Renewable energy is becoming increasingly important and increasingly profitable in this day and age. There are many different industries that profit from this increasing importance of the green energy industry. These industries are essential to the growth and success of renewable industry. One industry that allows the green energy industry to flourish is steel fabrication. Without steel fabrication, many of the products that are essential to facilitating renewable energy would not be possible. Read below to learn about the different ways in which steel fabrication facilitates the green energy industry.
Solar energy is one of the fastest growing and most promising types of renewable energy. Steel is essential in the manufacturing of the different tools that facilitate solar energy. It is dense, strong, and much more resistant to corrosion than other light materials. These attributes make steel the ideal material for solar panel frames. Heat exchanges, tanks, and pumps used in solar energy are also built from steel because of these advantages.
In many parts of the world, especially Korea, tidal energy is a very important source of renewable energy. Because of its strength and corrosion resistance, steel holds up very well in a harsh marine environment. For this reason, it is the primary component of tidal turbines for tidal energy systems as well as wave energy devices. Additionally, the strength and corrosion resistance of steel helps facilitate hydroelectricity, providing the best reinforcement material for concrete dams.
Wind energy is a very useful form of supplemental renewable energy. Most wind turbines are made of steel, with as much as 80% of the materials consisting entirely of steel. The tower, nacelle, rotor blades, and supporting facilities of a wind turbine will typically consist of steel. Its non-corrosive properties not only maximize the lifetime of the turbines, but also minimize maintenance costs, which is essential to creating a profitable product.
Geothermal energy is a largely untapped, very useful form of renewable energy. By 2050, it’s estimated that about 1400 TWh of geothermal energy can be harvested from the Earth’s core. Geothermal energy provides extreme heat and is difficult to reach. For these reasons, it’s important to use corrosion resistant materials that will not require much maintenance. Most geothermal energy tools are made from iron casting, stainless steel, and steel alloys. Heat exchangers, condensers, pipes, filters, pumps, and valves are typically made of steel and used to harvest and convert geothermal energy.
The best way to ensure an accurate metal fabrication project estimate is to start off with detailed, accurate product information. Plan ahead and communicate effectively, and you’re project is set for smooth sailing. Contact CAMM Metals and we would be happy to offer a free estimate on your next project.