Norex Standard for Material Classification

Norex uses its own classification system, in order to help our customers choose the most appropriate product for their needs. This system is designed to bridge conflicting standards used in different countries and mills, and replace it with a unified method. Regardless of the source of the material, Norex categorizes it according to this system.

When running a product search for a commodity, known defects will be shown in the product listing in the column marked “remarks”. The severity of the defect is rated by the category of the product: N1, N2, N3 & N4, where N1 is the best quality.

N1 - Insignificant defects

In category N1, the material is deemed to be free or almost free of defects.
Atmospheric rust, minor dents or scratches could be present, but the material can be used for most standard applications.

N2 – few/small defects

In category N2, the material can be expected to have some smaller defects of limited significance, and usually there should only be little or no waste of the material.
Some rust, flatness problems, rough surface, deviations in chemical analysis and uneven metal coating are some examples of defects that can be expected in N2 material.

N3 – some/larger defects

In category N3, most types of defects could appear in the material to such a degree that it will restrict its use in different applications, and normally there will be some waste when using the material.

N4 – considerable defects

In category N4, the material will have severe defects, to the extent that its use is limited and large waste percentage should be expected.