TrueKatana
★ On Sale Up To 40% Off Today ★

Knowledge Base

“Knowledge is a weapon. I intend to be formidably armed.” ― Terry Goodkind

Why is it called 5160 steel?


The name "5160 steel" refers to a specific type of steel alloy that is commonly used in various applications, including the manufacturing of springs and blades. The name "5160" represents the numerical designation assigned to this particular steel alloy according to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) steel grade system.


The SAE system is a classification system used to designate various types of steels based on their chemical composition and mechanical properties. Each steel grade is assigned a four-digit number, with the first digit indicating the main alloying element and the following digits providing additional information about the steel's composition.


In the case of 5160 steel, the number "5" indicates that it is a chromium-molybdenum alloy steel. The digits "16" signify that it contains approximately 0.60-0.70% carbon by weight, which is in the high-carbon steel range. The last digit "0" does not carry any particular significance and is often omitted in discussions about the steel.


5160 steel is known for its toughness, durability, and excellent resilience, making it a popular choice for applications that require high-stress resistance, such as springs and blades. It can be heat treated to achieve a combination of hardness and flexibility, making it suitable for applications where both strength and resilience are crucial.


It's important to note that the specific chemical composition and properties of 5160 steel can vary slightly between different manufacturers or sources. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the material specifications or technical data sheets provided by the supplier to understand the precise composition and properties of the specific 5160 steel being used.