Introduction
SAE 1018 and SAE 1010 are widely used low-carbon steels, but their subtle differences in composition lead to distinct performance characteristics. This comparison covers:
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Chemical composition
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Mechanical properties
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Machinability and weldability
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Typical applications
Steelmet Industries stocks both grades in round bars, flat bars, and sheets – available in standard and custom sizes.
Chemical Composition Comparison
| Element (%) | SAE 1018 | SAE 1010 |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.15 – 0.20 | 0.08 – 0.13 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.60 – 0.90 | 0.30 – 0.60 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.04 | ≤ 0.04 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.05 | ≤ 0.05 |
🔹 Key Difference: SAE 1018 has higher carbon and manganese content, giving it better strength.
Mechanical Properties
| Property | SAE 1018 | SAE 1010 |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 440 – 640 MPa | 365 – 460 MPa |
| Yield Strength | 370 MPa | 305 MPa |
| Elongation (%) | 15% | 20% |
| Hardness (BHN) | 126 | 95 |
✅ SAE 1018 offers 20-30% higher strength but slightly less ductility than 1010.
Key Differences & Applications
1. Machinability & Weldability
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SAE 1010: Excellent for deep drawing and cold forming due to higher ductility
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SAE 1018: Better machinability in cold drawn condition (higher Mn content improves chip breaking)
2. Strength vs. Formability
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Choose SAE 1010 for:
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Automotive panels
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Wire products
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Applications requiring extensive forming
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Choose SAE 1018 for:
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Shafts and pins
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Machinery parts
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Fasteners requiring more strength
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3. Cost & Availability
Both grades are economical, with SAE 1010 being slightly cheaper due to lower alloy content.
Equivalents & Alternatives
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SAE 1018 ≈ EN 1.0401 (Europe), C15E (ISO)
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SAE 1010 ≈ EN 1.0301 (Europe), DC01 (ISO)
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For better machinability: SAE 12L14 (leaded steel)
Which Grade Should You Choose?
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Maximum formability → SAE 1010
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Balanced strength and machinability → SAE 1018
Steelmet Industries provides:
🔹 1018/1010 cold drawn bars / wires (precision tolerances)
🔹 Rounds, Wire Rods, Sheets & Plates
🔹 Custom cutting and processing
📞 Contact us for technical specifications or volume pricing.
Conclusion
While similar as low-carbon steels, SAE 1018’s higher carbon/manganese makes it stronger, while SAE 1010 excels in formability. Understanding these differences ensures optimal material selection.
Steelmet Industries supplies both grades in ready-to-ship and custom-processed forms – inquire today for your project needs.
