SAE/AISI 1095 Carbon Steel (UNS G10950)

Image of SAE/AISI 1095 bars

SAE/AISI 1095 steel is primarily used in applications where high strength and hardness are required, such as blades, cutting tools, springs, and hand tools. It can be heat treated to achieve different hardness levels, and its fine grain structure allows for excellent edge retention and sharpness.

Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
Iron98.38%98.80%
Carbon0.90%1.03%
Manganese0.30%0.50%
Phosphorous0.04%
Sulfur0.05%

The following table provides a list of SAE/AISI 1095 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.

Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.

Table of SAE/AISI 1095 Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Density7850 kg/m3
Mechanical PropertiesMetric
Tensile Strength (Ultimate)685 MPa
Tensile Strength (Yield)525 MPa
Young’s Modulus (E)190 - 210 GPa
Bulk Modulus (K)140 GPa
Shear Modulus (G)80 GPa
Elongation at Break10%
Reduction of Area40%
Poisson’s Ratio (ν)0.27 - 0.30
Brinell Hardness197
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Thermal Conductivity50 W/m·K
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp)470 J/kg·K
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL)1.1×10-5 1/°C
Electrical PropertiesMetric
Electrical Conductivity5.57×106 S/m
Electrical Resistivity1.8×10-7 Ω·m

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 1095 Carbon Steel

AdvantagesDisadvantages
High HardnessLow Corrosion Resistance
Good Strength and ToughnessBrittleness
Edge RetentionLimited Ductility
Cost-Effective

Applications of 1095 Carbon Steel

AISI 1095 carbon steel finds applications in various industries and fields due to its desirable properties. Here are some common applications of 1095 carbon steel:

  • Blades and Knives: AISI 1095 steel is widely used in the manufacturing of blades, knives, and cutting tools. Its high carbon content provides excellent hardness, edge retention, and sharpness, making it suitable for applications that require a sharp cutting edge, such as hunting knives, kitchen knives, and industrial blades.
  • Springs: The combination of high strength and good elastic properties makes AISI 1095 steel well-suited for spring applications. It is used in the production of flat springs, coil springs, and other types of mechanical springs that require high resilience and durability.
  • Hand Tools: Many hand tools, such as chisels, punches, and woodworking tools, utilize AISI 1095 carbon steel due to its ability to maintain a sharp edge and withstand heavy use. The high carbon content enhances the tool’s strength and wear resistance, making it suitable for demanding applications.
  • Automotive Components: AISI 1095 steel is employed in various automotive components, including springs, clutch plates, and flat springs. Its strength, toughness, and fatigue resistance make it suitable for withstanding heavy loads and dynamic stress in automotive applications.
  • Industrial Machine Parts: AISI 1095 steel is used in the production of various industrial machine parts, such as cutting dies, gears, washers, and shafts. Its hardness, strength, and wear resistance are beneficial in high-stress environments, where these components need to withstand heavy loads and repetitive motion.
  • Musical Instruments: Some musical instruments, particularly percussion instruments like cymbals and gongs, utilize AISI 1095 carbon steel. Its hardness and ability to produce clear and resonant sounds make it suitable for these applications.
  • Firearms and Ammunition: AISI 1095 steel is occasionally used in the manufacturing of firearm components, such as springs, triggers, and sears, due to its strength and resilience. Additionally, it is used in ammunition production for various small arms cartridges.
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