Steel product and producing method thereof

Abstract

To provide a producing method of steel products characterized by elevated levels of yield strength and ductility tailored for utilization in concrete and building construction.SOLUTION: The present invention discloses a novel method (100) for producing high-strength steel products tailored for construction applications, particularly in earthquake-resistant and general construction scenarios. Without resorting to alloying elements, the method (100) strategically selects raw materials, emphasizing specific chemical compositions and mechanical properties compliant with recognized standards.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a broad range of construction technologies, with a particular focus on developing steel products for use in concrete and building construction. More specifically, the present invention relates to long steel products and related production methods characterized by high levels of yield strength and ductility. [Background technology]

[0002] In the field of construction, the use of steel is essential, especially when incorporating concrete to reinforce or strengthen the structural framework of a building. The attempt to build rigid and strong structures drives the need for high-strength steel to ensure that the resulting structure can withstand various loads and stresses.

[0003] Traditionally, increasing steel strength involves methods such as hot rolling or heat treatment, particularly the Tempcore process. While this approach is effective in producing high-strength steel bars, it introduces significant complexity. The Tempcore process requires sophisticated machinery, complex mechanisms, and a series of steps, including preheating, rapid cooling, and reheating, all of which increase production costs. While the resulting quenched and tempered structure has increased strength, it adds several layers of complexity to the manufacturing process.

[0004] Another common method involves introducing expensive alloying elements, such as Ti, V, Nb, and others, into the steel matrix to enhance its properties. However, relying on alloying elements is costly because these materials are often expensive. This increases the manufacturing cost and leads to a higher price for the final steel product. In addition, this technique is typically carried out in a steelmaking process similar to the Tempcore process, which belongs to the upstream steelmaking process.

[0005] While these conventional methods are effective in producing high-strength steels, they fall short in addressing a critical concern: low ductility. Ductility, or a material's ability to withstand plastic deformation, is crucial in regions prone to seismic events. While strong, conventional high-strength steels tend to exhibit low ductility, making them susceptible to sudden, brittle failure during earthquakes. This inherent brittleness poses a significant risk because it can lead to rapid collapse of the structure, endangering life and property.

[0006] In response to these challenges, the present invention aims to reinvent the conventional approach by introducing a new steel product and an innovative production method. The objective is to provide a solution that combines high yield strength and ductility without the attendant complexities and drawbacks associated with conventional methods. This advancement not only ensures structural resilience but also guarantees economic viability, meeting the dual requirements of safety and cost-effectiveness in construction procedures, especially in earthquake-prone regions. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This invention revolutionizes construction practice by introducing pioneering long steel products and innovative production methods. This novel approach addresses the need for high-strength steel, essential for building construction, especially when integrated with concrete. Unlike traditional methods involving hot-rolling or expensive alloying elements, this invention offers a unique combination of high yield strength and ductility without the associated complexities and drawbacks.

[0008] Therefore, the primary objective of this invention is to provide an advanced structural solution for the construction of buildings that combines high yield strength with ductility, a unique combination that increases the time to structural collapse and improves safety and evacuation opportunities during an earthquake event.

[0009] It is yet another object of the present invention to streamline the manufacturing process, eliminating the need for precision machinery and complex procedures, resulting in a more economically viable solution for high strength steel production, reducing overall construction costs without compromising performance.

[0010] It is yet another object of the present invention to overcome the limitations of conventional methods by maintaining excellent ductility in high strength steel products, a property that is extremely important in earthquake-prone regions to prevent brittle fracture and increase the overall seismic resilience of the structure.

[0011] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a cost-effective alternative to the production of high strength steels, eliminating the reliance on expensive alloying elements. By doing so, the present invention not only reduces the financial burden on construction projects, but also widens the availability of high performance structural materials.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to enhance the safety and structural integrity of buildings without compromising the economic viability of construction projects. This unique combination of advantages positions the present invention as a transformative solution for the construction industry, especially in earthquake-prone regions.

