Weathering steel, best-known under the trademark COR-TEN is a group of steel alloys which has been developed to avoid the need for painting, by forming a stable rust-like appearance when exposed to the weather. Weathering means that due to the chemical composition of the material, the steel exhibits increased resistance to atmospheric corrosion compared to unalloyed steels. The steel forms a protective layer on its surface giving a weathered effect.
A protective layer is produced by the particular distribution and concentration of elements in the Corten steel. This layer protecting the surface develops and regenerates continuously when subjected to the influence of the weather. Basically the steel is allowed to rust in order to form a protective coating.
Corten is a popular material used in outside sculptures because of its weathering quality's designers all over the world have specified its use. Examples can be seen in various places in the UK one of the most famous being The Angel of the North, Gateshead near Newcastle. Here are a few moew examples from various projects across the UK and USA. These images are not our own but belong to other parties.
Corten steel is a specialist metal which is best cut by ultra high pressure abrasive water jet cutting machines, Kcut have been involved in cutting this difficult material for many years. Using the latest cutting technology we can offer a bespoke service producing CAD drawings for you or working from your own design, a proof will be sent to you beforehand for approval. You can rest assured that the merging of your vision and our experience can create a finished product of outstanding quality and value. Please take a few moments to see out portfolio page which illustrates just how experienced we are at cutting intricate designs within incredible tolerances.