1015 vs SAE 1020
These two grades are listed as equivalents of each other: their chemistry windows overlap and they serve the same applications. They are not always identical — check the differences below before substituting, especially in certified designs.
1015
Carbon Steel
1015 is a low carbon carburizing-grade steel for small parts needing a hard wear surface over a ductile core. It bridges the gap between the very soft 1008/1010 grades and the weldable workhorse 1020.
Standards: DIN 1.0401 (C15) · AISI 1015 · JIS S15C · GB 15
SAE 1020
Carbon Steel
SAE 1020 is a low-carbon steel for general engineering: easily machined, formed and welded, and the default material for low-load shafts, pins and seamless tube in carbon grade.
Standards: DIN 1.0402 (C22) · AISI 1020 · JIS S20C · GB 20
Chemical composition compared (%)
| Element | 1015 | SAE 1020 |
|---|---|---|
| C | 0.13–0.18 | 0.18–0.23 |
| Mn | 0.30–0.60 | 0.30–0.60 |
| P | ≤0.040 | ≤0.040 |
| S | ≤0.050 | ≤0.050 |
Properties compared
| Property | 1015 | SAE 1020 |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile strength | 340–420 MPa (hot rolled, typ.) | 380–450 MPa (hot rolled) |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ | 7.85 g/cm³ |
| Weldability | Excellent | Excellent |
| Yield strength | — | ≥245 MPa |
Sourcing either grade?
Nasteel stocks both families from Shenzhen with EN 10204 3.1 mill certificates by heat number.
Ask for a quotationSee full data sheets: 1015 · SAE 1020. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.