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                                                                   EXHIBIT 23.1

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S CONSENT


We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No.
33-54081 of Quanex Corporation on Form S-8 of our report dated May 22, 1998
appearing in the Annual Report of Form 11-K of the Nichols-Homeshield 401 (k)
Savings Plan for the year ended December 31, 1997.


/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
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DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Houston, Texas
June 29, 1998