High Precision Carbon Steel CNC Machining Services

Carbon steel is an alloy primarily composed of iron and carbon, with carbon content typically ranging from 0.04% to 2.5%. This composition allows us to categorize carbon steel into three types: low-carbon steel (usually less than 0.3% carbon), medium-carbon steel (about 0.3% to 0.6% carbon), and high-carbon steel (0.6% to 2.5% carbon).

Strengths of CNC Machining Carbon Steel

Durability and Strength: Higher carbon content results in stronger parts, which means your components will be able to withstand more stress and wear.

Cost-Effectiveness: Carbon steel, especially low and medium-carbon steel, is generally more cost-effective compared to other metals, such as stainless steel.

Minimal Thermal Expansion: Carbon steel has lower thermal expansion, ensuring dimensional stability and tight tolerances in varying temperatures, ideal for precision parts.

Applications of Machined Carbon Steel Parts

Each of these carbon steel types is selected in CNC machining for their unique properties that match the demands of specific parts and applications.

Low-Carbon Steel (ASTM A36)

  • Ideal for parts that require ease of machining, welding, and forming.
  • Brackets, frames, mounting plates, and structural components.

Medium-Carbon Steel (AISI 1045)

  • Suitable for parts that need a balance of strength and ductility.
  • Gears, shafts, studs, and axles.

High-Strength Steel (ASTM A572 Gr 50)

  • Perfect for parts demanding higher strength and good machinability.
  • Structural beams, bridge plates, and heavy equipment parts.

Carbon Steel Machining Properties

This table serves as a guideline for engineers, machinists, and designers to select the appropriate carbon steel grade for you specific machining needs and to anticipate how the material will behave during and after machining.

Carbon Steel GradeMachinabilityStrengthToughnessKey Physical ParametersHeat Treatment Effects
AISI 1018ExcellentLowHighLow carbon content, excellent formabilityImproves with annealing, not typically hardened
AISI 1045GoodMediumMediumMedium carbon content, good balance of strength and machinabilityCan be heat treated to improve hardness and strength
AISI 1144GoodHighLowHigh carbon content, stressproof gradeStress relief improves machinability; can be hardened
AISI 12L14Very HighLowHighLow carbon content with added lead for free machiningNot suitable for heat treatment due to lead content
ASTM A36ModerateMediumHighLow carbon content, commonly used in structural applicationsNot typically hardened; best suited for structural applications

Carbon Steel CNC Machinig Process by Machining Quote

For CNC machining of carbon steel, several specific CNC technologies can be effectively employed to handle the unique properties of different carbon steel grades. Here are some of the common CNC machining processes used for carbon steel:

CNC Turning

Ideal for producing cylindrical parts, CNC turning rotates the carbon steel workpiece against a single-point cutting tool. This process excels in creating axles, rollers, and other rotational parts with precision.

CNC Milling

This method employs rotary cutters to remove material from the workpiece in a highly controlled manner. CNC milling is versatile for crafting complex geometries and features such as pockets, channels, and intricate surface contours.

CNC Drilling

A process designed to create precise holes with exact depths and diameters, CNC drilling is essential for components that require robust assembly with bolts or rivets, such as frames and structural supports.

CNC Grinding

Utilizing an abrasive wheel that grinds away the material, CNC grinding is crucial for achieving ultra-fine finishes and tight tolerances, particularly on high-carbon steel parts that must withstand high wear conditions.

What is the Best Carbon Steel for CNC Machining?

When considering CNC machining, AISI 1050 and AISI 1045 are both excellent choices, each bringing distinct advantages to the machining process:

AISI 1050

AISI 1050: This is a high-carbon steel known for its high strength and hardness after heat treatment, making it suitable for components that must maintain sharp edges or withstand significant wear.

Your Benefit: By choosing AISI 1050, you’ll benefit from its ability to be hardened, leading to machined parts that are exceptionally wear-resistant. This is ideal for creating durable components like high-strength clamps, springs, and cutting tools that perform reliably in demanding environments.

AISI 1045

AISI 1045: This medium-carbon steel offers an excellent balance between machinability and mechanical properties. It’s easier to machine than higher carbon steels and provides good strength and impact resistance.

Your Benefit: Opting for AISI 1045 means you’ll have parts that are not only strong and durable but also more cost-effective to produce. It’s great for manufacturing gears, shafts, and other mechanical parts where you need strength but also desire the efficiency of machining.

Surface Treatment for CNC Carbon Steel Parts

For CNC carbon steel parts, We have 50 surface finishing services, several surface treatments can enhance their performance and aesthetics. Here are some common treatments and what they can offer you:

Powder Coating
Provides a durable and protective layer that resists scratches and corrosion. You get parts with a uniform and attractive finish that can come in a variety of colors.
Galvanizing
Offers excellent corrosion resistance. Your parts will have a longer lifespan, especially in outdoor or harsh environments.
Anodizing
Though more common for aluminum, anodizing can also be applied to certain steel grades, increasing surface hardness and providing a protective layer.
Black Oxide
Gives steel parts a matte black appearance and provides minimal corrosion resistance. It’s ideal for parts where you need a non-reflective surface.
Chrome Plating
Adds a thin layer of chrome to the part, which improves hardness and corrosion resistance. You’ll have parts that not only look sleek but are also more durable.