Steel 1040


General Information for Steel 1040

Material Group P - Steel
Sub-Group Low Carbon Steel
Tensile Strength 580-800 [N/mm^2]
Machinability 70%

Machining 1040 Steel: Balancing Strength and Machinability

1040 steel, a medium carbon steel with 0.37-0.44% carbon content, offers a balance of strength, hardness, and machinability. While it falls slightly above the "sweet spot" range for machinability (0.2%-0.3% carbon), it can be machined effectively with proper considerations.

Understanding the Machinability of 1040 Steel:

  • Composition: The moderate carbon content of 1040 steel provides good strength and wear resistance. However, it also makes the material susceptible to work hardening during machining, potentially leading to increased tool wear and difficulties in chip formation.
  • Applications: 1040 steel is commonly used for shafts, gears, axles, spindles, and other components requiring good strength, toughness, and wear properties.

Overcoming Machinability Challenges:

  1. Tool Selection: Choose cutting tools specifically designed for medium carbon steels or materials with similar properties. Carbide tools with appropriate coatings, such as TiN, TiCN, or AlTiN, can enhance tool life and cutting performance. For hardened 1040 steel, consider using tools designed for hardened materials.

  2. Cutting Parameters: Adjust cutting speeds and feeds based on the specific heat treatment and hardness of the 1040 steel. Generally, moderate cutting speeds are recommended, with careful attention to feed rates and tool wear to prevent work hardening.

  3. Coolant/Lubricant: Utilize a suitable coolant or lubricant to reduce heat, friction, and chip welding during machining. Water-based coolants or cutting oils can be effective depending on the specific operation and cutting conditions. High-pressure coolant application can be beneficial for chip evacuation and tool cooling.

  4. Chip Control: Employ chipbreakers or specialized tool geometries to promote chip breaking and prevent long, stringy chips that can interfere with the machining process and potentially damage the workpiece or tool.

Additional Tips for Machining 1040 Steel:

  • Workholding: Ensure secure and rigid workholding to minimize vibrations and maintain dimensional accuracy.
  • Preheating: Consider preheating the material, especially for thicker sections or heavy cuts, to reduce the risk of cracking and improve machinability, particularly for hardened 1040 steel.
  • Sharp Cutting Edges: Maintain sharp cutting edges to minimize work hardening and ensure efficient chip formation.
  • Cutting Fluids: Use high-quality cutting fluids designed for medium carbon steels to optimize tool life and machining performance.

By understanding the unique characteristics of 1040 steel and implementing these strategies, machinists can effectively manage its machining challenges and achieve desired results in terms of productivity, tool life, and surface finish.

For detailed carbide grade and cutting speed recommendations, refer to resources like the material supplier's datasheet or consult with a machining expert familiar with medium carbon steels.

International designations that are equivalent to Steel 1040

Standard Name
SAE 1040
WNR 1.0511
DIN C40
BS 080M40
SS 1311
ANFOR 1C40/AF60C40
UNI C40/1C40
UNF F.114.A

Steel 1040's chemical composition

Element Percentage
Manganese (Mn) .60-.90%
Carbon (C) .37-.44%
Sulfur (S) 0.05%
Phosphorus (P) 0.04%

Recommended cutting speeds for steel 1040

Application Vc (m/min) Vc (SFM)
Turning 260-355 850-1160
Milling 160-220 520-720
Parting 125-170 410-560
Grooving 145-200 480-660
Drilling 105-140 340-460

Cutting Speed Recommendations for 1040 Steel: Beyond the Ideal
  • While machining guidelines for 1040 steel offer a starting point, achieving optimal cutting speeds in real-world scenarios requires a nuanced understanding of the factors influencing cutting performance. The estimated speeds are based on idealized conditions, which may not always be achievable in practice.

    Factors Affecting Cutting Speed in 1040 Steel:

    1. Carbide Grade: Selecting the appropriate carbide grade is paramount. While general recommendations suggest carbide tools with TiN, TiCN, or AlTiN coatings for medium carbon steels, the specific grade should be tailored to the specific cutting conditions, desired surface finish, and tool life. Consider the heat treatment condition of the 1040 steel (whether it's annealed, normalized, or quenched and tempered) to choose the most suitable grade for your application. Harder 1040 may require tougher substrates and wear-resistant coatings.

