In order to improve the quality of the project, it is essential to select the right materials. Among the many steels, A36 and 1018 steel are highly favored due to their wide range of applications. A detailed distinction between the characteristics, applications and costs of these two steels is crucial to ensure project success and optimize cost-effectiveness. This article will explore the unique properties of these two materials, A36 and 1018 steel, uate their performance in different engineering environments, and how to make wise material selection decisions in specific projects.
1018 steel is a low-carbon permeable steel widely used in pistons, screws, drive shafts, machine tools, springs, etc. It is mainly composed of iron and carbon, with a carbon content of about 0.18%, hence the name 1018 steel.
A36 is a carbon structural steel and belongs to the material grade under the American ASTM standard. A36 has a low carbon content, good mechanical properties, good strength, toughness and welding performance, and is suitable for carbon structural steel, steel plates and steel bars for riveted, bolted or welded structures of bridges, buildings and general structures.
A36 steel is commonly used to manufacture angle steel, I-beam, channel steel, H-beam, mild steel plate, rebar and mechanical parts.
Related Reading:
ASTM A36 vs SAE-AISI 1020 Carbon Steel Plate
1. What are A36 and 1018 steel?
1018 steel is a low-carbon permeable steel widely used in pistons, screws, drive shafts, machine tools, springs, etc. It is mainly composed of iron and carbon, with a carbon content of about 0.18%, hence the name 1018 steel.A36 is a carbon structural steel and belongs to the material grade under the American ASTM standard. A36 has a low carbon content, good mechanical properties, good strength, toughness and welding performance, and is suitable for carbon structural steel, steel plates and steel bars for riveted, bolted or welded structures of bridges, buildings and general structures.
A36 steel is commonly used to manufacture angle steel, I-beam, channel steel, H-beam, mild steel plate, rebar and mechanical parts.
2. A36 vs 1018 steel
| Attribute/Steel Type | 1018 Steel | A36 Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Carbon (C): 0.15 - 0.20% Manganese (Mn): 0.60 - 0.90% Phosphorus (P): ≤0.040% Sulfur (S): ≤0.050% Silicon (Si): 0.15 - 0.37% Iron (Fe): 98.81 - 99.26% |
Carbon (C): 0.25 - 0.29% Manganese (Mn): 0.70 - 1.00% Phosphorus (P): ≤0.04%Sulfur (S): ≤0.05% Silicon (Si): ≤0.40% Iron (Fe): 99% |
| Mechanical Properties | Ultimate Tensile Strength: 63,800 psi Yield Strength: 53,700 psiElongation: 15% Hardness: 50 HRC - 60 HRC Surface Hardness: 126 HB (Cold drawn) |
Ultimate Tensile Strength: 58,000 - 79,800 psi Yield Strength: 36,300 psi Elongation: 20% Hardness: Varies, depends on heat treatment |
| Machinability | Excellent, ideal for parts requiring good surface finish. | Good, but slightly less than 1018. |
| Weldability | Excellent due to lower carbon content. | Good, but may require preheating for thicker sections. |
| Applications | Used for high volume screw machine parts including shafts, spindles, pins, and rods. Suitable for applications needing good surface finish. | Used in structural applications like bridges, buildings, construction equipment, and more. |
| Cost | Can be more expensive due to specific properties and cold-rolled process. | Generally more cost-effective and widely available due to hot-rolled process. |
| Availability | Widely available, often in cold-rolled form. | More common in various shapes and larger quantities, often in hot-rolled form. |
| Physical Properties | Density: 7.87 g/cc Modulus of Elasticity: 200 GPa |
Density: Approximately 7.85 g/cc Modulus of Elasticity: Approximately 200 GPa |
| Heat Treatment | Can be annealed for improved machinability and ductility. | Can be hardened and tempered to achieve desired mechanical properties. |
| Surface Finish | Superior surface quality due to cold rolling process. | May have a rougher surface due to hot rolling process. |
| Additional Characteristics | Good ductility, toughness, and strength. Easily welded using most welding processes. |
High yield strength suitable for structural applications. Good formability, weldability, and workability. |
Related Reading:
ASTM A36 vs SAE-AISI 1020 Carbon Steel Plate
