Mortar stands are commonly made from carbon steel tubing which is then powder coated. Being made from carbon steel means mortar stands have sturdy bases which can withstand wear and large volumes of plaster/mortar.
The steel rod placed near the centre of the mortar stand is welded on opposite sides to enable the stand to open at 45 degrees and no further.
Hinge pins are located in either end where the steel tubes cross to keep them together and for easy movement for the stand to fold open and close.
What is carbon steel?
Carbon steel is one of the most commonly used kinds of steel. It can be found in many different products these include: car bodies, kitchen appliances, cans and construction tools.
The properties of carbon steel depend on the amount of carbon it contains. You can find 3 types of carbon steel, low, medium and high carbon steel:
Low carbon steel or mild carbon steel – Contains up to 0.3% carbon. Improves materials ability to be shaped without breaking, but has no effect on strength.
Medium carbon steel – Contains between 0.3 to 0.5% carbon. Ideal for machining or forging and where surface hardness is desirable.
High carbon steel – Contains more than 0.5% carbon. Becomes very hard and will withstand high shear and wear.
What is powder coating?
Powder coating produces a thicker coat than liquid coatings such as paint, without the sagging or running. It gives the steel protection from rust, scratches and chips.
Plastic
The ends of the carbon steel tube on the mortar stand are fitted with plastic end caps to stop any dirt accessing the tubes, or in the event of working on flooring it prevents any damage such as scratching.
