Carbon steel consists mainly of iron and carbon, with only trace amounts of other elements. Common types of carbon steel include low-carbon steel, medium-carbon steel and high-carbon steel.

Low-carbon steel (carbon content < 0.3%) has good ductility and is easy to form. It is commonly used in the manufacture of sheet metal and structural components.

Medium-carbon steel (carbon content 0.3%–0.6%) has high strength and hardness. So, it is commonly used for axles, gears and shafts.

High-carbon steel (carbon content >0.6%) is extremely hard and wear-resistant. It is an ideal material for the manufacture of cutting tools and springs.

Carbon steel has high strength and hardness (particularly in high-carbon steel). It is easy to get and cost-effective. Low-carbon and medium-carbon steels are easy to machine and weld.

However, carbon steel has poor corrosion resistance and limited toughness at extreme temperatures. High-carbon steel is brittle and easy to fracture.

In addition to carbon, alloy steel contains other metallic elements such as chromium, nickel, molybdenum, vanadium or manganese. These elements are added to enhance specific mechanical or chemical properties of steel. Alloy steel is primarily classified into low-alloy steel (with an alloy element content of less than 5 per cent) and high-alloy steel (with an alloy element content of more than 5 per cent).

The addition of chromium to alloy steel serves to improve hardness and corrosion resistance. The addition of nickel improves toughness and impact strength. The addition of molybdenum enhances high-temperature performance.

Alloy steel has excellent strength and durability, as well as superior corrosion and wear resistance. Consequently, this material performs exceptionally well under extreme conditions (high temperatures, high pressures and chemical corrosion).

However, alloy steel is relatively expensive and, in some cases, more difficult to machine or weld. Components manufactured by 3D printing technology may require post-processing (such as heat treatment).

Carbon steel is frequently used in the manufacture of frames, fasteners, automotive components, structural beams etc. It is a good choice when cost budget is a factor, corrosion is not a major concern and moderate mechanical properties is enough. If your components are to be machined, welded or formed, carbon steel will meet your requirements.

Alloy steel is frequently used in the manufacture of gears, pressure vessels, aerospace components and high-performance tools. When your components require excellent mechanical properties, alloy steel is an optimal selection. If your components will be used in corrosive or high-stress environments, the material’s heat resistance or wear resistance becomes important, and alloy steel can meet your requirements.

Although carbon steel and alloy steel have different applications, they both play an important role in the manufacturing industry. If you are working on a project where you require high-strength components within a limited budget, carbon steel may be your best option. However, if your components require high toughness, wear resistance or corrosion resistance, alloy steel is the perfect option.

At IN3DTEC, we present a comprehensive selection of steels suitable for applications such as CNC machining, 3D printing and metalworking. Simply upload your part to our online shop to receive an instant online quote. If you are unsure which steel is best suited to your requirements, our team will be happy to assist you.