[TheForge] A36 vs 1018

Thu Jun 12 20:57:01 2003

Bob -

Yes, I had to settle for 1018 cold rolled.
I've never worked any cold rolled material before.
Is there anything different in forging characteristics compared to the same
type of steel in hot rolled?
I've heard sometimes people have problems forge-welding cold rolled.
Anything special I need to know?

Thanks.

Bob

-----Original Message-----
From: [email protected]
[mailto:[email protected]]On Behalf Of [email protected]
Sent: Thursday, June 12, 2003 8:57 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: [TheForge] A36 vs 1018

Bob,

I think you are right...1018 with a hot finish is made.

I think she is right...most times when someone wants 1018 they want the better
finish and the closer dimensional accuracy. Most times when someone wants A36
it is going to be used for welding/fabricating and finish and dimension isn't
an issue.

You apparently want the lower carbon content of 1018 for it's easier
forgability and more accurate content...not splitting while forging etc.

My steel supplier does not have 1018 hot rolled on the rack. They can get it
but the only one that may want it is someone (like you) who wants the above
characteristics. Most (suppliers) would not understand your interest in 1018
over A36.

I understand what you want but personally I have never had a problem forging
off the rack A36 hot rolled. I do hear now and then about "files" and other
impurities rolled into A36 but this has not been my experience.

You are probably going to pay more for 1018 hot rolled. At least more than the
1018 cold rolled just because it will be a special order.

Good luck Bob.

Bob Schade