1018 vs SAE 1020
These two grades are listed as equivalents of each other: their chemistry windows overlap and they serve the same applications. They are not always identical — check the differences below before substituting, especially in certified designs.
1018
Carbon Steel
1018 is one of the most commonly stocked cold drawn bars in North America: a low carbon steel with higher manganese than 1020 for a slightly stronger, more consistent machined finish. It carburizes well and welds without special precautions.
Standards: DIN C15/C22 (near) · AISI 1018 · JIS S15C/S20C (near)
SAE 1020
Carbon Steel
SAE 1020 is a low-carbon steel for general engineering: easily machined, formed and welded, and the default material for low-load shafts, pins and seamless tube in carbon grade.
Standards: DIN 1.0402 (C22) · AISI 1020 · JIS S20C · GB 20
Chemical composition compared (%)
| Element | 1018 | SAE 1020 |
|---|---|---|
| C | 0.15–0.20 | 0.18–0.23 |
| Mn | 0.60–0.90 | 0.30–0.60 |
| P | ≤0.040 | ≤0.040 |
| S | ≤0.050 | ≤0.050 |
Properties compared
| Property | 1018 | SAE 1020 |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile strength | 400–470 MPa (hot rolled, typ.) | 380–450 MPa (hot rolled) |
| Yield strength | ≥255 MPa (typ.) | ≥245 MPa |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ | 7.85 g/cm³ |
| Weldability | Excellent | Excellent |
Sourcing either grade?
Nasteel stocks both families from Shenzhen with EN 10204 3.1 mill certificates by heat number.
Ask for a quotationSee full data sheets: 1018 · SAE 1020. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.