1060 vs 5160 for a spring?

1060 is cheaper and fine for lightly loaded springs in thin sections. 5160 adds chromium for deeper hardening and better fatigue life in thicker, heavily loaded springs.

Grades · Carbon Steel · 1060

1060

Data verified

1060 is a high carbon steel for springs, wear parts and tools of moderate duty. It hardens reliably in small sections and is one of the most common spring steels in general engineering.

Hardness35–45 HRC typical

DIN1.0601 (C60)

AISI1060

JISS58C (near)

CategoryCarbon Steel

Chemical composition

Element	Content (%)
C	0.55–0.65
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	680–820 MPa (normalized, typ.)
Hardness (Q&T)	35–45 HRC typical
Density	7.85 g/cm³

Heat treatment

Normalize 840–860 °C; quench 820–850 °C oil; temper 400–550 °C.

Equivalent grades

Standard	Designation
din	1.0601 (C60)
aisi	1060
jis	S58C (near)
gb	60

Compare side by side: 1060 vs C60 · 1060 vs 1065

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

Applications & Processing

Applications: Coil and leaf springs, washers, blades, hand tools, high-strength wire.

Processing: Machine annealed; limited weldability — high preheat and post-weld temper required.

FAQ

1060 vs 5160 for a spring?: 1060 is cheaper and fine for lightly loaded springs in thin sections. 5160 adds chromium for deeper hardening and better fatigue life in thicker, heavily loaded springs.

Need 1060 from stock?

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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.