    2. Tool and Workpiece Clamping: Secure and rigid clamping of both the cutting tool and the workpiece is fundamental. Vibrations and movement can negatively impact accuracy, surface finish, and tool life. Ensure proper clamping techniques and utilize high-quality tooling systems to minimize these risks, especially when dealing with the moderate to high hardness of 1040 steel.

    3. Raw Material Quality: Variations in raw material quality, including chemical composition, heat treatment, and microstructure, can affect machinability. Source high-quality 1040 steel from reputable suppliers and verify its properties to ensure consistent and predictable machining performance.

    4. Tool Overhang: A shorter tool overhang minimizes deflection and vibration, leading to improved cutting stability and surface finish. Strive for the shortest possible overhang without compromising tool reach and accessibility, especially when machining thicker 1040 steel sections or encountering interrupted cuts.

    5. Material Hardness: The hardness of the 1040 steel workpiece directly impacts cutting forces and tool wear. Verify that the material's hardness falls within the expected range for the chosen carbide grade and cutting parameters. If needed, consider preheating or adjusting cutting parameters to accommodate variations in hardness due to work hardening.

    6. Additional Factors:

      • Coolant/Lubricant Selection and Application: Effective cooling and lubrication are essential for heat dissipation, chip evacuation, and reducing friction. Choose the appropriate type (water-based or oil-based) and delivery method for your specific machining operation and the hardness of the 1040 steel. High-pressure coolant application can be particularly beneficial for chip evacuation and tool cooling, especially at higher cutting speeds.
      • Tool Geometry: Optimize rake and clearance angles, as well as chipbreaker design, to promote efficient chip formation and evacuation for 1040 steel. Consider geometries that minimize cutting forces and heat generation.
      • Machine Rigidity: A rigid machine tool setup minimizes vibrations and ensures consistent cutting conditions, leading to improved accuracy and surface finish. The machine's capabilities and limitations should be factored in when setting cutting parameters for this medium carbon steel.
      • Cutting Parameters: Feed rate and depth of cut, along with cutting speed, play a crucial role in achieving desired results. Carefully balance these parameters based on your specific machining goals, tool capabilities, and the properties of the 1040 steel.

    By meticulously evaluating these factors and adjusting cutting speeds accordingly, you can fine-tune your machining process to achieve superior results when working with 1040 steel. Remember, the recommended cutting speeds are a guideline, and real-world optimization requires a holistic approach that considers the entire machining ecosystem.

    Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended as a general guideline. It is crucial to consult with tooling experts, refer to manufacturer recommendations, and conduct thorough testing to determine the optimal cutting parameters for your specific application and the specific properties of your 1040 steel.



