SAE 52100 Steel (UNS G52100)
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SAE 52100 (AISI/SAE 52100, ASTM A295, ISO 683-17, DIN 17230):
SAE 52100 is a high-carbon chromium steel that is widely used in the production of bearings, tools, and other applications that require high hardness and wear resistance. This alloy is known for its excellent surface hardness and toughness, making it particularly suitable for high-performance and high-load applications. SAE 52100 steel is typically used in the manufacturing of rolling element bearings (such as ball bearings, roller bearings), as well as shafts, gears, and other high-stress mechanical components.
Features:
- High Hardness: SAE 52100 steel offers exceptional hardness, especially after heat treatment, making it suitable for high-wear applications.
- Excellent Wear Resistance: This steel provides outstanding wear resistance, which is why it's widely used in bearings and other components that endure friction.
- High Fatigue Strength: Due to its high tensile strength and hardness, SAE 52100 can withstand the stresses of repeated loading and is less likely to fail under fatigue.
- Good Toughness: Despite its high hardness, the steel retains good toughness, making it resistant to brittle fracture under shock loading.
- Good Hardening Response: SAE 52100 responds well to heat treatment processes like quenching and tempering, resulting in a fine microstructure that enhances its properties.
- Corrosion Resistance: While not as corrosion-resistant as stainless steels, the presence of chromium gives SAE 52100 moderate resistance to oxidation, particularly in dry or low-moisture environments.
Specifications:
- AISI/SAE 52100: Standard designation for this alloy, widely recognized in both the U.S. and international markets.
- ASTM A295: Standard specification for high-carbon chromium bearing steels, which applies to SAE 52100.
- ISO 683-17: International standard for bearing steels, including SAE 52100, which governs the material properties and testing methods.
- DIN 17230: German standard for bearing steel, including SAE 52100 specifications.
- UNS G52100: Unified Numbering System (UNS) designation for SAE 52100.
Composition of SAE 52100 Steel:
| Element | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.98 – 1.10% |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.25 – 0.45% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 1.30 – 1.60% |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.15 – 0.35% |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.025% Max |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.025% Max |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
Physical Properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 1450°C (2642°F) |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 200-300 HB (annealed) |
| Tensile Strength | 800-1200 MPa (116,000-174,000 psi) |
| Yield Strength | 600-1000 MPa (87,000-145,000 psi) |
| Elongation | 12-15% |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 210 GPa |
| Thermal Conductivity | 46 W/m·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion | 11.5 × 10⁻⁶ /°C |