SPCE: High-Grade Cold-Rolled Low-Carbon Steel Sheet for Deep Drawing
SPCE, as defined in the JIS G 3141 standard, is a high-grade cold-rolled low-carbon steel sheet specifically engineered for deep drawing applications. With its ultra-low carbon content and controlled chemistry, SPCE offers superior formability, uniform elongation, and resistance to cracking during complex stamping processes. This makes it an ideal choice for automotive components, household appliances, and precision metal forming in manufacturing industries. This article explores its composition, properties, production methods, applications, and comparative advantages.
1. Core Chemical Composition (JIS G 3141 Standard)
| Element | Content Range | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.15% | Low content ensures excellent deep drawability and minimizes work hardening |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 0.60% | Improves hot workability and strengthens the steel without reducing ductility |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.050% | Controlled to prevent brittleness and ensure uniform deformation |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.035% | Minimized to reduce inclusions and enhance surface quality for drawing |
| Aluminum (Al) | ≥ 0.020% | Acts as a deoxidizer, promoting fine grain structure for better formability |
2. Key Mechanical Properties (Room Temperature)
- Tensile Strength (σb): 270-410 MPa (suitable for high-strain forming without fracture)
- Yield Strength (σ0.2): ≤ 240 MPa (low yield point for easy initial forming)
- Elongation (δ): ≥ 36% (superior ductility for deep drawing up to 2-3 drawing ratios)
- Hardness (HRB): ≤ 65 (Rockwell B; soft surface ideal for stamping and bending)
- r-Value (Lankford Coefficient): ≥ 1.6 (high anisotropy ratio for excellent earing resistance in drawing)
3. Manufacturing Process Characteristics
- Steelmaking: Basic oxygen furnace (BOF) or electric arc furnace (EAF) followed by vacuum degassing to achieve low impurity levels and consistent chemistry for formability.
- Hot Rolling: Rolled at 900-1100°C to produce hot-rolled coils (2.0-4.0 mm thick), then pickled to remove scale and ensure clean surfaces.
- Cold Rolling: Multi-pass reduction (up to 80% total) with annealing at 650-750°C to refine microstructure, improve elongation, and achieve final thicknesses of 0.3-3.5 mm.
- Annealing: Continuous annealing line (CAL) at 700-800°C with controlled atmosphere to fully recrystallize the structure and restore deep drawing properties.
- Surface Treatment: Skin-pass rolling (0.5-2% reduction) for shape control and light oil coating to prevent rust during storage and transport.
4. Typical Application Fields
Automotive Industry
Body panels, fuel tanks, exhaust mufflers, and wheel rims — high formability supports complex contours and crash energy absorption.
Household Appliances
Washing machine drums, refrigerator linings, and microwave interiors — smooth surfaces and deep drawability for seamless fabrication.
Electronics & Enclosures
Computer chassis, electrical boxes, and instrument housings — precise stamping for tight tolerances and aesthetic finishes.
General Manufacturing
Cans, tubes, and furniture components — cost-effective for high-volume production with excellent weldability.
5. Difference from Similar Grades (SPCE vs SPCC vs DC04)
| Grade | Elongation (δ) | Key Advantage | Suitable Scenario |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPCE (JIS) | ≥ 36% | Superior deep drawing formability with high r-value | Complex deep-drawn parts (e.g., automotive panels, appliance shells) |
| SPCC (JIS) | ≥ 28% | General-purpose with balanced strength and cost | Light forming and flat products (e.g., enclosures, simple stampings) |
| DC04 (EN) | ≥ 36% | Equivalent formability with European standard compliance | Export-oriented deep drawing in EU markets (e.g., machinery components) |
6. Selection & Usage Precautions
- Formability Limits: Optimal for drawing ratios up to 2.5; for deeper draws, consider SPCE with higher r-value or lubrication aids to prevent wrinkling or tearing.
- Surface Protection: Apply rust-preventive oil during storage; avoid prolonged exposure to humid environments without coating.
- Processing Recommendations: Use progressive die stamping with controlled blank holder pressure; anneal if heavy cold working causes strain hardening.
- Quality Assurance: Verify compliance with JIS G 3141 via mill certificates, including bend tests and Erichsen cupping tests for formability validation.
7. Get a Steel Quote
If you need customized SPCE cold-rolled steel sheets or coils, or require a detailed price quote, please contact our team. Our experts offer professional guidance and competitive pricing tailored to your specifications.