5160
Data verified5160 is the classic chromium spring steel of the Americas, standard for vehicle leaf springs and agricultural blades. Its 0.60% carbon with chromium gives deep hardening, high fatigue strength and forgiving heat treatment.
Chemical composition
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| C | 0.56–0.61 |
| Si | 0.15–0.35 |
| Mn | 0.75–1.00 |
| P | ≤0.035 |
| S | ≤0.040 |
| Cr | 0.70–0.90 |
Weight percent, per the governing standard ranges. Actual values per heat are on the mill certificate.
Properties
| Hardness (spring temper) | 38–48 HRC typical |
| Tensile strength | 1200–1500 MPa (Q&T spring temper, typ.) |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ |
Heat treatment
Anneal 800–830 °C; quench 840–870 °C oil; temper 400–520 °C for spring duty.
Equivalent grades
| Standard | Designation |
|---|---|
| din | 1.7102 (54SiCr6 is Si-type; 5160 is Cr-type, near) |
| aisi | 5160 |
| jis | SUP9 (near) |
| gb | 60CrMnA (near) |
Compare side by side: 5160 vs 6150 · 5160 vs 55Cr3 · 5160 vs 9255
Equivalents overlap in chemistry and use but are not always identical — see our equivalents guide before substituting in certified designs.
Applications & Processing
Applications: Leaf springs, coil springs, torsion bars, mower and cultivator blades, swords and heavy knives.
Processing: Forge and machine annealed; oil quenching avoids the cracking risk of water; shot peening boosts spring fatigue life.
FAQ
- 5160 vs 9260?
- 5160 hardens with chromium (0.70–0.90% Cr); 9260 uses 1.80–2.20% silicon instead, giving higher yield ratio and sag resistance. Both are mainstream spring steels; 5160 is more common in leaf springs, 9260 in coil springs.
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Ask for a quotationVisit NasteelSource: SAE J404 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.