Carbon & alloy steel · EN 10083-2
C45 (1045) normalized
Also known as: C45, 1.0503, 1045 normalized
Overview
Medium-carbon steel (EN C45 / AISI 1045 family) in normalized condition — balanced strength and toughness for shafts and general machine parts.
Typical supply: Bars, forgings, plates
Mechanical Properties
Thermal Properties
For temperature derating, open Temperature Properties.
Physical Properties
Typical supply: Bars, forgings, plates
Density typically ~7800–7850 kg/m³. Bar and forging forms dominate machine design.
Applications
- Shafts and axles (moderate duty)
- Gears (induction hardened)
- Pins, keys, and couplings
- General machine components
Advantages
- Higher strength and hardenability than mild structural steel
- Responds well to quench and temper for tailored properties
- Good fatigue performance when heat-treated correctly
Limitations
- Often needs heat treatment to reach published strengths
- Weldability may require preheat / post-weld heat treatment
- Corrosion resistance similar to carbon steel unless coated
Standards
- EN 10083-2 — Quenched and tempered steels — non-alloy
- ASTM A29 — General requirements for steel bars
Equivalent Materials
Electrical Properties
Chemical Composition
| Element | Min wt% | Max wt% | Typical wt% |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0.42 | 0.5 | 0.45 |
| Si | — | 0.4 | — |
| Mn | 0.5 | 0.8 | 0.65 |
| P | — | 0.045 | — |
| S | — | 0.045 | — |
| Cr | — | 0.4 | — |
| Ni | — | 0.4 | — |
| Mo | — | 0.1 | — |
Typical / limit values for reference selection only — verify against mill certs for certified work.
Machinability
Good machinability when normalized; chip control better than QT condition.
Cost
Low-to-moderate alloy cost; widely stocked.
Corrosion
Corrodes like carbon steel; oil or plating for service parts.
- Oil-lubricated machineryfair
- Outdoor uncoatedpoor
For allowance / life screening, open Corrosion Allowance.