Maraging Steel
Maraging steels achieve very high strength through age hardening of a low-carbon iron-nickel martensitic matrix rather than through high carbon.
Composition & metallurgy
Very low carbon with high nickel, commonly around 18% in classic grades, plus cobalt, molybdenum, titanium and/or aluminium depending on grade generation.
Common grades and standards
18Ni maraging 200, 250, 300 and 350 strength classes, plus cobalt-free and specialized variants.
Applications
Aerospace tooling, rocket and missile hardware, high-performance shafts, die-casting tooling, precision components, fencing blades and additive-manufactured high-strength parts.
Engineering characteristics
Exceptional strength with good toughness and dimensional stability after aging. Cost is high because of alloy content and processing; welding and heat treatment require disciplined procedures.
Known manufacturers and producer regions
Specialty producers include Böhler/voestalpine, Carpenter Technology, Aubert & Duval and other aerospace/specialty alloy mills; availability is more limited than commodity alloy steel.
Before specifying or purchasing
Confirm governing standard and edition, product form and dimensions, delivery/heat-treatment condition, mechanical properties, toughness, welding requirements, corrosion or wear environment, inspection/NDT, traceability and mill test certification. Manufacturer capability varies by plant and product line.
Element Folio engineering reference. Product names may be trademarks of their respective owners; manufacturer examples are indicative and should be verified against current mill catalogues.
