Distortion
Distortion, as seen to the right, is the buckling of a thin, flat steel plate or other flat material such as wire mesh. Distortion occurs when the steel tries to move to accommodate the thermal expansion. Since the steel is welded in place it cannot move. This creates a high stress level often relieved by distortion of the part. Distortion is acceptable, unless it prevents the part from fulfilling its intended use. Many distorted parts on thin steel sheets can be bent after galvanizing to bring the part to an acceptable final condition.
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