolling metal slabs into thin sheets that are then tightly twisted into a cylindrical shape.
Steel is heated to above 1000ยฐC during the hot-rolling process before being flattened through many roller stations. The end product is a carbon steel coil or galvanized steel coil with rougher surfaces. Cold-rolled coils are further treated at room temperature to provide a smoother finish and more accuracy, and are typically used for stainless steel coil and aluminum coil products. The coiled design saves room for storage and transit while adding substantial bulk.
Why Are Steel Coils So Hot?
Many consumers are surprised to find that recently arrived steel coils are still warm to the touch. Coils remain hot because they retain thermal energy during the rolling process, particularly in hot-rolled manufacture.
Steel is heated to about 1000ยฐC throughout the production process. Even after winding, these coils require hours to cool entirely. In humid areas, residual heat can generate condensation within the packing, resulting in corrosion if not adequately managed. That is why the majority of galvanized steel coil or aluminum coil shipments include anti-rust oil or VCI paper. Importers should provide adequate cooling time before shipment and require protective packing from vendors.
What Should Buyers Know Before Importing Heavy Coils?
Are you looking to order steel coils internationally? There is more to it than simply the pricing and characteristics. Buyers must confirm coil weight, certifications, lead time, payment arrangements, and packing before making a shipment.
Whether you’re purchasing carbon steel coil, stainless steel coil, or aluminum coil, always request a Mill Test Certificate (MTC) and any quality certificates such as ISO, SGS, or CE. Clarify the steel coil pricing and check that it includes packing, inland transportation, and all applicable taxes (if DDP). Select relevant Incoterms (FOB, CIF, or DDP) and agree on payment terms (LC, TT, or OA). Also, confirm that your warehouse or delivery location has the necessary equipment to unload huge coils. Delays or damage during unloading might significantly reduce your profit margin.
Summary
Steel coils are heavy, complex, and hazardousโhandle them carefully to avoid costly mistakes and assure a successful importation.
