Is GB 20 the same as AISI 1020?

Same family: grade 20 (C 0.17–0.23%) overlaps the SAE 1020 window (0.18–0.23%). Certificates are normally cross-accepted; GB/T 699 also caps P and S at 0.035%, tighter than SAE defaults.

Grades · Carbon Steel · 20

20

Data verified

20 is China’s GB/T 699 quality carbon steel matching AISI 1020 and JIS S20C — the domestic Chinese designation buyers see on mill certificates for the world’s most common low-carbon engineering steel.

DIN1.0402 (C22)

AISI1020

JISS20C

CategoryCarbon Steel

Chemical composition

Element	Content (%)
C	0.17–0.23
Si	0.17–0.37
Mn	0.35–0.65
P	≤0.035
S	≤0.035
Cr	≤0.25

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

Properties

Tensile strength	≥410 MPa (GB/T 699 reference, normalized blank)
Yield strength	≥245 MPa (reference)
Density	7.85 g/cm³
Weldability	Excellent

Heat treatment

Used as-rolled or normalized; carburize for wear surfaces. Through-hardening is not practical.

Equivalent grades

Standard	Designation
din	1.0402 (C22)
aisi	1020
jis	S20C
gb	20 (GB/T 699)

Compare side by side: 20 vs SAE 1020

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

Applications & Processing

Applications: Low-load shafts, pins, bolts, carburized gears and bushings, welded structures, carbon seamless tube.

Processing: Excellent machinability and weldability; the standard Chinese mill offer wherever 1020 is specified.

FAQ

Is GB 20 the same as AISI 1020?: Same family: grade 20 (C 0.17–0.23%) overlaps the SAE 1020 window (0.18–0.23%). Certificates are normally cross-accepted; GB/T 699 also caps P and S at 0.035%, tighter than SAE defaults.

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Source: GB/T 699-2015 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.