Carbon Steel 12L14

Carbon Steel 12L14 is a type of carbon steel with improved machinability. It is also known as "Free Machining Steel” and the fastest machining bar product.

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Stacked machined metal flanges on blue tray

G12144
1.0718

540 MPa

Ultimate Tensile Strength
415 MPa

Yield Strength
190 GPa

Young's Modulus(Elasticity)
10 %

Elongation at Break

At a Glance

Material Type
Metal
Material Name
Carbon Steel 12L14
Alternative Names
G12144 | 1.0718
Process Compatibility
CNC Milling, CNC Turning

Properties Table of Carbon Steel 12L14

Properties

Ultimate Tensile Strength 540 MPa(78,000 psi)
Yield Strength 415 MPa(60,000 psi)
Young's Modulus(Elasticity) 190 GPa(28 x 10^6 psi)
Elongation at Break 10%
Physical Properties
Corrosion Resistance Limited corrosion resistance, susceptible to rust
Magnetism Generally magnetic
UV Resistance Limited UV resistance
Weldability Good weldability, but precautions needed due to lead content
Thermal Properties
Maximum Service Temperature Around 250°C(482°F)
Thermal Expansion Coefficient 11.7 x 10^-6/°C(20-100°C)
Thermal Conductivity 43 W/(m·K)
Electrical Properties
Electrical Resistivity 2.15 x 10^-7 ohm-meter
ESD Safety Carbon Steel 12L14 is a conductor, so ESD safety is generally good

Applications of Carbon Steel 12L14

Fasteners (screws, bolts, nuts)
Automotive components (bushings, spacers, fittings)
Shafts and couplings
Electronic components (connectors, fasteners)
Instrumentation parts (screws, gears, housings)
Firearms components (non-critical areas)
Agricultural machinery components
Fittings and flanges

Advantages of Carbon Steel 12L14

Excellent machinability
Designed for high-speed machining
Contains lead for improved chip formation and lubrication
Promotes precision and consistency in dimensions
Cost-effective in terms of machining time and tool life
Provides a smooth and aesthetically pleasing surface finish
Weldable with proper precautions
Suitable for cold forming

Raw Stock

CNC Machined

Finished Parts

Carbon Steel 12L14 — Machining Notes

Carbon Steel 12L14 in CN
is Carbon Steel 12L14?

Carbon Steel 12L14 in CNC Machining

Carbon Steel 12L14 is a type of carbon steel with improved machinability. It is also known as “Free Machining Steel” and the fastest machining bar product.

12L14 is used in high-volume part machining. It belongs to the ’12xx’ category, indicating re-sulfurized and re-phosphorized steels. The “12” in the name indicates that it contains approximately 0.12% carbon, and the “L14” indicates the addition of lead for enhanced machinability. We offer 12L14 bars in rounds, hexagons, and squares. Variations like 12L14+Te (with added tellurium) and 12L14+Se (with added selenium) are rare and require high volumes for production. These variants can boost parts production by at least 25% compared to conventional leaded steel.

It is flexible and easy to work with, as it can be bent, riveted, or crimped. However, its enhanced ductility and machinability make it slightly weaker than similar carbon steel alloys. This type of steel is commonly used in high-speed screw machine products and other machinery requiring rapid operations. Heat treatment is not recommended for 12L14 because of its low carbon and machining additives. Welding is possible, but it is also not generally recommended due to the presence of lead, which can cause issues with weld quality. Welding may also release toxic fumes from the lead content.

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What is Carbon Steel 12L14?

Carbon Steel 12L14 is a type of carbon steel that contains lead as an additive. The addition of lead makes the steel more machinable and improves its cutting ability. 12L14 has a machinability rating of 190, achieved by distributing lead particles throughout the steel.

12L14 steel is heat-resistant and has limited corrosion resistance. This steel remains strong at high temperatures and is weldable. Its low carbon content makes welding easy without extra treatment, but its lead content requires precautions.

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FAQ

What is the difference between C12L14 and 12L14?

There is no significant difference between C12L14 and 12L14. Both terms refer to the same type of steel. The "C" prefix is often used in the AISI/SAE naming convention to indicate that the steel is a cold-drawn variety.

What is the difference between 12L14 and 1018 steel?

12L14 contains a small amount of lead. This addition enhances machinability but may reduce weldability. On the other hand, 1018 steel does not contain lead and is generally easier to weld.

What is the difference between 12L14 steel and 1215 steel?

1215 steel contains higher sulfur content than 12L14, contributing to its excellent machinability. However, the higher sulfur content may result in lower ductility than 12L14.