Carbon Steels

Engineering Studies – P3 Braking Systems – Materials and Manufacturing

This topic investigates the definition, structure and applications of carbon steel. The effect that steel phases have on the properties are outlined.

Key Concepts

• Carbon steel definition
• Carbon steel structure
• Carbon steel applications

Discussion Questions

1. What is the normal range of carbon in plain carbon steels?
2. As the carbon content increases from 0 to 4.3%, how does steels;
   • tensile strength change?
   • ductility change?
3. What range of carbon steels are heat treatable?
4. Describe these steel phases:
   • Pearlite
   • Ferrite
   • Cementite