IQ
Inclusion Modified Steels

Macreadys was the first stockholder in the UK to supply improved machining, inclusion modified steels. The steels were launched in 1986 under the brand name IQ.

IQ Steels are one of the most important developments in the steel industry in recent years. The improvement in machinability stems from the conversion of hard abrasive oxide and sillicate particles, that are always present in steel, to a softer more globular form, coated in a lubricating sulphide shell. Not only is machinability improved by this modification process, but also toughness and ductility, particularly in the traverse direction.

The benefits of inclusion modification are increased machining speeds, longer tool life, less machine down time, better surface finish and improved transverse mechanical properties.

An important point is that these benefits are gained without the addition of any harmful elements and the steels conform to normal standards in every respect.

Look out for steels with our IQ brand.