Comprehensive Guide to 1.0402 Steel
1.0402 steel, also known as C22 or AISI 1020, is a low-carbon steel with excellent machinability and weldability. This guide explores its properties, heat treatment, and applications, providing a comprehensive overview for engineers and manufacturers.
1. Introduction to 1.0402 Steel
- Definition:
1.0402 is a low-carbon, general-purpose steel that offers a combination of strength, ductility, and machinability. Its low carbon content makes it easy to work with, especially for applications requiring welding and forming. - Standards:
- DIN: 1.0402
- EN: C22
- AISI/SAE: 1020
2. Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of 1.0402 steel contributes to its mechanical properties and ease of processing:
| Element | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.17 – 0.24 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.40 – 0.70 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.40 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.035 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.035 |
| Chromium (Cr) | ≤ 0.40 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | ≤ 0.10 |
This composition ensures good machinability while maintaining moderate strength.
3. Physical Properties
1.0402 steel exhibits the following physical characteristics:
- Density: Approximately 7.8 g/cm³
- Modulus of Elasticity: ~210 GPa
- Thermal Conductivity: ~51.9 W/m·K
These properties make it suitable for applications requiring moderate strength and thermal stability.
4. Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties of 1.0402 in its typical state are as follows:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (Ultimate) | ~460 MPa |
| Yield Strength | ~240 MPa |
| Elongation at Break | ~24% |
| Brinell Hardness | ~130 HB |
| Poisson’s Ratio | ~0.29 |
These properties balance strength and ductility, making it a versatile choice for structural and mechanical applications.
5. Heat Treatment
1.0402 steel can undergo various heat treatments to adjust its properties for specific applications:
- Annealing:
Heat to 870°C – 910°C, hold for sufficient time, and cool slowly in the furnace. This process improves ductility and machinability. - Normalizing:
Heat to 890°C – 940°C, hold, and air cool. Normalizing refines the grain structure and improves toughness. - Hardening:
Heat to 860°C – 900°C, followed by quenching in oil or water. Hardening increases surface wear resistance. - Tempering:
Performed after hardening to reduce brittleness and achieve the desired toughness.
6. Applications
1.0402 steel is widely used in various industries due to its versatility:
- Structural Components: Beams, columns, and other load-bearing structures.
- Automotive Parts: Shafts, gears, and bolts that require strength and durability.
- Cold-Headed Products: Fasteners and components formed through cold-heading.
- Case-Hardened Applications: Suitable for carburized parts requiring a hard surface and ductile core.
7. Weldability and Machinability
- Weldability:
1.0402 steel has excellent weldability and can be welded using standard methods such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding. Preheating is generally not required for thin sections. - Machinability:
Good machinability, especially in the annealed or normalized state, making it suitable for machining processes like turning, drilling, and milling.
8. Corrosion Resistance
1.0402 steel has moderate corrosion resistance due to its low alloy content. To improve its performance in harsh environments, coatings like galvanization or painting are recommended.
9. Conclusion
1.0402 steel, with its low carbon content, excellent machinability, and good weldability, is a reliable material for a wide range of applications. Its versatility allows it to be used in both structural and mechanical components, while its heat treatment options offer flexibility to meet specific performance requirements.
This guide serves as a resource for understanding the properties and potential of 1.0402 steel, making it easier to select and process for industrial needs.
