ASTM A572 Grade 50 vs C15E: 52% composition overlap. Moderate differences, generally not direct substitutes.
ASTM A572 Grade 50 vs C15E
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
ASTM A572 Grade 50
The most widely used structural steel grade in the United States. 345 MPa (50 ksi) yield strength HSLA steel. Has largely replaced A36 for structural applications due to higher strength-to-weight ratio. Used for building frames, bridges, heavy equipment, and general structural fabrication.
C15E
1.1141
Low-carbon unalloyed case hardening steel — 0.12-0.18% C. Between C10E (softer core) and C22E (harder core) in the case-hardening range. Good balance of surface hardness (HRC 58-62) and core toughness after carburizing. Modern designation for Ck15. Used for small gears, pins, bushings, levers, and carburized parts where moderate core strength is acceptable. Also used for cold forming and deep drawing.
| ASTM A572 Grade 50 | C15E | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | — | 1.1141 |
| Category | Carbon Steel | Carbon Steel |
| Standard | ASTM A572 | EN 10084 |
Chemical composition (wt%)
| Element | ASTM A572 Grade 50 | C15E | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0–0.23% | 0.12–0.18% | OK |
| Si | 0–0.4% | 0–0.4% | OK |
| Mn | 0–1.35% | 0.3–0.6% | OK |
| P | 0–0.04% | 0–0.025% | OK |
Mechanical properties
| Property | ASTM A572 Grade 50 | C15E | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| tensile_strength | ≥ 450 | 350–490 | MPa |
| yield_strength | ≥ 345 | 210–260 | MPa |
| elongation | ≥ 18 | 25–32 | % |
Compatibility Assessment
ASTM A572 Grade 50 and C15E have moderate differences (52% overlap). They are generally not direct substitutes. Consider the specific requirements of your application.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ASTM A572 Grade 50 the same as C15E?
ASTM A572 Grade 50 and C15E have a 52% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace ASTM A572 Grade 50 with C15E?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (52% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between ASTM A572 Grade 50 and C15E?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. ASTM A572 Grade 50 is a Carbon Steel grade, while C15E is a Carbon Steel grade.
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