In the fields of metal processing and materials science, 4140 steel and 4130 steel are two widely used alloy steels. Despite both being low alloy steels, they have significant differences in chemical composition, mechanical properties, heat treatment processes, and application fields. This article explores these differences in detail.
What is 4140 Steel?
4140 steel, also known as AISI 4140, is a low alloy steel containing chromium, molybdenum, and manganese. It is known for its toughness, high fatigue strength, wear resistance, and impact resistance, making it popular in various industries.
Unique Properties of 4140 Steel
- High Strength: Excellent yield and tensile strength.
- Mechanical Properties: Good hardenability, toughness, and wear resistance.
- Heat Treatment Adaptability: Responsive to quenching and tempering.
- Wide Range of Applications: Used in construction machinery, automotive, oil extraction, and chemical equipment.
- Processability: Suitable for forging, rolling, and welding.
What is 4130 Steel?
AISI 4130 is a medium carbon low alloy steel containing chromium and molybdenum. It has a higher carbon content than 4140, improving its weldability at the expense of strength. It is commonly supplied in round bar form and is easy to process after proper heat treatment.
Unique Properties of 4130 Steel
- High Strength and Stiffness: Achieves excellent mechanical properties after heat treatment.
- Good Weldability: Can be welded by common methods.
- Better Toughness: Maintains shape and properties under impact and vibration.
- Ease of Processing: Suitable for cutting, stamping, forging, and surface treatment.
- Corrosion Resistance: Requires additional protective measures for higher corrosion resistance.
Comparative Analysis of 4140 and 4130 Steel
Chemical Composition
| Element | 4130 Steel (%) | 4140 Steel (%) | Comparative Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.28~0.33 | 0.38~0.43 | 4140 has higher carbon content, better strength but harder to weld |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.40~0.60 | 0.75~1.00 | 4140 has higher manganese, enhancing strength |
| Chromium (Cr) | 0.80~1.10 | 0.80~1.10 | Similar, improves corrosion resistance and strength |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 0.15~0.25 | 0.15~0.25 | Similar, important for resisting chloride corrosion |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.15~0.35 | 0.15~0.35 | Similar, mainly for deoxidation |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤0.035 | ≤0.035 | Similar, control harmful elements |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤0.040 | ≤0.040 | Similar, control harmful elements |
| Nickel (Ni) | ≤0.30 | – | Not present in 4140 |
Mechanical Properties
-
4140 Steel:
- Tensile Strength: ~95,000 psi
- Toughness: Excellent for high-stress applications
- Ductility: High, easy to form
- Hardenability: Excellent for quenching and tempering
- Chemical Resistance: Balanced composition with good resistance
-
4130 Steel:
- Tensile Strength: ~135,000 psi when heat treated
- Yield Strength: ~75,000 psi
- Hardness: 225-295 BHN
- Ductility: High elongation (~15%)
- Fatigue Strength: ~40 ksi
Application Scenarios
-
4140 Steel:
- Aerospace: Aircraft components, landing gear
- Automotive: Axles, crankshafts, gears
- Oil and Gas: High-stress and high-temperature components
- Construction: Structural components, heavy equipment
- Machinery: Gears, shafts
-
4130 Steel:
- Aerospace: Engine parts, landing gear
- Automotive: Chassis, suspension systems, drive shafts
- Petroleum and Petrochemical: Pipes, valves, high-pressure components
- Military: Weapon system components
- Heavy Machinery: Structural and load-bearing parts
Heat Treatments for 4140 and 4130 Steel
4140 Steel
- Annealing: Softens metal, improves workability (840-870°C)
- Normalizing: Increases strength and hardness (860-900°C)
- Quenching: Rapid cooling to form martensite (840-870°C)
- Tempering: Reduces brittleness, adjusts hardness (200-650°C)
4130 Steel
- Annealing: Prepares for machining (860°C)
- Normalizing: Conditions metal before further heat treatment (890-910°C)
- Quenching: Achieves high strength and hardness (850-900°C)
- Tempering: Reduces stress, adjusts mechanical properties (varied temperatures)
Cost Comparison of 4140 and 4130 Steel
- 4130 Steel: Slightly less expensive than 4140
- Cost Difference: Typically within 5%
- Factors: Raw material costs, manufacturing processes
Choosing the Right CNC Machining Parts Factory
Selecting the right CNC machining parts factory involves considering their expertise in both climb and conventional milling, especially in multi-axis CNC machining. A factory skilled in high precision CNC machining ensures superior surface finish and dimensional accuracy. For optimal results, choose a factory that excels in aluminum CNC machining, CNC plastic machining, and CNC titanium machining.
Summary
Understanding the differences between 4140 steel and 4130 steel is crucial for selecting the appropriate material for specific applications. 4140 steel offers higher strength and hardenability, making it ideal for high-stress applications, while 4130 steel provides better weldability and toughness. When choosing between these two steels, consider the specific requirements of your project, including strength, weldability, and cost. Partnering with a proficient CNC machining parts factory that specializes in multi-axis CNC machining and high precision CNC machining ensures the best results for your project.
Disclaimer
The content appearing on this webpage is for informational purposes only. LongSheng makes no representation or warranty of any kind, be it expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or validity of the information. Any performance parameters, geometric tolerances, specific design features, quality and types of materials, or processes should not be inferred to represent what will be delivered by third-party suppliers or manufacturers through LongSheng’s network. Buyers seeking quotes for parts are responsible for defining the specific requirements for those parts. Please contact to our for more information.
Team LongSheng
This article was written by various LongSheng contributors. LongSheng is a leading resource on manufacturing with CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, 3D printing, injection molding,metal stamping and more.
FAQs
Which steel is more suitable for high strength applications, 4140 or 4130?
4140 steel is more suitable due to its higher strength and hardness.
What is the welding performance of 4130 steel?
4130 steel has good weldability but requires proper preheating and post-weld heat treatment to reduce stress and prevent cracks.
What are the differences in the processing properties of 4140 steel and 4130 steel?
4140 steel has higher strength and hardenability, while 4130 steel is easier to weld and process but may require additional steps during quenching.
