How are structural steel beams rolled?

Structural steel beams are primarily rolled using hot rolling techniques. This process involves heating the steel to a high temperature, typically over 1,700°F, which makes the steel malleable and easier to shape. When steel is hot rolled, it can be formed into various shapes, including beams, with less effort and energy compared to cold rolling methods. The high temperatures used in hot rolling also help to refine the internal structure of the steel, enhancing its properties and strength.

In contrast, cold rolling is typically utilized for forming thinner materials and results in tighter tolerances and improved surface finish. However, it requires more force and is not suitable for producing large structural members like beams. Thus, while cold rolling has its applications, it isn’t the method employed for rolling structural steel beams, making hot rolling the correct and most efficient choice for this process.