Low-Carbon & Mild Steel
Low-carbon steel, often called mild steel in general fabrication, prioritizes ductility, formability, weldability and low cost.
Composition & metallurgy
A practical engineering range is about 0.05–0.25% carbon, although exact boundaries vary by source and standard. Manganese and controlled residual/alloy additions are used to achieve required properties.
Common grades and standards
SAE/AISI 1006, 1008, 1010, 1012, 1015, 1018, 1020; common product specifications include ASTM A36, A283, A500 and EN S235/S275 families depending on form and application.
Typical applications
Structural frames, HVAC and piping supports, tanks, ducts, automotive body sheet, formed parts, tubes, bolts, brackets, general fabrication and welded assemblies.
Engineering characteristics
Excellent weldability and cold-formability; relatively low hardness and wear resistance unless surface hardened or strengthened by processing.
Known manufacturers and producer regions
China — Baowu, HBIS, Shougang; India — Tata Steel, JSW, SAIL; Japan — Nippon Steel, JFE; South Korea — POSCO, Hyundai Steel; United States — Nucor, Cleveland-Cliffs; Europe — ArcelorMittal, Tata Steel Nederland, thyssenkrupp Steel.
Selection checklist
Confirm product form, design code, strength level, toughness/impact requirement, service temperature, corrosion exposure, weldability, forming route, heat-treatment condition, dimensional tolerance, inspection level and mill certification. Do not substitute a “similar” grade solely from a cross-reference table without checking the governing specification.
Element Folio engineering reference. Grade ranges are typical and may vary by standard. Verify the latest ASTM/ASME, EN, JIS, API or other governing specification and the mill’s current product data before procurement.
