SAE AISI 1020 Steel Properties, C1020 Carbon Steel Yield Strength, and Equivalent Standards
Premium Quality ASTM SAE AISI 1020 Steel
AISI 1020 steel, also recognized as C1020 steel in its cold worked condition (whether cold rolled or cold drawn), stands out as one of the most widely used plain carbon steels. This versatile material offers excellent machinability and weldability. Typically, SAE AISI 1020 mild steel is found in either hot rolled or cold drawn forms, but it is most commonly available in turned and polished or cold drawn conditions. Its low carbon content makes it less suitable for induction or flame hardening.
Comprehensive AISI SAE 1020 Steel Properties & Specifications
Below is a detailed data sheet showcasing SAE AISI 1020 steel properties, including its chemical composition, physical characteristics, and mechanical attributes.
Chemical Composition Details
Physical Properties
Melting Point: 1515 °C (2760 °F)
Density of 1020 Steel: 7.87 g/cm³ (0.0361 lbs/in³)
Notes: 10
-6
/K = 10
-6
.K
-1
= (µm/m)/°C
Mechanical Properties of SAE AISI 1020 Mild Steel
The following data outlines the mechanical properties of AISI SAE 1020 steel, including its yield strength, tensile strength, elongation, section reduction, and hardness across various conditions.
Young's Modulus (Modulus of Elasticity) for SAE AISI 1020 carbon steel in its as-received condition: 186 GPa (27×10
6
psi).
Exceptional Machinability
SAE AISI 1020 carbon steel boasts a machinability rating of 65, which is determined based on a machinability standard of 100% for 1212 steel.
SAE AISI 1020 Steel Heat Treatment Processes
Heat treatment processes for SAE AISI 1020 mild steel include normalizing, annealing, and austenitizing.
Normalizing of AISI 1020
The typical normalizing temperature for SAE AISI 1020 mild steel is set at 915 °C (1675 °F).
Annealing of AISI 1020
Recommended temperature and cooling cycle for full annealing of small carbon steel forgings (size ≤ 3 in.):
The annealing temperature ranges from 855-900 °C (1575-1650 °F), with a cooling cycle from 855 °C (1575 °F) to 700 °C (1290 °F). The furnace cooling speed is 28 °C/h (50 °F/h), resulting in a Brinell hardness of 111-149 HB.
Reheating (Austenitizing)
Reheating (austenitizing) temperatures for hardening SAE 1020 steel range between 760-790 °C (1400-1450 °F). Carburizing is typically conducted at temperatures between 900 to 925 °C (1650 to 1700 °F).
Case Hardening
The surface hardening carburization temperature of 1020 carbon steel is 970-955 °C, and most of them are carried out in a mixed gas of methane and carrier gas. Hardening after carburizing is usually achieved by direct quenching from the carburizing temperature into water or brine. This meticulous process ensures a robust, hardened surface for high-performance applications.
Typical Heat Treatment for SAE 1020 Case Hardening
- Carbon Temperature: 900-925 °C (1650-1700 °F) Cooling Method: Water or caustic solution. This precise control of temperature and cooling medium enhances the durability and mechanical strength of the steel.
- Reheat Temperature: 790 °C (1450 °F) Cooling Method: Water or 3% sodium hydroxide. This reheat process optimizes the steel's microstructure for superior performance and resilience.
- Carbonitriding Temperature: 790-900 °C (1450-1650 °F) Cooling Method: Oil. This thermochemical treatment provides a hardened surface layer that significantly improves wear resistance and fatigue life.
- Temper Temperature: 120-205 °C (250-400 °F) Purpose: Stress relief and improving resistance to cracking (optional but beneficial). This step enhances the steel’s toughness and reduces the risk of brittle fractures.
Typical Forging Temperature
Typical forging temperature for AISI 1020 mild steel is 1290 °C (2350 °F). This high-temperature forging process allows for the precise shaping and refinement of the steel’s mechanical properties.
AISI 1020 Carbon Steel Welding
The Recommended Preheat and Interpass Temperatures for AISI SAE C1020 Steel:
For thickness ≤50mm (2 in.): Recommended Preheat and Interpass Temperature: Above -12 °C (for low hydrogen) and 38 °C for non-low hydrogen applications. This ensures optimal weld quality and structural integrity.
For thickness (t) 50< t ≤100: Recommended Preheat and Interpass Temperature: 93 °C (for low hydrogen) and 150 °C (for non-low hydrogen). These specific temperatures help prevent weld defects and enhance the overall strength of the weldment.
Postweld Heat Treatment (Optional) Temperature: 590-675 °C (1100-1250 °F). This treatment can further relieve stress and refine the microstructure, enhancing the welded joint's durability.
Application
ASTM AISI SAE 1020 steel boasts a versatile range of semi-finished products, including square, flat, and round steel bars, as well as steel plates. These can be used to manufacture truck, automotive, and agricultural equipment parts such as axles, mechanical components, cold head bolts, motor and pump shafts, ratchets, light gears, gear drives, worm gears, spindles, seat brackets, crane-cable drums, motor-brake wheels, and more. It is also commonly formed into steel channels, angles, I-beams, and H-beams, highlighting its adaptability for various industrial applications.
AISI SAE ASTM 1020 Steel Equivalent Material
SAE ASTM AISI 1020 carbon steel is equivalent to European EN (Germany DIN EN, British BSI, French NF), Japanese JIS, and Chinese GB standards. This compatibility makes it a highly versatile material suitable for a wide array of international applications.
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