[0013] Additional objects of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description of the invention or upon employing the invention in actual practice.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided:

[0015] 1. A method for producing a steel product, comprising: selecting a raw material, the raw material being a steel rod; The method comprises, after selection of raw materials, the following steps: subjecting the raw material to a cold reduction process; and subjecting the cold deformation wire to an annealing process. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] Other aspects of the present invention and their advantages will be appreciated from a consideration of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Table 1 shows the chemical composition of steel for reinforcing concrete as specified by standard AZ / NZS4671:2019. Table 2 shows the required mechanical properties of steel for reinforcing concrete as specified by standard AZ / NZS4671:2019. Table 3 provides a comprehensive depiction of the changes in mechanical properties observed in the transition from raw material to cold deformed steel wire according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Table 4 provides a comprehensive depiction of the changes in mechanical properties observed in the transition from cold deformed to annealed steel wire according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Table 5 shows the chemical composition of steel for reinforcing concrete as specified by standard MS146:2014. Table 6 shows the required mechanical properties of steel for reinforcing concrete as specified by standard MS146:2014. [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an exemplary method flow for producing a steel product according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] 1 illustrates the method employed for the cold reduction process according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] 1 illustrates the method employed for the cold reduction process according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 2C illustrates an exemplary identification mark applied to a steel wire utilizing the method of cold reduction as shown in FIG. 2B, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 4 illustrates another exemplary method flow for producing a steel product, according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5A] 4 illustrates another exemplary method flow for producing a steel product, according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5B] 4 illustrates another exemplary method flow for producing a steel product, according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5C] 4 illustrates another exemplary method flow for producing a steel product according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6]4 illustrates another exemplary method flow for producing a steel product according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 2B shows another exemplary identification mark applied to a steel rod using the method of cold reduction as shown in FIG. 2B in accordance with standard MS146:2014. [Figure 8] 1 shows an exemplary tight coil structure of annealed wire produced through the present invention. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates the open coil structure of a hot rolled wire using conventional hot rolling methods. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and / or components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the present invention.

[0018] The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are not to scale.

[0019] As used in this disclosure and the claims appended hereto, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0020] Throughout this disclosure and the claims herein, the word "comprise" and variations of that word, such as "comprising" and "comprises," mean "including, but not limited to," and do not, for example, exclude other elements, integers, or steps. "Exemplary" means "one example of" and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal embodiment, and "such as" is used for descriptive purposes and not in a limiting sense.

[0021] Embodiments of the present invention focus on methods for producing steel products specifically designed to reinforce concrete in various building constructions, with a particular emphasis on earthquake-resistant structures. This innovation introduces improved structural elements suitable for beams, columns, and other load-bearing components. The steel products are seamlessly integrated into established construction methods and are adaptable to suit a variety of concrete mixes. Thus, the present invention provides a unique and innovative response to the challenges posed by seismic events during construction, enhancing a building's ability to withstand collapse during an earthquake and thus ensuring the safety of its occupants.

[0022] The present invention can be made into welded mesh products or any form of fencing or steel products used in hazardous applications such as mining and underground working environments, and to prevent soil movement on hilly or sloping areas.

[0023] Within this document, the terms "steel product" or "steel component" encompass various forms, including but not limited to, lengths of steel, steel bars, rods, wire rods, rebar, or other variations or equivalents. This definition particularly covers products characterized by a long, slender shape relative to their cross-sectional dimensions, adapted to an extended length suitable for construction applications where slender steel is essential, such as beams, columns, or structural elements of buildings. This term emphasizes the elongated nature of these steel components and distinguishes them from shorter, more compact forms such as sheets and plates.