Grade for Turning

Grade Coating Apps Range 05 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
SHARP METAL
YP15T PVD & CVD P15
PM25 PVD TiAlN P20
NC25 PVD TiAlN P20
TN15 PVD TiAlN P20
TN20 PVD TiAlN P20
TIN25 PVD TiAlN P20
YP25T PVD & CVD P25
YP35T PVD & CVD P35
FM CARBIDE
FM2533 CVD P10 - P10
FM2543 CVD P20
FM324 PVD P20-P30
FM2553 CVD P30
CANELA
NC25 CVD P05 - P20
TN15 CVD P10 - P25
TN20 CVD P20 - P25
PM25 Uncoated P20 - P35
TIN25 PVD P20 - P35
PM40 Uncoated P35 - P45
TN30 CVD P40
TL20 PVD P20
KM15 Uncoated P15
ISCAR
IC807 (IC907) PVD P05 - P25
IC8150 CVD P10-P15
IC8250 CVD P15-P30
IC830 (IC328) PVD P25 - P45
Seco
TH1500 CVD P05 - P05
TP0501 CVD P05 - P20
TP1501 CVD P10 - P25
TP2501 CVD P15 - P35
CP500 PVD P15 - P40
CP600 PVD P25 - P45
TP3501 CVD P30 - P40
KENNAMETAL
KCP05B (KCP05) CVD P05 - P10
KCP10B (KCP10) CVD P10 - P20
KCU10 (KC5010) PVD P10-P20
KCP25B (KCP25) CVD P20 - P30
KCU25 (KC5025) PVD P20-P30
KCP30 CVD P30-P40
KCP40B (KCP40) CVD P35 - P45
SANDVIK
GC1115 PVD P05 - P20
GC4305 CVD P05 - P10
GC4415 (GC4315) CVD P10 - P15
GC4425 (GC4325) CVD P15 - P30
GC1125 PVD P20 - P30
GC4335 CVD P30-P40
TUNGALOY
T9205 (T9105) CVD P05 - P10
T9215 (T9115) CVD P10 - P20
AH725 PVD P15 - P30
T9225 (T9125) CVD P15 - P25
T9235 (T9135) CVD P30 - P40
WALTER
WPP10S (WPP10) CVD P05 - P20
WPP05S (WPP05) CVD P05 - P15
WPP20S (WPP20) CVD P10 - P30
WPP30S (WPP30) CVD P20 - P40
MITSUBISHI
UE6105 CVD P05 - P15
MC6015 (UE6010) CVD P10 - P20
VP15TF PVD P10 - P30
MC6025 (UE6020) CVD P15 - P20
MC6035 (UE6035) CVD P25 - P40
SUMITOMO
AC8015P (AC810P) CVD P05 - P15
AC8020P CVD P10 - P25
AC1030U PVD P10 - P30
AC8025P (AC820P) CVD P15 - P30
AC8035P (AC830P) CVD P25 - P45
KYOCERA
PR1005 PVD P15
PR930 PVD P15-P25
PR1115 PVD P15-P25
PR1535 PVD P25
PR1025 PVD P15-P35
PR1225 PVD P15-P35
PR1425 PVD P15-P35
PR1532 PVD P35
PR1625 PVD P35
Hitachi Tool
IP2000 PVD P25
IP3000 PVD P35
YG-1
1001 CVD TiCN P10
3010 CVD TiCN P20
3030 CVD TiCN P30
3030 PVD P35
801 PVD TiAlN P15-P30
3020 CVD TiCN P20-P30
KORLOY
PC8105 PVD P15
PC8110 PVD P15
PC8115 PVD P25
PC5300 PVD P25-P35
ZCC
YBG101 PVD P15
YBG102 PVD P15
YBG105 PVD P15
YB9320 PVD P25
YBG205 PVD P25
YBG202 PVD P25
YBG302 PVD P35

Grade for Parting Off

Grade Coating Apps Range 05 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
FM CARBIDE
FM125 PVD P20-P30
FM199 PVD P30
CANELA
PM25 Uncoated P25
PM40 Uncoated P40
SANDVIK
GC1125 PVD P05 - P20
GC1135 CVD P15 - P35
ISCAR
IC808 (IC908) PVD P05 - P30
IC830 (IC328) PVD P20-P40
SECO
TGP45 CVD P10 - P45
CP500 PVD P20 - P45
T350M CVD P25 - P45
CP600 PVD P30 - P50
KENNAMETAL
KCU10 PVD P05 - P20
KCU25 PVD P20 - P30
WALTER
WKP13S CVD P05 - P20
WSM23S PVD P10 - P30
WSM33S (WSM33) PVD P20-P40
WSM43S PVD P30 - P45
SUMITOMO
AC1030U (AC530U) PVD P10 - P25
AC520U PVD P15 - P30
AC830P CVD P20 - P40
TUNGALOY
AH725 PVD P15 - P30
AH7025 PVD P20 - P30
GH130 PVD P25 - P40
MITSUBISHI
VP10RT PVD P05 - P10
VP20RT PVD P10 - P30
VP15TF PVD P10 - P30


