Metals
About Metals
Bobco Metals is a metal supplier for industrial and commercial projects, offering steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and brass. Our inventory includes common grades like 6061 aluminum and A36 steel, available in bar, sheet, pipe, and structural shapes. In stock in Los Angeles for same-day pickup.
Quick Facts
- Materials: Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Brass
- Available Shapes: Bar, Sheet, Plate, Pipe, Tube, Angle, Channel
- Location: Los Angeles warehouse
- Services: Custom size, same-day pickup
Overview
Industrial metals form the foundation of modern construction, manufacturing, and fabrication. This category includes four primary families: steel, known for its strength and versatility; aluminum, valued for its light weight and corrosion resistance; stainless steel, which offers superior corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal; and brass, an alloy of copper and zinc known for its machinability and decorative properties. Each family contains numerous grades and alloys, each engineered with specific mechanical properties to meet the demands of different applications, from high-strength structural components to precision-machined parts and weather-resistant architectural features.
Our inventory includes these metals in a variety of forms to suit fabrication needs. Bar stock (round, flat, square) is ideal for machining parts, while sheet and plate are used for forming, cutting, and welding panels and enclosures. Structural shapes like angles, channels, and beams provide the framework for buildings and equipment. Pipe and tube are used for fluid transport, structural applications, and mechanical assemblies. By offering this diverse range of materials and shapes, we provide the raw materials necessary for projects ranging from general repairs to large-scale industrial production.
Technical Specifications
Material Properties
Mechanical and chemical properties are specific to the alloy and temper selected. For example, 6061-T6 Aluminum has a tensile strength of 45,000 PSI, while A36 structural steel is rated at 58,000-80,000 PSI. Please refer to the specific material and grade pages for detailed data tables.
Applicable Standards
Materials conform to a variety of ASTM International standards depending on the specific grade and form. Common standards include:
- ASTM A36: Standard Specification for Carbon Structural Steel
- ASTM B209: Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate
- ASTM A276: Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes
- ASTM B16: Standard Specification for Free-Cutting Brass Rod, Bar and Shapes for Use in Screw Machines
Common Applications
- Construction: Structural steel beams, columns, and frames - for its high strength-to-weight ratio.
- Manufacturing: Machined shafts, gears, and fittings - using free-machining grades like 303 Stainless or 1018 Steel.
- Aerospace: High-strength aircraft frames and components - utilizing lightweight, strong alloys like 7075 Aluminum.
- Marine: Boat hulls, railings, and hardware - using corrosion-resistant 5052 Aluminum or 316 Stainless Steel.
- Automotive: Chassis components, brackets, and support members - for the durability and formability of carbon steel.
- Architectural: Decorative panels, handrails, and trim - for the aesthetic appeal of 304 Stainless Steel or C260 Brass.
- Plumbing & Fluid Transfer: Piping, flanges, and valve bodies - for pressure tolerance and corrosion resistance.
Working with Metals
Machining
Machinability varies significantly between metal families and grades. Free-machining alloys like 303 stainless steel and C360 brass are designed for high-speed automated machining. Carbon steels like 1018 offer good machinability, while softer alloys like 3003 aluminum require sharp tooling to prevent gumming. Harder alloys and some stainless grades may require slower speeds and specialized tooling.
Welding
Most common carbon steels (A36) and many aluminum alloys (6061, 5052) offer excellent weldability using standard processes. Austenitic stainless steels (304, 316) are also readily weldable. However, certain high-strength or free-machining grades, such as 7075 aluminum or 303 stainless steel, contain elements that make welding difficult or impossible and are not recommended for welded assemblies.
Finishing
Materials are supplied with a standard mill finish. Carbon steel is often painted, powder-coated, or galvanized for corrosion protection. Aluminum can be anodized for a durable, corrosion-resistant finish or painted. Stainless steel and brass offer natural corrosion resistance and are often used with a brushed, polished, or mill finish.
Grades Comparison
| Grade | Tensile (PSI) | Yield (PSI) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| A36 Steel | 58,000-80,000 | 36,000 | General structural fabrication and construction |
| 1018 Steel | 63,800 | 53,700 | General machining and carburized parts |
| 6061-T6 Aluminum | 45,000 | 40,000 | Structural use, machining, and welding |
| 304 Stainless Steel | 73,200 | 31,200 | General purpose corrosion resistance |
| 303 Stainless Steel | 90,000 | 35,000 | High-speed machining and fasteners |
| C360 Brass | 58,000 | 45,000 | Excellent machinability for fittings and hardware |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between hot rolled and cold rolled steel?
A: Hot rolled steel is processed at high temperatures, resulting in a rougher, scaled surface and looser tolerances, making it ideal for structural applications. Cold rolled steel is further processed at room temperature, yielding a smooth finish, tighter tolerances, and increased strength.
Q: Which aluminum alloy should I use for my project?
A: 6061-T6 is the most common general-purpose alloy, excellent for structural and machined parts. For superior marine corrosion resistance and formability, use 5052. For high-strength applications like aerospace, choose 7075. For applications requiring significant bending, use 3003.
Q: Can you cut metal to a specific size?
A: Yes, we offer precision cutting services for most of our products, including bar, plate, and tube. Same-day service is often available for simple cuts. Please provide your dimensions when requesting a quote for accurate pricing.
Stock & Custom Sizes
Available in a wide range of standard mill sizes for bar, sheet, plate, tube, and structural shapes. Custom size available.
Same-day cutting and Los Angeles pickup available.
View Sizes & PricingNeed industrial metals? Contact Bobco Metals for availability and Los Angeles pickup.
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