SAE/AISI 1085 Carbon Steel (UNS G10850)
SAE/AISI 1085 is a high-carbon steel alloy known for its exceptional hardness, tensile strength, and wear resistance. It is widely used in demanding mechanical and industrial applications such as cutting tools, springs, and structural components.
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| Chemical Composition | ||
|---|---|---|
| Element | Min | Max |
| Iron | 97.96% | 98.50% |
| Carbon | 0.80% | 0.95% |
| Manganese | 0.70% | 1.00% |
| Phosphorous | —— | 0.04% |
| Sulfur | —— | 0.05% |
The following table provides a list of SAE/AISI 1085 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.
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| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Density | 7850 kg/m3 |
| Mechanical Properties | Metric |
| Tensile Strength (Ultimate) | ≥ 692.9 MPa |
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | ≥ 538 MPa |
| Young’s Modulus (E) | 190 - 210 GPa |
| Shear Modulus (G) | 78 GPa |
| Elongation at Break | ≥ 10% |
| Reduction of Area | ≥ 40% |
| Poisson’s Ratio (ν) | 0.27 - 0.30 |
| Brinell Hardness | ≥ 192 |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Thermal Conductivity | 52 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 470 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 1.2×10-5 1/°C |
The values in this table are approximate and can vary depending on various factors such as the specific manufacturing process and heat treatment applied to the alloy.
Advantages & Disadvantages of 1085 Carbon Steel
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| High strength | Limited corrosion resistance |
| Good wear resistance | Lower toughness |
| Ease of sharpening | Heat treatment sensitivity |
| Cost-effective |
Applications of 1085 Carbon Steel
SAE/AISI 1085 carbon steel is used in a variety of high-performance applications requiring strength, hardness, and durability, including:
- Knives and Blades: Commonly used in the manufacturing of knives, machetes, and other cutting tools. Its high carbon content and excellent hardness allow for the production of sharp and durable blades that can withstand repeated use.
- Hand Tools: Due to its strength and wear resistance, it is utilized in the production of hand tools such as chisels, punches, and hammers. These tools require robust materials to withstand heavy impacts and provide efficient performance.
- Springs: Springs that require high tensile strength and resilience often use this steel. It is suitable for applications such as automotive suspension springs, industrial machinery springs, and agricultural equipment springs.
- Agricultural Implements: Employed in the manufacturing of various agricultural implements, including blades for plows, cultivators, and harrows. Its hardness and resistance to wear enable it to withstand the demanding conditions encountered in agricultural operations.
- Industrial Machine Parts: Components requiring high strength, such as gears, shafts, and connecting rods, often incorporate this steel. It provides the necessary toughness and durability to withstand heavy loads and repetitive motions.
- Cutlery and Utensils: Used for the production of cutlery items and utensils, where its hardness and ability to retain a sharp edge are advantageous. However, carbon steel knives require proper care and maintenance to prevent corrosion.
- Tooling and Dies: The high hardness and wear resistance make it suitable for tooling and die applications. It can be utilized for stamping, forming, and cutting operations in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.