Steel is a popular metal alloy consisting mostly of iron and some carbon. Other elements are sometimes added, such as manganese, chromium, vanadium, and tungsten.
Modern steelmaking began in 1858 when it became possible to produce large quantities economically. Steel is thermally conductive, highly corrosion-resistant, ductile, and malleable.
Applications
- Automobile parts
- Aircraft components
- Construction equipment
- Machine tooling
- Crankshafts
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- Automobile parts
- Aircraft components
- Construction equipment
- Machine tooling
- Crankshafts
Machining Options
CNC Milling
Waterjet Cutting
CNC Turning
EDM
Laser Cutting
Plasma Cutting
Secondary Manufacturing
Surface Finishing
Aluminum Alloys
Steel 12L14
Excellent machinability and surface appearance. Typical applications include brake hose ends, pulleys, and hydraulic fittings.
Steel 4140
Good fatigue, abrasion, and impact resistance. Readily machined in an annealed state and can be heat treated. Used in crankshafts, gears, and axles.
Steel 4130
Similar to 4140, but has better weldability and formability. Often used for military equipment and in demanding structural applications.
O1 Tool Steel
Highly machinable and resistant to wear and abrasions. Typical applications include punch and die tooling, cams, bushings, cutting tools, and gauges.
D2 Tool Steel
Great wear and abrasion resistance, and known for its hardness. Typically used for long-run dies and blanking, as well as shear blades and gauges.
Steel 1018
A common cold-rolled steel with good strength and ductility. Excellent surface finish and weldability, and is more machinable than lower carbon steel alloys. It is often used for mounting plates, spacers and fixtures.
Steel A36
A common hot rolled steel with a rougher surface than cold rolled steels. Lower yield strength than 1018, which makes it easier to bend, but decreases machinability. Often used in base plates, machine frames, and automotive equipment.
Steel 1008
Good formability and high strength, with an excellent surface finish, compared to other alloys. Commonly used in extruded and cold-pressed parts, home appliances, and automotive applications.