C22 Carbon Steel: Non-Alloy Quality Steels (EN 10083 Series)
C22 carbon steel (EN 1.0501), part of the non-alloy quality steels in the EN 10083 series, is a medium-carbon, non-alloyed structural steel known for its good strength, toughness, and machinability. With a carbon content of 0.17-0.24%, it offers a balanced combination of hardness and ductility after heat treatment, making it ideal for quenched and tempered components in mechanical engineering, automotive, and general machinery applications. This article covers its chemical composition, mechanical properties, manufacturing processes, typical uses, comparisons with similar grades, and selection guidelines.
1. Core Chemical Composition (EN 10083-2 Standard)
| Element | Content Range | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.17 – 0.24% | Provides hardenability and strength; medium level ensures good wear resistance without excessive brittleness |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.40% | Acts as a deoxidizer; improves elasticity and high-temperature strength |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.40 – 0.70% | Enhances tensile strength and toughness; aids in deoxidation and sulfur neutralization |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045% | Controlled impurity; higher levels can cause brittleness |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.045% | Restricted to improve ductility; low content prevents hot shortness |
| Chromium (Cr) | ≤ 0.40% | Residual element; slight enhancement of hardenability if present |
| Others (e.g., Cu, Ni) | ≤ 0.30% each | Residuals; controlled to avoid adverse effects on weldability |
2. Key Mechanical Properties (Normalized Condition)
- Tensile Strength (Rm): 540 – 700 MPa (EN 10083-2 standard; varies with heat treatment)
- Yield Strength (ReH): ≥ 355 MPa (for diameters ≤ 100 mm; supports moderate load-bearing)
- Elongation (A5): ≥ 18% (adequate ductility for forming and machining)
- Hardness (HB): 170 – 210 (as-rolled; up to 220 after normalization)
- Impact Toughness (KV): ≥ 27 J at 20°C (maintains integrity in impact loading)
3. Manufacturing Process Characteristics
- Smelting: Basic oxygen furnace (BOF) or electric arc furnace (EAF) with ladle refining to achieve low impurity levels and precise carbon control.
- Hot Rolling: Rolled at 850-1100°C into bars, billets, or plates; finished with controlled cooling to refine grain structure and avoid cracking.
- Heat Treatment: Normalization at 850-900°C followed by air cooling to relieve internal stresses; quenching and tempering (quench at 820-860°C in oil/water, temper at 500-650°C) for enhanced strength.
- Cold Drawing: For precision bars (≤ 50 mm), multi-pass drawing with annealing to achieve tight tolerances and improved surface finish.
- Surface Treatment: Pickling in acid solutions to remove scale; optional phosphating or coating for corrosion protection during storage.
4. Typical Application Fields
Mechanical Engineering
Shafts, gears, pins, and axles in machinery — benefits from good machinability and response to heat treatment for wear-resistant parts.
Automotive Industry
Crankshafts, connecting rods, and suspension components — provides balanced strength and cost for high-volume production.
General Machinery
Bolts, fasteners, and structural elements in agricultural and construction equipment — suitable for moderate stress environments.
Tooling & Components
Base materials for simple tools, fixtures, and jigs — easy to machine and heat treat for custom fabrication.
5. Difference from Similar Grades (C22 vs C45 vs C60)
| Grade | Carbon Content | Key Advantage | Suitable Scenario |
|---|---|---|---|
| C22 (1.0501) | 0.17-0.24% | Good balance of strength and ductility; excellent machinability | Medium-duty components requiring moderate hardness |
| C45 (1.0503) | 0.42-0.50% | Higher strength and wear resistance after quenching | Heavy-load gears and shafts in demanding applications |
| C60 (1.0601) | 0.57-0.65% | Superior hardenability for high surface hardness | Wear parts like cams and dies in high-wear environments |
6. Selection & Usage Precautions
- Heat Treatment Essential: Always normalize or quench-and-temper as per EN 10083-2 to achieve desired properties; improper treatment leads to cracking or reduced toughness.
- Machining Guidelines: Use carbide tools at moderate speeds; coolant recommended to prevent built-up edge; pre-hardening not required for most operations.
- Weldability Limits: Preheat to 150-200°C for thicknesses >20 mm; use low-hydrogen electrodes (e.g., E7018); post-weld stress relief to avoid distortion.
- Corrosion Consideration: Susceptible to rust in moist environments — apply protective coatings (e.g., zinc plating) or paints for outdoor use.
- Quality Verification: Obtain material certificates confirming compliance with EN 10083-2; check for ultrasonic testing on bars to ensure internal soundness.
7. Get a Carbon Steel Quote
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