Introduction
16MnCr5 and 20MnCr5 are popular case-hardening steels used in high-stress components. While similar, their carbon and manganese differences impact:
Core strength after heat treatment
Case hardness depth
Optimal applications
Steelmet Industries provides both grades as:
🔹 Round bars (Ø 10mm – 300mm)
🔹 Precision ground stock
🔹 Custom-cut blanks
Chemical Composition Comparison
| Element (%) | 16MnCr5 | 20MnCr5 |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.14 – 0.19 | 0.17 – 0.22 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 1.00 – 1.30 | 1.10 – 1.40 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 0.80 – 1.10 | 1.00 – 1.30 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.025 | ≤ 0.025 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.035 | ≤ 0.035 |
🔹 Key Difference: 20MnCr5 has higher carbon and chromium for increased hardenability.
Mechanical Properties (After Case Hardening)
| Property | 16MnCr5 | 20MnCr5 |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Hardness | 58 – 62 HRC | 58 – 62 HRC |
| Core Strength | 800 – 1000 MPa | 900 – 1100 MPa |
| Impact Toughness | Good | Moderate |
✅ 20MnCr5 develops 10-15% higher core strength but slightly lower toughness.
Key Differences & Applications
1. Heat Treatment Response
16MnCr5: Better for shallow case depths (<1mm)
20MnCr5: Preferred for deeper hardening (1-2mm case depth)
2. Typical Uses
16MnCr5 Best For:
Light-duty gears
Clutch components
Camshafts
20MnCr5 Best For:
Heavy-duty transmission gears
Axle shafts
High-load bearings
3. Machinability
Both grades machine well in annealed condition, with 16MnCr5 being slightly easier.
Equivalents & Alternatives
| Grade | DIN | AISI | ISO |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16MnCr5 | 1.7131 | 5115 | 14MnCr5 |
| 20MnCr5 | 1.7147 | 5120 | 20MnCr5 |
For higher toughness: 18CrNiMo7-6
Selection Guide
Moderate loads + better impact resistance → 16MnCr5
Heavy loads + deeper hardening → 20MnCr5
Steelmet Industries offers:
🔹 Both grades in annealed or pre-hardened conditions
🔹 Custom heat treatment services
🔹 Precision machining stock
📞 Request samples or datasheets for your specific application.
Conclusion
While both are excellent case-hardening steels, 20MnCr5’s higher carbon makes it stronger for heavy-duty applications, while 16MnCr5 offers better toughness for dynamic loads.
Steelmet Industries stocks 16MnCr5 and 20MnCr5 in ready-to-machine forms – contact us for technical support and pricing.
