3Cr13 quenched and tempered round steel is a widely used martensitic stainless steel that offers a unique balance of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance. After proper heat treatment, it becomes a highly reliable material for manufacturing blades, shafts, mechanical components, and wear-resistant parts. One of the key features of 3Cr13 round steel is its ability to maintain stable hardness without cracking during demanding applications.
Chemical Composition of 3Cr13 Round Steel
The properties of 3Cr13 are closely related to its chemical composition. Chromium plays the main role in corrosion resistance, while carbon enhances hardness and strength.
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| C | 0.26–0.35 |
| Si | ≤1.00 |
| Mn | ≤1.00 |
| Cr | 12.00–14.00 |
| P | ≤0.035 |
| S | ≤0.030 |
This composition provides a balance between strength and corrosion resistance, making the steel suitable for both industrial and semi-stainless applications.
Mechanical Properties
After quenching and tempering, 3Cr13 round steel exhibits reliable mechanical performance. It can reach stable hardness without causing brittleness or cracking, which is essential for heavy-duty applications.
| Property | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Hardness (HRC) | 28–36 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 750–950 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | ≥ 450 |
| Elongation (%) | ≥ 15 |
| Impact Toughness (J/cm²) | ≥ 35 |
The moderate hardness combined with sufficient toughness ensures the material can withstand mechanical stress while maintaining structural integrity.
Heat Treatment Characteristics
3Cr13 round steel must undergo proper quenching and tempering processes to achieve the best properties. Quenching is typically performed at 980–1050°C followed by oil cooling. Tempering is usually done at 200–300°C to relieve internal stress and stabilize hardness. This treatment results in improved machinability and long-term performance in industrial environments.
Advantages of 3Cr13 Quenched and Tempered Round Steel
-
Stable Hardness: It maintains hardness in the HRC 28–36 range without risk of sudden fracture.
-
Balanced Properties: Good toughness while keeping corrosion resistance at a functional level.
-
Wear Resistance: Suitable for cutting tools and wear-prone components.
-
Machinability: Easier to process compared with higher alloy stainless steels.
Applications
3Cr13 round steel is widely used across industries, especially where moderate corrosion resistance and reliable hardness are required. Typical applications include:
-
Knives and Blades: Kitchen knives, industrial cutters.
-
Mechanical Parts: Shafts, bearings, gears.
-
Engineering Components: Valve parts, pump components.
-
Wear-Resistant Parts: Tools for moderate working conditions.
3Cr13 quenched and tempered round steel is a versatile material with reliable mechanical properties. Its stable hardness, combined with resistance to cracking, makes it a dependable choice for industries requiring durable and moderately corrosion-resistant components. With proper heat treatment, it offers excellent service life and performance in demanding applications.
