C45 R/E (+N)
C45 / 1.0503 – Non-alloy structural steel: Properties, specifications, and applications
C45 (digital code 1.0503 according to EN standards) is a non-alloy quality structural steel. Thanks to its excellent balance of strength, hardness, and machinability, this grade is widely used in industry and mechanical engineering. You can purchase this steel, ready for fast delivery, directly from our wholesale warehouse.
1. Differences between C45R and C45E & production methods
While the basic composition is identical, the market offers different modifications and preparation methods for this steel:
- C45E (1.0503): Standard steel intended for general quenching and tempering.
- C45R (1.1201): A modification with a strictly controlled sulfur content (e.g., 0.020–0.040%), ensuring better and more stable machinability on CNC machines.
- Rolled vs. Forged: Rolled steel is more economical for standard parts, while forged steel has a denser microstructure without internal porosity, allowing it to withstand higher dynamic loads.
- Peeled/Turned surface (+PE / +SH): The oxidized layer is removed. The workpiece is immediately ready for precise machining.
2. Chemical composition (according to EN 10277-2:2008)
The balance of chemical elements ensures optimal steel properties. The total sum of Cr, Mo, and Ni must not exceed 0.63%.
| C (%) | Si (%) | Mn (%) | P (%) | S (%) | Cr (%) | Ni (%) | Mo (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.43 – 0.50 | Max. 0.40 | 0.50 – 0.80 | Max. 0.045 | Max. 0.045 | Max. 0.40 | Max. 0.40 | Max. 0.10 |
3. Mechanical properties and Hardness
| Condition | Thickness (mm) | Tensile strength (Rm), MPa | Yield strength (Re / Rp0.2), MPa | Elongation (A), % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normalized (+N) | Up to 16 mm | 620 | 340 | Min. 14 |
| Normalized (+N) | 16 – 100 mm | 580 | 275 | Min. 16 |
| Cold drawn (+C) | 5 – 10 mm | 750 – 1050 | Min. 565 | Min. 5 |
| Cold drawn (+C) | 10 – 16 mm | 710 – 1030 | Min. 500 | Min. 6 |
Brinell Hardness (HBW):
- Soft annealed (+A): ~207 HBW
- Normalized (+N): 172 – 242 HBW
- Treated to improve shearability (+S): ~255 HBW
4. Applications and International equivalents
Due to its medium carbon content, this steel is weldable (with precautions) and is excellent for surface hardening. C45 is primarily used for moderately loaded parts: shafts, axles, gears, cylinders, flanges, and fasteners.
International equivalents: USA (1042, 1045, Gr.1045), Germany (C45, C45E), Japan (S45C), UK (080M46, 50HS), Poland / Russia (45).
5. Possible alternatives
- C35 / C50 / C60: Depending on the required balance of hardness and ductility.
Need C45 or alternative steel for your production?
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