Discover the impressive properties of SAE AISI 1020 Steel. Explore the yield strength and find equivalent materials that match the remarkable qualities of C1020 Carbon Steel.
Unveil the potential of ASTM SAE AISI 1020 Steel, a top choice in the industry.
Renowned for its versatility, AISI 1020 steel, also known as C1020 steel in its cold-worked form, is a preferred material in various industrial applications. With excellent machinability and weldability, this low-carbon, plain carbon steel can be hot-rolled or cold-drawn. Typically available in turned and polished or cold-drawn conditions, 1020 steel resists induction and flame hardening, making it a reliable choice for numerous uses.
Comprehensive Details on AISI SAE 1020 Steel Properties & Specifications
The following data sheet comprehensively lists the properties of SAE AISI 1020 steel, including its chemical composition and both physical and mechanical properties.
Chemical Composition Breakdown
Insight into 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 Detailed
The data below showcases the mechanical properties of SAE AISI 1020 steel, including yield strength, tensile strength, elongation, section reduction, and hardness under various conditions.
In the as-received condition, SAE AISI 1020 carbon steel boasts a Young's modulus (modulus of elasticity) of 186 GPa (27×10
6
psi).
Machinability Ratings
SAE AISI 1020 carbon steel has a machinability rating of 65, compared to a 100% rating for 1212 steel.
SAE AISI 1020 Steel: Heat Treatment Methods
Explore the various heat treatment processes applicable to SAE AISI 1020 mild steel, including normalizing, annealing, and austenitizing.
Normalizing Process for AISI 1020
For optimal results, the typical normalizing temperature for SAE AISI 1020 mild steel is set at 915 °C (1675 °F).
Annealing Procedures for AISI 1020
Here are the recommended temperature and cooling cycles for fully annealing small carbon steel forgings (size ≤ 3 in.):
The annealing temperature ranges from 855-900 °C (1575-1650 °F). The recommended cooling cycle goes from 855 °C (1575 °F) to 700 °C (1290 °F), with a furnace cooling speed of 28 °C/h (50 °F/h), resulting in a Brinell hardness of 111-149 HB.
Reheating (Austenitizing) Techniques
For hardening SAE 1020 steel, reheating (austenitizing) temperatures range from 760-790 °C (1400-1450 °F). Carburizing is typically conducted at 900 to 925 °C (1650 to 1700 °F).
Understanding Case Hardening
The surface hardening carburization process for 1020 carbon steel operates optimally between temperatures of 970-955 °C. This is typically conducted in an environment enriched with methane and carrier gas. To achieve hardening post-carburizing, the steel is directly quenched from its carburizing temperature, usually plunging it into water or brine.
Optimized Heat Treatment Protocol for SAE 1020 Case Hardening
- Carburization Temperature: 900-925 °C (1650-1700 °F), with cooling executed either in water or caustic solutions.
- Reheat Temperature: 790 °C (1450 °F), utilizing water or a 3% sodium hydroxide solution for cooling.
- Carbonitriding Process: Conducted at temperatures ranging from 790-900 °C (1450-1650 °F), with oil as the preferred cooling medium.
- Tempering Temperature: 120-205 °C (250-400 °F), primarily for stress alleviation and enhancing *** resistance (optional).
Optimal Forging Temperature Guidelines
For AISI 1020 mild steel, the typical forging temperature is 1290 °C (2350 °F).
AISI 1020 Carbon Steel Welding Practices
Recommended Preheat and Interpass Temperatures for AISI SAE C1020 Steel:
For thicknesses up to 50mm (2 in.): Maintain a preheat and interpass temperature above -12 °C for low hydrogen processes and 38 °C for other methods.
For thicknesses between 50mm and 100mm: The recommended preheat and interpass temperature is 93 °C for low hydrogen processes and 150 °C for others.
Optional Post-Weld Heat Treatment: Maintain a temperature range between 590-675 °C (1100-1250 °F).
Versatile Applications
ASTM AISI SAE 1020 steel is incredibly versatile, available in semi-finished forms like square, flat, and round bars, as well as steel plates. These materials are essential in manufacturing truck, automotive, and agricultural equipment parts such as axles, mechanical components, cold-headed bolts, motor and pump shafts, and more. Additionally, they are used for producing steel channels, angles, I-beams, and H-beams.
Equivalent Standards for AISI SAE ASTM 1020 Steel
SAE ASTM AISI 1020 carbon steel meets equivalent standards in European EN (including Germany’s DIN EN, British BSI, and French NF), Japanese JIS, and Chinese GB specifications.
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