1018 Carbon Steel Data

1018 is among the most commonly available grades available in the world. It is widely available in cold finished rounds, squares, flat bar and hexagons. Despite its unimpressive mechanical properties, the alloy is easily formed, machined, welded and fabricated. Due to its higher Mn content, it can, in thin sections, be hardened to Rc 42.  1018 is rated at 62% of 1112 carbon steel. The alloy can be easily brought to a fine finish, its chips are continuous and hard and it can be machined in all conditions.  1018 has been successfully welded using most all the common practices including gas, resistance, oxyacetylene, and submerged melt welding.  Forge this alloy in the range of 1825-2300 F.  1018 can easily be hot worked.  Cold working 1018 will have a significant affect on hardness and mechanical properties. Intermediate annealing is required to overcome its tendency to work harden.  A full anneal can be achieved by soaking at 1650 F followed by furnace cooling. Process annealing can be done at 1200 F.

1018 is a general purpose low carbon steel with good case hardening qualities. It is especially suited to cold forming and bending operations. Machinability is rated at 76% of B1112.