The 'Corten Steel' Angel of the North

Posted in The World Of Metal on 23rd December 2010

Towering over the A1 in Gateshead, England, The Angel of the North is made from a steel grade known as Corten steel that has been developed to weather with age due to oxidisation and it is this process that produces the rich red, russet brown that you can see on the image below. Designed by Antony Gormley, The Angel's wingspan is 54 metres and is 20 metres in height, plus beneath the structure there is 22 metres of concrete that anchor its great weight of 208 tonnes to the solid rock below. With the strength of Corten steel and added support from the concrete, the sculpture should last 100 years and withstand winds more than 100mph.

Angel of the North

Looking at the specification of Corten steel it appears to be made up of a little bit of everything and its production would require a wide range of ferro alloys and metals including nickel, copper and ferro-chromium.

Corten steel has been used for other purposes with varying degrees of success. Being cheaper than stainless steel, its use in railcars was tested but the material proved unsuitable, lacking the durability of stainless steel. It rusted too quickly despite, or some would argue, being painted. The lack of durability has also been a problem when it has been used in building projects; particularly those located in coastal regions and are exposed to the salty air.

William Rowland Ltd are copper suppliers, and if you would like to find out how we can meet your requirements, please contact us using the Quick Enquiry Form on the right-hand side of this website.

Tags: