EN8 (1.0425) and 070M20 (1.0402) are two fundamental medium-carbon steels with distinct characteristics that engineers must understand for proper material selection. At Steelmet Industries, we supply both grades in various forms to meet your project requirements.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Parameter | EN8 Steel | 070M20 Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Content | 0.36-0.44% (Higher) | 0.17-0.23% (Lower) |
| Tensile Strength | 700-850 MPa | 500-700 MPa |
| Primary Use | High-stress components | General engineering |
Detailed Comparison
1. Chemical Composition
| Element | EN8 (%) | 070M20 (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon | 0.36-0.44 | 0.17-0.23 |
| Manganese | 0.60-1.00 | 0.60-1.00 |
| Sulfur | ≤0.05 | ≤0.05 |
Key Insight: EN8’s higher carbon content makes it stronger but less ductile than 070M20.
2. Mechanical Properties
EN8 Advantages:
Better wear resistance
Superior response to heat treatment
Higher load-bearing capacity
070M20 Advantages:
Easier machining
Better weldability
More cost-effective for simple components
3. Available Forms at Steelmet Industries
Both grades available as:
Bright bars (Ø5-150mm)
Black bars (Ø20-250mm)
Precision ground stock
Custom forgings
Applications Comparison
Best Uses for EN8:
✓ Gears and shafts
✓ Hydraulic components
✓ High-stress fasteners
Best Uses for 070M20:
✓ General fabrication
✓ Cold-formed parts
✓ Welded structures
Expert Recommendations
Choose EN8 When:
You need heat-treated components
The application involves heavy loads
Wear resistance is critical
Choose 070M20 When:
Cost is a primary factor
You require good weldability
The parts won’t undergo extreme stress
Why Source From Steelmet Industries?
We provide:
✅ Certified material (EN 10204 3.1)
✅ Just-in-time delivery
✅ Custom processing (cutting, grinding)
✅ Technical support for material selection
Contact our sales team today for quotes on EN8 or 070M20 steel in your required specifications.
FAQ Section
Q: Can 070M20 be heat treated like EN8?
A: While possible, EN8 responds better to quenching and tempering due to its higher carbon content.
Q: Which grade is better for machining?
A: 070M20 machines more easily, though EN8 achieves good results with proper tooling.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between EN8 and 070M20 steel ensures optimal material selection for your engineering projects. Steelmet Industries stands ready to supply both grades in all standard forms and sizes – contact us today to discuss your requirements.
