ASTM A36 carbon steel is the most commonly available of the hot-rolled steels. It is generally available in round rod, square bar, rectangle bar, as well as steel shapes such as I-Beams, H-beams, angles, and channels. The hot roll process means that the surface on this steel will be somewhat rough. Note that its yield strength is also significantly less than 1018 - this means that it will bend much more quickly than will 1018. Finally, machining this material is noticeably more difficult than 1018 steel, but the cost is usually significantly lower.
Strength: A36 carbon steel has a minimum tensile strength of 400 MPa and a minimum yield strength of 250 MPa, making it an ideal choice for structural applications.
Ductility: A36 carbon steel has good ductility, which means that it can be easily formed and shaped without cracking or breaking. This property makes it ideal for applications that require complex shapes or designs.
Weldability: A36 carbon steel is known for its excellent weldability, making it a popular choice for welding, brazing, and soldering. It can be welded using common welding techniques, such as TIG, MIG, and stick welding.
Machinability: A36 carbon steel has good machinability, which means that it can be easily machined using common machining techniques, such as turning, milling, and drilling.
Magnetic Properties: A36 carbon steel is magnetic, which makes it suitable for applications that require magnetic properties.
Corrosion Resistance: A36 carbon steel is not known for its corrosion resistance and may require additional treatments or coatings to prevent corrosion.
Iron (Fe) | 99% |
Carbon (C) | 0.26% |
Manganese (Mn) | 0.75% |
Copper (Cu) | 0.2% |
Phosphorus (P) | 0.04% max |
Sulfur (S) | 0.05% max |
Ultimate Tensile Strength, psi | 58,000 - 79,800 |
Yield Strength, psi | 36,300 |
Elongation | 20.0% |
Read More:
1018 Steel vs A36: A Comparative Analysis of Mechanical Properties and Applications