1038

Data verified

1038 is a medium carbon steel widely used in North American cold drawn and hot rolled bar for shafts and bolts. It sits between 1035 and 1045 and is often specified where 1045 hardenability is not needed.

DINC35/C40 (near)

AISI1038

JISS35C/S40C (near)

CategoryCarbon Steel

Chemical composition

Element	Content (%)
C	0.35–0.42
Mn	0.60–0.90
P	≤0.040
S	≤0.050

Weight percent, per the governing standard ranges. Actual values per heat are on the mill certificate.

Properties

Tensile strength	540–640 MPa (normalized, typ.)
Density	7.85 g/cm³

Heat treatment

Normalize 850–880 °C; quench 845 °C water/oil; temper to duty.

Equivalent grades

Standard	Designation
din	C35/C40 (near)
aisi	1038
jis	S35C/S40C (near)
gb	38 (near)

Compare side by side: 1038 vs 1040 · 1038 vs 1045

Equivalents overlap in chemistry and use but are not always identical — see our equivalents guide before substituting in certified designs.

Applications & Processing

Applications: Shafts, bolts and studs, hydraulic rods, forged fittings.

Processing: Good machinability; weld with preheat 150–250 °C.

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Source: SAE J403 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.