alloy steel

Alloy steel is a type of steel that has specific properties enhanced by adding elements other than carbon. These alloying elements, such as nickel, manganese, chromium, and molybdenum, modify the steel's microstructure and properties, leading to characteristics not achievable in plain carbon steel.1

There are thousands of steel grades, but they can be broadly classified by their chemical composition: carbon steels, low-alloy steels (up to 8% alloying elements), and high-alloy steels (over 8%). Carbon steels account for about 90% of global production and are categorized by their carbon content.2

Alloying elements improve strength, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. For instance, adding nickel or manganese can create high-strength steel with good weldability, while elements like titanium or vanadium form fine crystals that further restrict dislocation movement, increasing strength. Alloying also improves hardenability, allowing steel to be hardened at lower cooling rates.31