Grain-Oriented Electrical Steels are iron-based alloys containing silicon as the major alloying addition. These steels are used generally in applications such as power transformers where electrical conductivity and magnetic properties are important. Grain-oriented electrical steel is a very low carbon, (approximately 3% silicon-iron alloy in the fully processed condition), characterized for its enhanced magnetic properties in a flat-rolled product.

This grain-oriented electrical steel is carefully processed to develop optimum magnetic properties of core loss and permeability in the coil rolling direction. The natural surface of grain-oriented steel is a glass-like film (AISI C-2) that imparts electrical resistance or insulation between transformer laminations or wound core laps. Other coatings are also available from the mill to enhance insulation. Unlike stainless steels, grain-oriented electrical steel products are tested and sold on the basis of their magnetic and electrical properties. Products are offered in sheet and strip forms specific to product grade.