SAE/AISI E52100 Alloy Steel (UNS G52986)

Image of SAE/AISI E52100 bars

SAE/AISI E52100 is a high-carbon, chromium alloy steel that has great depth hardenability and high wear resistance. It is commonly used in bearing applications, such as gears, shafts, and pins.

Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
Iron96.50%97.32%
Carbon0.98%1.10%
Chromium1.30%1.60%
Manganese0.25%0.45%
Phosphorous0.025%
Silicon0.15%0.30%
Sulfur0.025%

The following table provides a list of SAE/AISI E52100 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.

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

Table of SAE/AISI E52100 Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Density7810 kg/m3
Mechanical PropertiesMetric
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
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Thermal Conductivity46.6 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 E52100 Alloy Steel

AdvantagesDisadvantages
High hardness and wear resistanceSusceptible to corrosion if not protected or maintained properly
Excellent strength and toughnessRelatively high cost compared to some other steels
Good dimensional stabilityRequires careful heat treatment for optimal performance
Superior fatigue resistanceLimited weldability
High load-carrying capacityProne to brittleness under certain conditions
Suitable for high-temperature applications

Applications of E52100 Alloy Steel

E52100 steel, known for its high hardness, wear resistance, and strength, finds various applications in different industries. Some common applications of E52100 steel include:

  • Ball Bearings: E52100 steel is widely used in the manufacturing of ball bearings. Its excellent hardness, wear resistance, and fatigue resistance make it suitable for handling high loads and rotational speeds in machinery and equipment.
  • Roller Bearings: Similar to ball bearings, E52100 steel is employed in the production of roller bearings. These bearings are used in applications such as automotive components, industrial machinery, and aerospace equipment, where high load-carrying capacity and durability are crucial.
  • Thrust Bearings: E52100 steel is utilized in thrust bearings, which are designed to handle axial loads. These bearings are commonly found in automotive transmissions, machine tools, and heavy-duty equipment.
  • Bushings and Sleeves: E52100 steel is used in the fabrication of bushings and sleeves, which provide low-friction surfaces for rotating shafts or axles. These components are employed in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.
  • Linear Motion Systems: E52100 steel is used in linear motion systems, such as linear guides and rails. These systems facilitate smooth and precise linear movement in machinery and equipment.
  • Cutting Tools: Due to its hardness and wear resistance, E52100 steel is sometimes utilized in the production of cutting tools, such as drills, milling cutters, and taps. These tools are employed in metalworking processes to shape, cut, or drill materials.
  • Automotive Components: E52100 steel can be found in various automotive components that require high strength, wear resistance, and durability. Examples include gears, shafts, and transmission components.
  • Machine Components: E52100 steel is used in the fabrication of machine components that experience high stress and wear, such as spindles, shafts, and cam followers.
  • Surgical Instruments: E52100 steel, with its high hardness and corrosion resistance, is used in the manufacturing of surgical instruments, particularly those requiring sharp cutting edges.
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