HRPO is a technical acronym in the steel industry that stands for Hot Rolled Pickled and Oiled. It describes a specific grade and finish of hot-rolled steel sheet.
The process involves three steps:
Hot Rolling (HR): The steel is rolled at high temperatures.
Pickling (P): The surface is treated with acid to remove the oxide scale (mill scale) that forms during rolling, yielding a clean metallic surface.
Oiling (O): A thin film of rust-preventive oil is applied to the clean surface to inhibit immediate corrosion.
HRPO steel is essential because its smooth, scale-free surface is ideal for downstream processes like deep drawing, welding, and applying advanced coatings, making it crucial for automotive components and durable goods.