Grade for Grooving

Grade Coating Apps Range 05 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
FM CARBIDE
FM90 DLC P20
FM20 Uncoated P10
CANELA
PM25 Uncoated P25
PM40 Uncoated P40
SANDVIK
GC1125 PVD P05 - P35
ISCAR
IC807 (IC907) PVD P05 - P10
IC808 (IC908) PVD P10 - P25
IC830 (IC328) PVD P20 - P40
KENNAMETAL
KC5010 PVD P10 - P20
KCU10 PVD P10 - P20
KC5025 PVD P20 - P30
KCU25 PVD P20 - P30
WALTER
WKP13S CVD P05 - P20
WSM23S PVD P10 - P30
WSM33S (WSM33) PVD P20-P40
WSM43S PVD P30 - P45
SECO
CP500 PVD P10 - P25
CP600 PVD P20 - P40
TUNGALOY
T9225 (T9125) CVD P15 - P25
AH725 PVD P15 - P30
AH7025 PVD P20 - P40
GH130 PVD P25 - P40
MITSUBISHI
VP10RT PVD P05 - P10
VP20RT PVD P10 - P25
MY5015 CVD P10 - P20
VP30RT PVD P20 - P40
SUMITOMO
AC1030U (AC530U) PVD P10 - P25
AC520U PVD P15 - P30
AC830P CVD P20 - P40

Grade for Milling (Indexable)

Grade Coating Apps Range 05 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
FM CARBIDE
FM125 PVD P15 - P35
CANELA
PM25 Uncoated P05
PM40 Uncoated P05
TL10 PVD & CVD P05
TL20 PVD & CVD P05
TL40 PVD & CVD P05
TIN21 PVD & CVD P05
TIN25 PVD & CVD P05
SANDVIK
GC4330 CVD P10 - P25
GC4340 CVD P25 - P40
ISCAR
IC808 (IC908) PVD P05 - P15
IC830 (IC928) PVD P10 - P40
KENNAMETAL
KC510M PVD P05 - P10
KC522M PVD P10 - P25
KCPK30 CVD P25 - P40
KC725M PVD P30 - P40
WALTER
WKP25S (WKP25) CVD P15 - P35
WKP35G CVD P25 - P45
WSM45X CVD P35 - P45
WSP45S (WSP45S) PVD P35 - P45
SECO
MP1501 CVD P05 - P20
F40M PVD P05 - P50
MP2501 CVD P15 - P45
TUNGALOY
AH120 PVD P15 - P25
AH725 PVD P15 - P30
AH3225 PVD P20 - P35
T3225 CVD P20 - P35
AH130 PVD P25 - P40
AH3135 PVD P30 - P40
MITSUBISHI
MP6120 PVD P10 - P30
MP6130 PVD P20 - P40
VP30RT PVD P25 - P45
SUMITOMO
ACP2000 CVD P05 - P25
XCU2500 CVD P05 - P30
ACU2500 PVD P10 - P40
ACP3000 PVD P20 - P45
SHARP METAL
DP20M PVD TiAlN P15-P25
DP30M PVD TiAlN P30-P35
DP40M PVD P40
KYOCERA
PR830 PVD P20
PR1225 PVD P20
PR1230 PVD P20-P30
PR1525 PVD P20-P340
HITACHI TOOL
CY9020 PVD P20
JP4120 PVD P20
CY150 PVD P20
JS4045 PVD P30
CY250 PVD P30
CY250V PVD P30
CY25 PVD P30
HC844 PVD P30
JS4060 PVD P40
PTH30E PVD P40
PTH40H PVD P40
JX1060 PVD P40
YG-1
602 PVD TiAlN P15-P30
PRAMET
M8310 PVD P20
8215 PVD P20
2003 PVD P20
M8325 PVD P30
M8326 PVD P30
M8330 PVD P30
M8340 PVD P40
M8345 PVD P40
M8346 PVD P40
KORLOY
PC3600 PVD P20-P30
PC3500 PVD P30
PC3700 PVD P30
PC5400 PVD P40
ZCC
YBG102 PVD P20
YBG202 PVD P20
YBG252 PVD P20
YBG302 PVD P30


Recommended Insert Cutting Edge Geometry for Steel 1040

Honing Siz 0.05-0.08 mm / 0.002-0.003"
Rake Angl 11° -13°
Land Angl Positive
Land Widt 0.20-0.30 mm / 0.008-0.012"