C45E vs S355J2+N: 52% composition overlap. Moderate differences, generally not direct substitutes.
C45E vs S355J2+N
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
C45E
1.1191
Unalloyed special steel with controlled chemistry (E grade) and 0.42–0.50% carbon. Tighter P and S limits than standard C45 for improved consistency. The most widely used medium-carbon steel for quenching and tempering. Good balance of strength (620–850 MPa QT) and toughness. Through-hardening up to ø60mm. Surface hardening by induction to HRC 58. Used for shafts, gears, bolts, connecting rods, crankshafts, and general machine parts.
S355J2+N
1.0577
Normalized structural steel with 355 MPa minimum yield strength and J2 impact toughness (27J at -20°C). The normalized delivery condition (+N) ensures refined grain structure and uniform properties throughout the cross-section. Required for EN 1090 execution classes EXC3/EXC4 in structural steelwork. The standard choice for bridges, high-rise frames, crane runways, and wind tower sections where both strength and guaranteed low-temperature toughness are needed. Weldable with CEV typically <0.45.
| C45E | S355J2+N | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | 1.1191 | 1.0577 |
| Category | Carbon Steel | Carbon Steel |
| Standard | EN 10083-2 | EN 10025-2 |
Chemical composition (wt%)
| Element | C45E | S355J2+N | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0.42–0.5% | ≤ 0.2% | No overlap |
| Si | ≤ 0.4% | ≤ 0.55% | OK |
| Mn | 0.5–0.8% | ≤ 1.6% | OK |
| P | ≤ 0.025% | ≤ 0.03% | OK |
Mechanical properties
| Property | C45E | S355J2+N | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| tensile_strength | 700–850 | 470–630 | MPa |
| yield_strength | ≥ 490 | ≥ 355 | MPa |
| elongation | ≥ 14 | ≥ 22 | % |
Compatibility Assessment
C45E and S355J2+N 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 C45E the same as S355J2+N?
C45E and S355J2+N have a 52% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace C45E with S355J2+N?
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 C45E and S355J2+N?
The main differences are in the following elements: C. C45E is a Carbon Steel grade, while S355J2+N is a Carbon Steel grade.
View full data for each material:
Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.