If you’re in the firm and durable steel market, it’s hard to go wrong with AR400 steel. This type of steel is callous, with high tensile strength and excellent abrasion resistance. But what exactly is AR400 steel? And how does it compare to other types of steel? In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about AR400 steel, from its composition and mechanical properties to its uses and heat treatment.
AR400 Steel Composition
AR400 steel is an abrasion-resistant steel with high levels of carbon and manganese. The carbon content provides strength and hardness, while the manganese improves ductility and toughness. In addition to these elements, AR400 steel may also contain small amounts of other alloys, such as nickel, chromium, or boron. These alloying elements can further improve the steel’s mechanical or physical properties.
| Grade | C | Si | Mn | P | S | Cr | Ni | Mo | B |
| 400 AR | 0.25 | 0.7 | 1.70 | 0.025 | 0.015 | 1.50 | 0.70 | 0.5 | 0.005 |
AR400 Steel Mechanical Properties
AR400 steel is known for its exceptional mechanical properties, particularly its high tensile strength and hardness. Its tensile strength ranges from 155,000 to 180,000 psi, while its Brinell hardness ranges from 360 to 440, depending on the thickness of the steel. AR400 steel is also highly abrasion-resistant, making it ideal for applications that require resistance to wear and tear.
| Grade | Yield Strength MPa |
Tensile Strength MPa |
Elongation A |
Impact Strength Charpy V 20 J |
| 400 AR | 1000 | 1250 | 10 | -40°C |
AR400 Steel Physical Properties
In addition to its mechanical properties, AR400 steel also has some beneficial physical properties. It has a density of 7.85 grams per cubic centimetre and a low thermal expansion coefficient, which means it expands very little when exposed to heat. AR400 steel, with a moderate machinability rating, is also relatively easy to work with.
AR400 Steel Uses
AR400 steel is prevalent in many industries that require abrasion-resistant materials, such as construction, mining, and agriculture. It’s often used to make equipment and parts subject to frequent wear and tear, such as bulldozer blades, rock crushers, and drilling equipment. AR400 steel can also be used for structural applications, such as building frames, due to its strength and toughness.
AR400 Steel Corrosion Resistance
While AR400 steel is highly abrasion-resistant, it does not have excellent corrosion resistance. Without proper care, the steel can rust and corrode over time, especially if exposed to moisture or chemicals. Some manufacturers add a protective coating to their AR400 steel products or use stainless steel in highly corrosive environments to combat this.
AR400 Steel Heat Treatment
AR400 steel can be heat-treated to improve its mechanical properties even further. Tempering, for example, can help reduce the steel’s brittleness and improve its toughness. Quenching and tempering can increase the steel’s hardness, while annealing can improve its ductility and machinability. Trained professionals should only do heat treatment, as improper treatment can lead to cracks or other defects in the steel.
AR400 Steel Machining and Welding
AR400 steel can be machined and welded but requires some special considerations. Due to its high hardness, the steel is difficult to cut and shape and requires high-speed tools and cutting fluids. Welding AR400 steel also requires some expertise, as the steel is prone to cracking and warping if not soldered properly. Preheating the steel, using low-hydrogen electrodes, and controlling the welding temperature can all help prevent these issues.
Conclusion
AR400 steel is a highly versatile and durable material that’s used in a wide range of industries. Its high tensile strength, hardness, and abrasion resistance make it ideal for stable and longevity applications. While it has some corrosion resistance limitations, proper care and maintenance can mitigate these issues. Overall, AR400 steel is a solid choice for strong and dependable steel.
Meet Heer, a dynamic and driven writer learning tricks of her trade in the metal industry. With a background in Digital Marketing, Heer brings a unique perspective to her writing, sharing valuable insights. Apart from blogging she like reading and hiking.