[0024] An exemplary method flow (100) illustrating the production of steel products designed to reinforce concrete is shown in Figure 1. The process begins with the selection of raw materials (110) and focuses on carefully engineering the material's chemical composition as a basis for further processing. In one embodiment, the invention selects raw materials whose chemical composition and mechanical properties match the specifications outlined in standard AS / NZS4671:2019, detailed in Tables 1 and 2. [Table 1] [Table 2] Ideally, the raw material selected is a pre-fabricated hot-rolled carbon steel rod characterized by an iron (Fe) content in the range of 98% to 99%. The primary elements outlined in contract agreements, specifications, or technical protocols typically include carbon (C), silicon (Si), manganese (Mn), phosphorus (P), and sulfur (S). A preferred embodiment of the present invention is directed to strengthened steel products conforming to the 500E standard. Therefore, to improve the mechanical properties of the final steel product or meet the required mechanical properties of the standard, the method further implements control over the chemical composition of the standard, where the control over the chemical composition is the mass percent of each material. This includes specific controls such as maintaining carbon in the range of 0.17% to 0.22%, silicon in the range of 0.05% to 0.3%, and manganese in the range of 0.80% to 1.2%. This innovative chemical combination is expected to improve the mechanical properties of the final steel product in terms of material strength, total elongation under ultimate force (AGT), or ductility. Therefore, strict selection and control of raw materials is a key criterion to ensure that the mechanical properties of the final product meet the specifications outlined in the 500E standard.

[0025] Following the selection of raw material (110), the next step involves subjecting the raw material to a cold working or cold reduction process (120), which deviates from traditional heat treatment methods and is specifically performed at room temperature. It is important to understand that this process is performed at room temperature, eliminating the need for heating, cooling, or any complex equipment. The cold working process (120) aims to reduce the size, particularly the diameter, of the steel rod, deforming it with observable grain elongation and size reduction. This process significantly alters the mechanical properties, both strength and ductility. As shown in Table 3, the tensile strength is between 600 and 700 N / mm after cold working. 2 Range from 800~1000N / mm 2 increases to. [Table 3] However, despite the increased material strength, the ductility (AGT) is significantly reduced from the range of 10.0-16.0% to 1.0-3.0%. It is important to note that the raw steel rod is transformed into cold deformation lines after the cold working or cold reduction process.

[0026] At this stage, while the cold deformation line exhibits improved strength, its low ductility makes it prone to fracture under maximum load due to a lack of capacity for elongation. In addition to material strength, ductility considerations are particularly important in concrete-related applications, especially in earthquake-prone regions. While cold working has been demonstrated to improve material strength, the method of the present invention extends beyond this point. Given its critical role in ensuring structural integrity and construction safety, especially in earthquake-prone regions, it is imperative to maintain material strength while not compromising ductility. Thus, the present method places a strong emphasis on simultaneously enhancing both material strength and ductility, recognizing their complementary importance for construction applications, especially those exposed to seismic risk. Recognizing the importance of ductility, especially in earthquake-prone regions, the present method does not end with cold working alone, with the goal of increasing material strength without compromising ductility.

[0027] The cold working process can be described in two forms: cold drawing or cold rolling. Cold drawing involves drawing raw material through a die set with an adjustable diameter, as shown in FIG. 2A, to reduce the diameter of the raw steel rod. Conversely, the cold rolling process mirrors the principle of cold drawing, as shown in FIG. 2B, and involves the use of at least two rollers to roll the raw material. In the cold rolling process, specific marks can be imprinted on the rollers. Thus, when the raw steel rod is rolled, these marks are imprinted on the steel wire, which can serve as a means of product differentiation. This imprint not only simplifies identification but also serves as a distinguishing feature, as exemplified in FIG. 3.

[0028] Following the cold working process, the cold-deformed wire undergoes a subsequent annealing process (130) strategically designed to restore the wire from the previous cold deformation and enhance ductility or AGT performance without excessively compromising material strength. This annealing process (130) is performed in a furnace, where the cold-deformed wire is drawn into the annealing furnace. Temperature control or duration of the annealing process is critical to effective material restoration. The temperature is preferably maintained within a continuous range of 700-850°C for 40-120 seconds. This ensures that each section of the wire, from head to tail, is annealed in a balanced manner, depending on the operating speed. The combination of annealing duration and controlled temperature results in material restoration with a slight decrease in material strength and a significant increase in ductility.

