Steel Grade Comparision

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considering factors such as strength, corrosion resistance, weldability, formability, and cost. Consult with a steel expert: if you are unsure about which steel grade is the best fit for your project. They can provide you with valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.


Most stainless steel ordered around the world is Grade 304. It offers the standard corrosion resistance, formability, strength, and easy maintenance for which stainless is known.

Types of Steel and Their Properties

Steel is an essential material used across various industries, including hydraulic systems. Understanding the different types of steel, their chemical compositions, physical properties, and price ranges helps in selecting the most suitable material for specific applications.

1.Carbon Steel

  • Description: Carbon steel is composed primarily of iron and carbon. The amount of carbon determines its strength and hardness.
  • Chemical Properties:
    • Carbon Content: 0.05% to 2.1%
    • Other Elements: Minimal amounts of manganese, silicon, sulfur, and phosphorus.
  • Physical Properties:
    • Density: Approximately 7.85 g/cm³
    • Tensile Strength: 370 - 700 MPa (varies with carbon content)
    • Hardness: Varies with carbon content (Rockwell B to C scales)
    • Ductility: Generally good, but decreases with higher carbon content
  • Price Range:
    • Low Carbon Steel: $500 - $1,200 per ton
    • Medium Carbon Steel: $700 - $1,500 per ton
    • High Carbon Steel: $1,000 - $2,000 per ton
  • Applications in Hydraulic Industry: Commonly used for manufacturing hydraulic tubes due to its strength and affordability.

2. Alloy Steel

  • Description: Alloy steel includes various elements (such as chromium, nickel, and molybdenum) to improve specific properties like strength and corrosion resistance.
  • Chemical Properties:
    • Carbon Content: 0.2% to 0.9%
    • Other Elements: Varies widely (chromium, nickel, molybdenum, vanadium, etc.)
  • Physical Properties:
    • Density: Approximately 7.8 - 8.1 g/cm³ (varies with alloying elements)
    • Tensile Strength: 500 - 1,200 MPa (varies with alloy composition and heat treatment)
    • Hardness: Generally high (Rockwell C scale)
    • Ductility: Improved compared to carbon steel due to alloying elements
  • Price Range:
    • Low Alloy Steel: $800 - $2,000 per ton
    • High Alloy Steel: $1,200 - $3,000 per ton
    • Applications in Hydraulic Industry: Suitable for high-pressure hydraulic components where enhanced mechanical properties are required.

3. Stainless Steel

  • Description: Stainless steel is known for its corrosion resistance, achieved by adding chromium and sometimes nickel. It is available in several grades, each with specific properties.
  • Chemical Properties:
    • Chromium Content: Minimum 10.5%
    • Nickel Content: 0% to 30% (varies by grade)
    • Other Elements: Molybdenum, manganese, silicon, depending on grade
  • Physical Properties:
    • Density: Approximately 7.7 - 8.0 g/cm³
    • Tensile Strength: 520 - 1,200 MPa (varies by grade)
    • Hardness: Rockwell B to C scales (varies with grade and heat treatment)
    • Ductility: High, especially in austenitic grades
  • Price Range:
    • Austenitic Stainless Steel: $2,000 - $4,000 per ton
    • Ferritic Stainless Steel: $1,500 - $3,000 per ton
    • Martensitic Stainless Steel: $2,500 - $4,500 per ton
    • Applications in Hydraulic Industry: Ideal for hydraulic systems exposed to corrosive environments due to its excellent corrosion resistance.

4. Tool Steel

  • Description: Tool steel is designed for manufacturing tools and dies. It contains alloying elements that provide high hardness and wear resistance.
  • Chemical Properties:
    • Carbon Content: 0.5% to 1.5%
    • Other Elements: Tungsten, molybdenum, vanadium, cobalt (varies by type)
  • Physical Properties:
    • Density: Approximately 7.7 - 8.3 g/cm³
    • Tensile Strength: 800 - 1,500 MPa (varies with type and heat treatment)
    • Hardness: High (Rockwell C scale, often 60+)
    • Ductility: Generally lower than carbon and alloy steels due to high hardness
  • Price Range:
    • High-Speed Tool Steel: $3,000 - $5,000 per ton
    • Cold Work Tool Steel: $2,500 - $4,500 per ton
    • Hot Work Tool Steel: $3,000 - $5,000 per ton
  • Applications in Hydraulic Industry:Used for specific components requiring high hardness and wear resistance, like seals or fittings.

Type of Steel

Chemical Properties

Physical Properties

Price Range

Applications

Carbon Steel

Carbon: 0.05% to 2.1%, Minimal alloying elements

Density: ~7.85 g/cm³, Tensile Strength: 370 - 700 MPa, Hardness: B to C, Good ductility

Low Carbon: $500 - $1,200/ton, Medium Carbon: $700 - $1,500/ton, High Carbon: $1,000 - $2,000/ton

Hydraulic tubes, construction, automotive parts

Alloy Steel

Carbon: 0.2% to 0.9%, Varies (Cr, Ni, Mo, V, etc.)

Density: ~7.8 - 8.1 g/cm³, Tensile Strength: 500 - 1,200 MPa, Hardness: High, Improved ductility

Low Alloy: $800 - $2,000/ton, High Alloy: $1,200 - $3,000/ton

High-pressure hydraulic components, aerospace, manufacturing tools

Stainless Steel

Chromium: ≥10.5%, Nickel: 0% to 30%, Others vary

Density: ~7.7 - 8.0 g/cm³, Tensile Strength: 520 - 1,200 MPa, Hardness: B to C, High ductility

Austenitic: $2,000 - $4,000/ton, Ferritic: $1,500 - $3,000/ton, Martensitic: $2,500 - $4,500/ton

Corrosive environments, kitchenware, medical devices

Tool Steel

Carbon: 0.5% to 1.5%, Alloying elements (W, Mo, V, Co)

Density: ~7.7 - 8.3 g/cm³, Tensile Strength: 800 - 1,500 MPa, Hardness: High (C scale), Lower ductility

High-Speed: $3,000 - $5,000/ton, Cold Work: $2,500 - $4,500/ton, Hot Work: $3,000 - $5,000/ton

Cutting tools, molds, dies


Key Takeaways for Lasani Fluid Power LLP

  • Carbon Steel: Cost-effective for standard hydraulic applications with good general properties.
  • Alloy Steel: Ideal for high-stress applications and high-pressure hydraulic systems, offering enhanced mechanical properties.
  • Stainless Steel: Perfect for environments where corrosion resistance is crucial, offering durability and high performance.
  • Tool Steel: Useful for components that require high hardness and wear resistance, such as specific hydraulic fittings and seals.

Disclaimer

Price ranges provided are approximate and may vary based on market conditions, supplier, quantity, and specific grades. Always consult with suppliers or industry experts for the most accurate and current pricing and material specifications relevant to your specific requirements.




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