Mild Steel (MS) wire, known for its ductility, weldability, and relative affordability, is one of the most versatile and widely used types of wire across various industries. Its applications stem from its balanced mechanical properties derived from its low carbon content.
Common uses of MS wire include:
- Construction: Primarily used as binding wire (tying wire) to securely hold rebar (reinforcement bars) together in concrete structures before pouring concrete. Annealed MS wire (black wire) is often preferred for its flexibility.
- Manufacturing Fasteners: It's a key material for producing everyday items like nails, screws, staples, pins, and bolts.
- Wire Mesh and Netting: Used to create welded or woven wire mesh for fencing, screening, partitions, gabions, and concrete reinforcement mesh.
- Fencing: Galvanized MS wire (GI wire) is commonly used for chain-link fences, barbed wire, and agricultural fencing due to its enhanced corrosion resistance.
- General Engineering & Fabrication: Used for making handles (like for buckets), hooks, hangers, support structures, grills, and various fabricated components.
- Welding Electrodes: Forms the core material for certain types of welding electrodes.
- Arts and Crafts: Used in sculpting, model making, and various decorative applications.
The specific type of MS wire (e.g., hard bright, black annealed, galvanized) determines its suitability for a particular use. For instance, galvanized wire is chosen for outdoor applications requiring rust protection, while annealed wire is selected when flexibility is paramount.