Metal
Carbon & Alloy Steel
A strong, economical route for shafts, gears, fixtures and structural machine parts.
01 · QUICK ANSWER
When should you choose Carbon & alloy steel?
Use 1018 for weldable general parts, 1045 for higher wear and shaft strength, and 4140 when heat treatment, fatigue resistance and toughness are required.
02 · SELECTION DATA
Typical properties at a glance
Screening values only. Final design data must follow the exact grade, condition, stock form and supplier certificate.
Density7.85 g/cm³
Strength range250–1500+ MPa yield
TemperatureCondition dependent
MachinabilityGood
03 · ENGINEERING NOTES
Specify what changes the result
A material name alone is not enough. Include grade, condition, finish and documentation on the drawing or purchase specification.
- 1018
- 1045
- A36
- 4140
- 4340
- Shafts and axles
- Machine frames
- Gears and sprockets
- Welded fixtures
- Unprotected surfaces will rust
- Heat treatment can distort tight features
- Weldability falls as carbon content rises
- Black oxide
- Zinc plating
- Nickel plating
- Powder coat
- Phosphate
04 · MANUFACTURING FIT
Available process routes
CNC machiningCommonly available
Sheet metalCommonly available
3D printingReview by grade and geometry
05 · NEXT COMPARISON