1018 cold finished steel square bars are an excellent candidate for most processing techniques. 1018 cold finished steel square bars have a smooth dark gray oiled surface and accurate dimensions throughout. This type of steel contains approximately 0.18% carbon, making it a mild steel with good weldability and machinability. 1018 cold roll bars have a higher tensile and yield strength than hot rolled bars. 1018 is a low carbon steel with good case hardening qualities. It is designed for close tolerances and is commonly used for shafts, hinges, and dowels. Cold finishing helps achieve precise dimensions and uniformity in size throughout the bar’s length. It also reduces the likelihood of surface imperfections and provides improved dimensional accuracy.
Uses of a 1018 Cold Finished Square Bar
This type of steel bar is commonly used in various applications across industries due to its versatility, machinability, and affordability. Some common uses include:
- Machined components: The smooth surface and tight dimensional tolerances make it suitable for parts requiring precision machining, such as shafts, bushings, and couplings.
- Fasteners: 1018 square bars are used to produce various types of screws, bolts, and other fasteners for general-purpose applications.
- Construction and structural components: It can be utilized in the construction of frames, supports, and brackets, where strength and weldability are necessary.
- Automotive parts: Many automotive components, such as axles, shafts, and gears, can be made from 1018 Cold Finished square bars.
- Tools and fixtures: The steel’s good machinability makes it appropriate for creating hand tools, jigs, and fixtures.
It’s important to note that 1018 Cold Finished square bars are not suitable for applications requiring high strength or hardness, as they are primarily chosen for their ease of machining, moderate strength, and cost-effectiveness in less demanding applications. For more demanding applications, higher carbon or alloy steels might be preferred.