Steel 1049 (Cm45)


Information about Steel 1049 (Cm45) that everyone should know

Material Group P - Steel
Sub-Grou Carbon Steel
Tensile Strengt 620-850 [N/mm^2]
Machinability 63%

Machining 1049 (Cm45) Steel: Navigating the Challenges of Higher Carbon Content

1049 (Cm45) steel, a medium-high carbon steel with 0.46-0.53% carbon content, presents a balance of strength, hardness, and machinability. However, its higher carbon content compared to other 10xx series steels introduces specific challenges that require careful attention during machining.

Understanding the Machinability of 1049 (Cm45) Steel:

  • Composition: The elevated carbon content in 1049 steel significantly increases its strength and hardness, making it suitable for applications requiring wear resistance and durability. However, this also translates to increased susceptibility to work hardening and potential difficulties in chip formation during machining.

  • Applications: 1049 (Cm45) steel is commonly used for components like gears, shafts, axles, and other parts subject to heavy loads and wear.

Overcoming Machinability Challenges:

  1. Tool Selection: Opt for cutting tools specifically designed for medium-to-high carbon steels or those tailored for hardened materials. Carbide tools with wear-resistant coatings, such as TiAlN or AlTiN, are highly recommended. Consider using cermet or ceramic inserts for improved performance in hardened conditions.

  2. Cutting Parameters: Adjust cutting speeds and feeds based on the specific heat treatment and hardness of the 1049 (Cm45) steel. Generally, moderate cutting speeds are recommended, with careful attention to feed rates and tool wear to prevent work hardening. For hardened 1049 steel, consider even lower cutting speeds and increased feed rates.

  3. Coolant/Lubricant: Utilize a suitable coolant or lubricant to reduce heat, friction, and chip welding during machining. High-pressure coolant application can be particularly beneficial for chip evacuation and tool cooling, especially at higher cutting speeds or when machining hardened material.

  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. Chip control is crucial for 1049 steel due to its higher carbon content.

Additional Tips for Machining 1049 (Cm45) Steel:

  • Workholding: Ensure secure and rigid workholding to minimize vibrations and maintain dimensional accuracy, especially important when machining harder 1049 steel.
  • Preheating: Consider preheating the material, particularly for thicker sections or heavy cuts, to reduce the risk of cracking and improve machinability, especially for hardened 1049 steel.
  • Sharp Cutting Edges: Maintain sharp cutting edges to minimize work hardening and ensure efficient chip formation.
  • Cutting Fluids: Use high-quality cutting fluids formulated for medium-to-high carbon steels to optimize tool life and machining performance.

By understanding the unique characteristics of 1049 (Cm45) 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-to-high carbon steels.


    Equivalent International Designations for Steel 1049 (Cm45)

    Standard Name
    SAE 1049
    WNR 1.1201
    DIN Cm45
    BS 080M46
    SS 1660
    ANFOR 3C45/XC42H1/XC48H1
    UNF F.1145.C45k-1/F.1147-C48k-1
    JS1 S50C

    Steel 1049 (Cm45)'s chemical composition

    Element Amount
    Manganese (Mn) .60-.90%
    Carbon (C) .46-.53%
    Sulfur (S) 0.05%
    Phosphorus (P) 0.04%

    Key Notes on the Chemical Composition of Steel 1049 (Cm45):

    • Medium-High Carbon Content:

      • The carbon range of 0.46-0.53% places 1049 steel firmly in the medium-high carbon category. This contributes significantly to its strength and hardness after heat treatment.
    • Manganese for Hardenability:

      • Manganese is present in a moderate range of 0.60-0.90%. It plays a role in improving the steel's hardenability, allowing it to achieve greater hardness and depth of hardening during heat treatment processes.
    • Controlled Impurities:

      • Sulfur and phosphorus levels are kept low (0.05% and 0.04% maximum, respectively) to ensure good ductility and toughness, minimizing the risk of cracking or brittleness.
    • Other Elements:

      • While not explicitly listed, it's important to note that other elements may be present in trace amounts, depending on the specific steelmaking process and intended application. These could include silicon, chromium, nickel, or molybdenum, each potentially influencing the steel's properties.

    Overall, the chemical composition of 1049 (Cm45) steel reflects its intended use in applications requiring a balance of strength, hardness, and toughness. The medium-high carbon content and moderate manganese level make it suitable for components subjected to wear and moderate impact, such as gears, shafts, and axles.


    Recommendations for cutting speed for Steel 1049 (Cm45)

    Application Vc (m/min) Vc (SFM)
    Turning 235-320 770-1050
    Milling 145-195 480-640
    Parting 115-155 380-510
    Grooving 130-180 430-590
    Drilling 95-125 310-410

    Cutting Speed Recommendations for 1049 (Cm45) Steel: Navigating Beyond the Ideal
    • While the provided cutting speed recommendations for 1049 (Cm45) steel offer a valuable starting point, optimizing your machining process in real-world scenarios requires a deeper understanding of the factors that can significantly influence cutting performance. Remember, the initial estimations are based on ideal conditions, which are not always achievable in a practical workshop setting.

      Factors Affecting Cutting Speed in 1049 (Cm45) Steel:

      1. Carbide Grade: Choosing the right carbide grade is paramount. While the "Cm" designation suggests improved machinability compared to hot-rolled 1049, the specific grade selection should consider the heat treatment condition, desired surface finish, and tool life expectations. Harder 1049 may necessitate tougher substrates and advanced wear-resistant coatings, possibly even requiring cermet or ceramic inserts.

      2. Tool and Workpiece Clamping: Secure and rigid clamping of both the cutting tool and the workpiece is fundamental. Any vibrations or movement can severely impact accuracy, surface finish, and tool life. Employ proper clamping techniques and utilize high-quality tooling systems to mitigate these risks, especially crucial when dealing with the increased hardness of 1049 (Cm45) steel.

      3. Raw Material Quality: Variations in raw material quality, including chemical composition, heat treatment, and microstructure, can significantly affect machinability. Source high-quality 1049 (Cm45) 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 1049 (Cm45) steel sections or encountering interrupted cuts.

      5. Material Hardness: The hardness of the 1049 (Cm45) steel workpiece directly influences cutting forces and tool wear. Verify that the material's hardness falls within the expected range for the chosen carbide grade and cutting parameters. Adjust cutting parameters, particularly reducing speed and increasing feed, to accommodate hardened 1049.

      6. Additional Factors:

        • Coolant/Lubricant Selection and Application: Effective cooling and lubrication are crucial 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 1049 (Cm45) steel. High-pressure coolant application can be particularly beneficial for chip evacuation and tool cooling, especially at higher cutting speeds or when machining hardened material.
        • Tool Geometry: Optimize rake and clearance angles, as well as chipbreaker design, to promote efficient chip formation and evacuation for 1049 (Cm45) steel. Consider geometries that minimize cutting forces and heat generation, particularly for harder material.
        • 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-high 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 1049 (Cm45) 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 1049 (Cm45) steel. Remember, the recommended cutting speeds serve as 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 1049 (Cm45) steel.


    Grade for Turning

    Grade Coating Apps Range 05 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
    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 1049

    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"