There are certain issues that need to be avoided at all times within the uses of steel and metal in various industries, and one of these is known broadly as metal fatigue. Metal fatigue can lead to major safety issues and even damage or death in some cases, and both understanding and preventing it is very important for anyone who works with metal or steel in any kind of building or construction setting.

At Wasatch Steel, safety is a key topic for many of our clients, who come to us for needs ranging from steel tube and steel sheet to steel plate, bar and many other products. What exactly is metal fatigue, what are some of the stresses that are known to cause it, and which types of metal fatigue should steps be taken to prevent against? Here are some basics.

What is Metal Fatigue?

For those who work with steel and other metals, metal fatigue is an important topic to understand. Metal fatigue occurs when a material has been exposed to repeated stress or strain, such as from intense pressure or vibration. Over time this can cause the metal to weaken or even break down entirely in some cases.

This process often happens slowly over time until it reaches a breaking point, and for this reason, metal fatigue can be difficult to detect until it has progressed significantly.

Which Types of Fatigue Are There?

There are several different forms of metal fatigue that may impact certain metals. Here are some of the most notable examples:

• Corrosion fatigue failure: This type of failure is caused when a metal has been exposed to corrosion, such as from exposure to water or salt air. It will initially lead to cracks and pits in the surface of the metal, and if left unchecked, can eventually cause the metal to weaken or fail.
• Thermal fatigue failure: Thermal fatigue occurs when a metal is subjected to repeated changes in temperature. This can lead to cracks forming or expanding on the surface of the metal, which can increase the risk of it weakening or breaking down completely.
• Atmospheric fatigue: Atmospheric fatigue is caused when a metal is exposed to constant changes in humidity. This can lead to corrosion and the formation of cracks on the surface, which will increase the risk of the metal failing or breaking down.
• Vibration fatigue failure: Vibration fatigue is caused when a metal is subjected to constant vibrations, such as from machinery or other sources. This can lead to the formation of cracks on the surface of the metal, which will increase the risk of it failing or breaking down.
• Mechanical fatigue failure: Mechanical fatigue is caused when a metal has been stressed repeatedly, such as from direct impacts or other sources. This can lead to cracks forming on the surface of the metal, which will increase the risk of it failing or breaking down.

Knowing what different types of metal fatigue exist and how they are caused is important for anyone who works with steel and other metals.

Stresses That Often Lead to Metal Fatigue

Metal fatigue is generally caused by prolonged exposure to stresses and strains. One of the most common here is bending, which can put strain on a metal and cause it to weaken over time. Other stresses that can lead to metal fatigue include fatigue from torsion, vibration and shock loading.

There are many cases where these stresses are found within the initial manufacturing process, but they can also come from day-to-day usage of metal materials. It is important to take steps to ensure that any metals used in building and construction settings are designed or treated properly to resist the stresses that lead to metal fatigue.

Preventing Metal Fatigue

Understanding metal fatigue is a key part of preventing it and ensuring safety. Knowing which types of metal fatigue exist, what stresses cause it and how to prevent it are all important steps. Taking preventative measures such as proper design or treatment of metals can help reduce the risk of failure. Proper maintenance and inspection should also be carried out on a regular basis in order to detect any signs of metal fatigue before they worsen.

It’s also important for anyone who manages or owns a structure using steel or metal materials to be aware of any safety issues related to metal fatigue that could affect the structure. Taking steps such as implementing safety protocols and training staff can help ensure that everyone is aware of the potential risks, and how to take necessary preventative measures.

At Wasatch Steel, we’re here to provide high-quality steel and metal products that are designed to resist the stresses of fatigue, so you can be sure your structure is safe and secure. Contact us today for more information about our products and services.