Carbon is found in all types of steel, and mild steel is a specific category of carbon steel. When carbon is the primary alloying element, the steel is classified as carbon steel. Typically, carbon steel contains between 0.05% and 1.7% carbon by weight. The amount of carbon present helps determine if the steel is categorized as mild, medium, or high-carbon steel.
Although both mild steel and carbon steel serve similar purposes, they have several key differences that make them suitable for different applications.
In this article, we will explore mild steel and carbon steel in detail, focusing on their carbon content, mechanical properties, and the processes used in manufacturing and finishing.
Whether you are a metal fabricator, engineer, or simply interested in learning more about these types of steel, this guide will provide the information you need to make an informed choice.
Carbon steel typically contains between 0.05% and 1.70% carbon by weight. Increasing the carbon content can enhance the strength of the steel, making it a cost-effective way to improve its performance. However, higher carbon levels can also lead to increased brittleness and decreased ductility, so it’s important to find the right balance.
High Carbon Steel is preferred for specific applications that require enhanced strength and durability. Common uses include rail steels, pre-stressed concrete, wire rope, tire reinforcement, knives, saw blades, gear wheels, and chains. Other elemental impurities, such as sulfur, can also give unique characteristics to the steel.
Mild steel is a type of carbon steel characterized by its low carbon content, making it the mildest form of carbon steel. In addition to carbon, it may contain small amounts of manganese, silicon, and trace phosphorus. These elements help protect the iron structure in the metal by preventing dislocations within the iron crystals. The carbon content directly influences the strength of the steel; higher carbon levels lead to stronger steel.
Mild steel is the most widely used type of steel, accounting for about 85% of all steel products in the United States. Its popularity stems from its desirable properties, including strength, ductility, and affordability. Mild steel is commonly used in manufacturing wires, steel sheets, and various building materials.
Carbon Steel | Mild Steel | |
Carbon content | Medium to Ultra-High | Low |
Strength | High | Moderate |
Ductility | Low to Moderate | High |
Cost | More expensive | Cost-effective |
There are several types of carbon steel, each with distinct properties and applications:
Commonly referred to as “mild steel,” low carbon steel has a lower carbon content, making it more ductile and easier to shape, form, and weld. This flexibility makes mild steel a favored choice in construction and manufacturing.
With a carbon content of 0.3% to 0.6%, medium carbon steel is stronger and harder than low carbon steel but is also more brittle. It is often used in applications that require a balance of strength and ductility, such as machinery components, automotive parts, and building frames.
High carbon steel contains 0.6% to 1.5% carbon, known for its exceptional strength and hardness. However, it is more brittle than medium carbon steel. This type of steel is ideal for applications that require high strength, such as knife blades, hand tools, and springs.
Advantages
Strength: Carbon steel is stronger than mild steel due to its higher carbon content, making it suitable for applications that require significant strength.
Durability: It is less prone to rusting compared to mild steel, enhancing its durability and longevity in various applications.
Industrial Use: Carbon steel is commonly utilized in industrial and construction applications, including machinery, equipment, automotive, and aerospace manufacturing.
Malleability: Mild steel is more malleable and ductile, allowing it to be easily shaped into different forms.
Construction Applications: It is widely used in the construction industry for structural frames, facades, and roofing because of its favorable strength-to-weight ratio.
Manufacturing Flexibility: Mild steel is frequently employed in processes like forging, welding, and machining, making it versatile for many projects.
Disadvantages
Cost: Carbon steel is generally more expensive than mild steel due to its higher carbon content.
Welding Challenges: Welding carbon steel can be more complex than welding mild steel, which may limit its use in applications that require extensive welding.
Click one of our contacts below to chat on WhatsApp
Get Your Free Quote Today!