Density is one of the many properties of steel. It is calculated by dividing mass by volume. There are many different forms of steel. Density is calculated by dividing mass by volume. The density of carbon steel is about 7.85g/cm3 (0.284lb/in3).


Steel has many uses. For example, stainless steel is used for surgical tools and kitchen utensils. It is a steel with low carbon content and at least 10.5% chromium.  This leads to corrosion resistance. Another kind of steel, tool steel, is used for metal cutting tools and drills because it is hard but brittle. The carbon content in carbon steel determines the hardness of steel. The more carbon it contains, the harder the steel will be. Carbon steel is usually used in automobile parts.


Steel and its various forms have many uses all over the world. The properties of steel depend on its content, which results in different densities. In most cases, the tighter the steel, the harder it is.


Different amounts of carbon and other elements in each type of steel produce various densities or specific gravities. (Specific or relative density is the ratio of material density to water density.)


There are five types of steel: carbon steel, alloy steel, high strength low alloy steel, stainless steel and tool steel. Carbon steel is the most common, containing varying amounts of carbon, producing everything from machines to mattresses to hairpins.  Alloy steel contains a certain amount of vanadium, molybdenum, manganese, silicon and copper. Alloy steel produces gears, carving knives and even roller skates. Stainless steel contains chromium and nickel in other alloy elements, which can maintain color and rust reaction. Stainless steel products include pipes, space capsules and surgical equipment for kitchen equipment. Last but not least, tool steels contain tungsten and molybdenum in other alloying elements. These elements create the strength and capability of tool steel products, including parts for manufacturing operations and machinery.