[0029] As shown in Table 4, the annealed wire exhibited a significant change, with the tensile strength ranging from 800 to 1000 N / mm 2 Range from 600~750N / mm 2 The yield strength is reduced to 700-950N / mm 2 Range from 500 to 600N / mm 2 It drops to. [Table 4] Conversely, ductility (AGT) is significantly increased from the 1.0-3.0% range to at least 10.0%. The final steel product maintains a ferrite-pearlite structure, which reflects the partial recrystallization that occurs in the material during annealing. This annealed material exhibits controlled partial grain recovery, simplifying recovery from cold deformation. This unique process reduces material strength while improving ductility to a targeted level, referred to as a "hybrid recrystallization process." This process balances both material strength and ductility through the cold deformation and annealing stages.

[0030] As shown in Figure 4, in certain embodiments, the final steel product undergoes an aging process (150), which is preferably carried out at room temperature, after which the steel product is ready for further processing or use.

[0031] In the specific embodiment shown in FIG. 5A, the method (100) may include the additional step of galvanizing the annealed wire (140), which is performed after the annealing process (130) shown in FIG. 1. If the finished product requires an aging process (150), as shown in FIG. 4, galvanizing the annealed wire (140) may be performed after the annealing step (130) but before the aging step (150), as shown in FIG. 5B. The galvanizing process, further detailed in FIG. 5C, includes a series of substeps. The annealed wire first undergoes pickling (141), followed by fluxing (142), dipping (143), quenching (144), and wax finishing (145) to complete the production of the galvanized wire. This comprehensive galvanizing sequence ensures a protective coating on the annealed wire, improving its corrosion resistance and contributing to its overall durability and lifespan.

[0032] Pickling (141) refers to a metal surface treatment process that involves immersing the annealed wire in an acid solution to remove oxides, scale, rust, and other impurities from the surface. The acid used in the pickling process reacts with metal oxides and dissolves them, leaving a clean metal surface. Common acids used in the pickling process include hydrochloric acid (HCl) or sulfuric acid (H2SO4), depending on the specific requirements of the metal and the desired outcome of the treatment.

[0033] In the galvanizing process, fluxing (142) is the next step after pickling. Fluxing (142) typically involves applying a flux solution to the surface of the annealed wire after it has been cleaned and pickled. The primary purpose of fluxing is neutralization and protection. Fluxing neutralizes acidic residues on the surface left by the pickling process. This is important because acidic residues can adversely affect the effectiveness of subsequent steps in the galvanizing process. Fluxing also forms a protective layer on the surface to prevent reoxidation. This protective layer helps maintain the cleanliness of the annealed wire before it is immersed in molten zinc during galvanizing. Common flux solutions include zinc ammonium chloride or zinc ammonium chloride hydroxide. These solutions not only neutralize the surface but also provide a protective layer to prevent oxide formation on the metal before it is exposed to the galvanizing bath or hot-dip galvanizing process.

[0034] The annealed wire then undergoes a hot-dip galvanizing process (143), which is a process for coating the annealed wire with a layer of zinc to provide corrosion protection. This process typically involves immersing the annealed wire in a bath of molten zinc at an elevated temperature, preferably at least 450°C, to ensure a uniform and complete coating and cover the entire surface of the annealed wire. The high temperature of the bath allows the zinc to metallurgically bond to the metal surface, forming a series of zinc-iron layers. The hot-dip galvanized coating acts as a sacrificial anode, preferentially corroding to protect the underlying metal and providing robust protection in harsh environments with known durability and longevity.

[0035] After the annealed wire is withdrawn from the hot-dip galvanizing process, it may undergo a quenching process (144). Quenching (144) involves rapidly cooling the annealed wire to solidify the zinc coating. This is typically accomplished by immersing the annealed wire in water or another quenching solution. The rapid cooling solidifies the zinc coating and ensures its adhesion to the metal surface. Quenching contributes to the uniformity and adhesion of the zinc coating, reducing the risk of coating imperfections, and affects the microstructure of the zinc coating, contributing to its overall quality and corrosion resistance.

[0036] The final step involves the application of a special wax coating (145) to the galvanized steel. This wax acts as an additional protective layer, helps seal any micropores or imperfections in the galvanized coating, improves protection against corrosive elements, minimizes the formation of wet-kept stains during transport and storage, especially under humid conditions, contributes to a smooth, aesthetically pleasing appearance desirable for architectural and decorative applications, and acts as an extra barrier against moisture, chemicals, and other environmental agents, further extending the corrosion protection of the galvanized steel.

