Carbon steel is a mixture of two elements, iron and carbon. The more carbon in the metal the higher hardness and strength values, however the product becomes less ductile and more difficult to weld. Higher carbon content lowers steel's melting point and its temperature resistance performance.
 

There are three groups for Carbon steel:
 

Low Carbon –

Carbon content vary from 0.05% to 0.25% with up to 0.4% manganese content.

For example 1018 Steel – it has lower strength values however its inexpensive and easy to machine.

Applications – Fasteners, Bolts, Screws, Structural, Construction, General Engineering, Automotive

Medium Carbon –

Carbon content vary from 0.29% to 0.54% with 0.60 to 1.65% manganese content.

For example 1045 steel – it has good balance of ductility and strength with good wear resistance values.

Applications – Machine parts, Crankshaft, Couplings, Axles, General Engineering, Automotive
 

High Carbon –

Carbon content vary from 0.55% to 0.95% with up to 0.30 to 0.90% manganese content.

For example 1085 steel – it has high strength values.

Applications – Gears, Tools, General Engineering, Automotive

Carbon Steel is available in variety of forms including Bar, Plate, Sheet, and Tube

MTS offers variety of grades including 1008/1010, 1018, 1045, A36, A572, A500 and A513

Carbon Steel specifications –
 

• ASTM A1008/1010

• ASTM A1018

• ASTM A29

• ASTM A266

• ASTM A36

• ASTM A572 Grade 50, 60

• ASTM A500

• ASTM A513-5 DOM