The inclination to design and build lighter vehicles is originated with the purpose of reducing the amount of gas emissions and toxic compounds for the environment and human beings. In addition to promoting the change of raw material for the automotive industry, innovation in the automotive sector is originated with the development of advanced high-strength steels (AHSS).
At Ulbrinox, when mentioning high-strength steels, we refer to steels that withstand breakage pressures above 210 MPa. However, although it is related that the manufacture of high-strength steels is a creation of recent years, the truth is that its evolution began in the time of World War I and resumed in the 70's, due to the oil crisis. Therefore, these types of steels are created by wanting to increase fuel consumption performance and vehicle structural resistance without sacrificing safety.
Properties of high-strength steels
The properties of hardness, impact resistance, corrosion resistance, durability, among others. They can be obtained thanks to the composition of these steels, while reducing the weight of the components by 25 to 40%, compared to traditional steels.
Therefore, high-strength steels constitute about 60% of body structures.
Where are high-strength steels found in automobiles?
A vehicle body is usually divided into three very different parts.
- Front sections: The area that requires absorbing the most force and energy in an impact.
- Longerons, cross members and reinforcements.
- Central section: The safety zone in which people travel within the vehicle and which must be undeformable. Therefore, it is where high-strength steels are needed to obstruct any exterior element of the vehicle.
- Running board and central pillar.
- Rear section: The area that requires absorbing the most force and energy in an impact.
- Longerons, cross members and reinforcements.
The future for this material remains in the highest expectations, as it meets the safety and efficiency requirements required in the automotive industry.
At Ulbrinox we have the most sophisticated steels for the automotive industry. Our steels meet the requirements needed by the industry: greater resistance with less weight. We comply with all the most demanding certifications and standards of the automotive sector to offer the highest quality standards. Contact us to request a quote online.