[0037] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the final steel product resulting from all the preceding embodiments undergoes a subsequent process known as mesh fabrication (160), as further shown in FIG. 6. This mesh fabrication process (160) involves a series of steps beginning with wire straightening (161) to ensure uniformity and precision. Following the straightening step (161), the straight annealed wire is precisely cut to predetermined lengths (163) that conform to the specific dimensional requirements of the intended application. The process continues with wire mesh welding (165), where the individual wires are seamlessly welded together to complete the fabrication of the welded mesh for subsequent processes or applications. This comprehensive mesh fabrication procedure (160) adds versatility to the final steel product, simplifying its use for a variety of construction applications.

[0038] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the selection of raw materials conforms to the chemical composition specifications outlined in standard MS146:2014, as shown in Table 5. [Table 5] Standard MS146:2014 is a Malaysian standard that specifies requirements and criteria for construction materials. The standard contains provisions for three steel grades, all with a yield strength of 500 MPa but with different ductility characteristics. The three grades are B500A, B500B, and B500C.

[0039] Despite this unique raw material selection, the subsequent manufacturing / production process continues to conform to the methods detailed in all preceding embodiments. Ideally, the preferred raw material is steel rod, preferably pre-formed hot-rolled carbon steel rod having an iron (Fe) content in the range of 98%-99%. The major elements, including carbon (C), silicon (Si), manganese (Mn), phosphorus (P), nitrogen (N), copper (Cu), and sulfur (S), are determined by contractual agreements, specifications, or technical protocols.

[0040] This particular embodiment is directed to strengthened steel products conforming to the 500B and / or 500C standards. To meet the mechanical properties required by these standards, the method incorporates control over the chemical composition, which defines the mass percent of each material. This includes precise control, such as maintaining carbon within the range of 0.17% to 0.22% by weight, silicon within the range of 0.05% to 0.2% by weight, and manganese within the range of 0.60% to 1.0% by weight.

[0041] In contrast to the seismic applications emphasized in the first embodiment, this composition is intended for use in the general construction industry. Therefore, the mechanical properties of the final product differ from those of the first embodiment. In addition, the distinguishing method involves the variation of the characteristic pattern or style applied through the cold rolling process, as illustrated in FIG. 7. Another point of difference is the annealing time during the annealing process, which in this embodiment ranges from 20 to 100 seconds. These slight differences highlight the adaptability of the present invention to meet specific industrial requirements and standards.

[0042] According to the 500B and / or 500C standards, the mechanical properties required for the final annealed wire are 500N / mm 2 Furthermore, 500B final annealed wire should exhibit a minimum AGT of 5.0%, and 500C category final annealed wire must achieve an AGT of at least 7.5%. The method of the present invention comfortably meets these requirements, ensuring that final annealed wire easily meets the prescribed standards. Final annealed wire exceeding 7.5% AGT ​​can be designated as a 500C grade or labeled as 500C steel wire, while AGT in the range of 5% to 7.5% is qualified as 500B steel wire.

[0043] It should be emphasized that under current market conditions, it is relatively easy to produce steel wire that meets the 500A standard, which only requires 2.5% AGT. However, a notable achievement lies in the fact that no entity currently exists that is capable of producing steel products that comply with the more stringent 500B and 500C standards. The present invention boasts the ability to label the final steel wire as 500B or 500C steel wire using an innovative method. The mechanical properties of the compliant steel products are shown in Table 6. [Table 6]

[0044] However, it should be recognized that the standard AS / NZS4671:2019 or the standard MS146:2014 are subject to periodic revisions by the relevant authorities which may include changes in chemical composition or mechanical properties. Nevertheless, the method employed by the present invention is still adaptable and capable of producing steel wire that meets the revisions introduced in the standards.

[0045] A key aspect of the present invention is the intentional elimination of expensive alloying elements to enhance mechanical properties. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the method does not require an initial heat treatment or involve multiple processing steps to achieve the final product. This unique approach emphasizes the efficiency and simplicity of the present invention in favor of a streamlined process that achieves improved mechanical properties without relying on expensive alloying elements or complex heat treatment procedures.

