SAE 1518 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.
SAE 1518
Carbon Steel
SAE 1518 is a carbon-manganese steel: low carbon like 1020 but with 1.10–1.40% manganese for higher as-rolled strength — a common seamless tube and bar grade in North and Latin American specs.
Standards: AISI 1518
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 | SAE 1518 | SAE 1020 |
|---|---|---|
| C | 0.15–0.21 | 0.18–0.23 |
| Mn | 1.10–1.40 | 0.30–0.60 |
| P | ≤0.040 | ≤0.040 |
| S | ≤0.050 | ≤0.050 |
Properties compared
| Property | SAE 1518 | SAE 1020 |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile strength | 430–520 MPa (typ.) | 380–450 MPa (hot rolled) |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ | 7.85 g/cm³ |
| Weldability | Good | 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: SAE 1518 · SAE 1020. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.