SAE/AISI 5140 Alloy Steel (UNS G51400)
SAE/AISI 5140 is a chromium alloy steel that is known for its high strength, toughness, and wear resistance. It is commonly used in a variety of applications, including gears, shafts, and other machine parts that require high strength and durability.
| Chemical Composition | ||
|---|---|---|
| Element | Min | Max |
| Iron | 97.395% | 98.07% |
| Carbon | 0.38% | 0.43% |
| Chromium | 0.70% | 0.90% |
| Manganese | 0.70% | 0.90% |
| Phosphorous | 0.035% | |
| Silicon | 0.15% | 0.30% |
| Sulfur | 0.04% | |
The following table provides a list of SAE/AISI 5140 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.
Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Density | 7850 kg/m3 |
| Mechanical Properties | Metric |
| Tensile Strength (Ultimate) | 570 MPa |
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | 295 MPa |
| Young’s Modulus (E) | 190 - 210 GPa |
| Bulk Modulus (K) | 140 GPa |
| Shear Modulus (G) | 80 GPa |
| Poisson’s Ratio (ν) | 0.27 - 0.30 |
| Brinell Hardness | 167 |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Thermal Conductivity | 44.6 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 470 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 1.3×10-5 1/°C |
| Electrical Properties | Metric |
| Electrical Conductivity | 4.18×106 S/m |
| Electrical Resistivity | 2.4×10-7 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 5140 Alloy Steel
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| High strength and toughness | Limited corrosion resistance |
| Good hardenability | Moderate weldability |
| Wear resistance | Lower impact resistance compared to some steels |
| Versatility for various manufacturing processes | Susceptible to cracking during heat treatment |
| Availability and affordability | Requires proper heat treatment for optimal properties |
Applications of 5140 Alloy Steel
AISI 5140 steel finds applications in various industries and sectors due to its desirable properties. Some common applications of 5140 steel include:
- Gears and Shafts: AISI 5140 steel is widely used in the manufacturing of gears and shafts for machinery and automotive applications. Its high strength, toughness, and wear resistance make it suitable for transmitting power and handling heavy loads.
- Bolts and Fasteners: 5140 steel is commonly employed in the production of bolts, nuts, and fasteners due to its good hardenability and strength. These components require high tensile strength and durability to secure joints in structures and machinery.
- Crankshafts: The robust nature of AISI 5140 steel makes it an excellent choice for crankshafts in engines and heavy machinery. Its high strength and fatigue resistance enable it to withstand the cyclic loads and stresses associated with rotational motion.
- Axles and Suspension Components: The toughness and impact resistance of 5140 steel make it suitable for axles, suspension components, and other parts in automotive and transportation industries. It can endure the demanding conditions and load-bearing requirements encountered in these applications.
- Hand Tools: AISI 5140 steel is utilized in the manufacturing of hand tools such as wrenches, hammers, and chisels. Its combination of strength, toughness, and wear resistance ensures longevity and efficient performance under demanding working conditions.
- Machine Components: Various machine components, including levers, couplings, and spindles, can be made from 5140 steel due to its versatility and machinability. It can be easily shaped and fabricated to meet specific design requirements.
- Industrial Equipment: AISI 5140 steel is employed in the production of various industrial equipment, such as pumps, valves, and compressors. Its strength and corrosion resistance properties make it suitable for applications where reliability and performance are crucial.