[0046] Furthermore, it is particularly noteworthy that the final annealed wire resulting from the present method (100) can typically be tightly wound into a tight configuration, as opposed to the loosely wound configuration typically found in wire produced by conventional methods. This difference is illustrated in FIG. 8, which shows a tightly coiled configuration, and FIG. 9, which shows a loosely coiled configuration. These tightly coiled wires not only save space but also allow for the production of heavier coils while maintaining a similar coil size. This aspect is beneficial for serial production, as they can accommodate larger weights, and also has logistical advantages, particularly in terms of export or transportation. Conventional processes face challenges in achieving this result because they rely on hot rolling techniques. While the present invention has been shown and described in embodiments that are considered preferred to illustrate the results and advantages obtained through the present invention over the prior art, the present invention is not limited to those specific embodiments. Accordingly, the forms of the invention shown and described herein should be considered merely exemplary, and other embodiments may be selected without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. The scope of the present invention encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications, and equivalents. Naturally, there are many alternative ways of constructing and implementing the present invention to suit particular facilities and environments, while still providing different designed biological outcomes.

Claims

1. A method (100) for producing a steel product, comprising: i. selecting a raw material (110), wherein the raw material is a steel rod; After selecting the raw material (110), the method (100) comprises: ii. subjecting the raw material to a cold reduction process (120); iii. subjecting the cold deformation wire to an annealing process (130).

2. 10. The method (100) for producing a steel product according to claim 1, further comprising a step (150) of aging the steel wire, the step (150) being carried out after the step (130) of subjecting the cold deformed wire to an annealing process.

3. 3. The method (100) for producing a steel product according to claim 2, wherein the final steel wire after the ageing process has an AGT of at least 5%, or at least 7.5%, or at least 10.0%.

4. 4. The method (100) of producing a steel product according to claim 3, wherein the step (150) of aging the steel wire occurs at room temperature.

5. 3. The method (100) for producing a steel product according to claim 2, further comprising the step (140) of galvanizing an annealed wire, the step (140) being carried out after the step (130) of subjecting the cold deformed wire to the annealing process and before the step (150) of aging the steel wire.

6. 3. The method (100) for producing a steel product according to claim 2, further comprising a meshing step (160) performed after said step (150) of aging said steel wire.

7. The method (100) for producing a steel product according to claim 1, wherein the cold reduction process (120) is carried out at room temperature through at least a diameter reduction means.

8. A method (100) for producing a steel product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the annealing process (130) is carried out at a temperature of between 700°C and 850°C for a period of between 40 and 120 seconds or between 20 and 100 seconds.

9. 8. The method (100) of producing a steel product according to claim 7, wherein said diameter reducing means includes, but is not limited to, a die, a roller, or the like, or a combination thereof.

10. 10. A method (100) for producing a steel product according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and claim 9, wherein the raw material comprises, in a chemical composition, carbon in the range of 0.17 to 0.22% by weight, manganese in the range of 0.8 to 1.2% by weight, and silicon in the range of 0.05 to 0.2% by weight.

11. 9. The method (100) for producing a steel product according to claim 8, wherein the raw material comprises, in a chemical composition, carbon in the range of 0.17 to 0.22%, manganese in the range of 0.8 to 1.2%, and silicon in the range of 0.05 to 0.2%, by weight.

12. 14. The step (140) of galvanizing the annealed wire comprises the following substeps: a. Pickling (141) by immersing the annealed wire in a solution; b. Fluxing (142), applying at least a flux solution to the surface of the wire; c. subjecting the wire to immersion in a bath of molten zinc, immersion (143); d. Quenching (144), which subjects the wire to rapid cooling using at least a quenching solution; and The method (100) for producing a steel product of claim 5, further comprising: applying a wax coating to the galvanized wire (145).

13. Said step (160) of the mesh making process comprises the following sub-steps: A. Straightening the annealing line (161); B. Cutting the annealed wire to length (163); and C. welding the wires to form a welded mesh (165).

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