stahl und eisen - Ruukki is meeting the needs of its customers by launching Optim 960 QCW structural steel. This new grade of steel combines high-strength and weather resistance. Optim 960 QCW is ideal for applications such as containers, cranes and booms, where steel is subject to mechanical stress and at the same time exposed to weather conditions. "Optim 960 QCW opens up entirely new opportunities for structural design without having to compromise on structural requirements. The steel will result in lighter structures, which in turn translate into savings in the energy consumption of mobile vehicles, for example. The steel's resistance to atmospheric corrosion can also lead to cost savings in applications where a patina finish is required," explains Vice President Ilkka Homanen from Ruukki.
Ruukki's high-strength, weather-resistant Optim 960 QCW steel also saves on maintenance costs. The steel is not only corrosion resistant, but also provides a good bonding surface for colour-coatings, which means less need for maintenance painting. Because the corrosion resistance develops as the steel patinates, rust is prevented from penetrating under dents in the coating surface. "Ruukki is licensed to make COR-TEN weather-resistant steel, which develops rust protection as it patinates. We also otherwise have long experience of making weather-resistant steel. In addition, Ruukki is meeting customer needs by launching a high-strength steel option which also features weather-resistance properties," says Ilkka Homanen. Optim 960 QCW steel is made using a unique direct quenching process developed by Ruukki and adds to the company's range of high-strength structural steels. In addition to Optim QC steels, Ruukki also manufactures hard Raex wear-resistant steels.