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1.4021 vs. X20Cr13: Key Differences

What is 1.4021 material ASTM equivalent?

The 1.4021 (X20Cr13) material is primarily equivalent to AISI 420 (or 420A/420S37), a martensitic stainless steel. It is a 12-14% chromium steel that provides good corrosion resistance and high strength, commonly used for fasteners, shafts, and cutlery.
 

What material is X20Cr13?

X20Cr13 (material number 1.4021) is a martensitic stainless steel, commonly known as AlSI 420. It possesses high hardness, good wear resistance, and moderate corrosion resistance, with a carbon content of approximately 0.16%-0.25% and a chromium content of approximately 12%-14%. It is magnetic, heat-treatable, and commonly used in the manufacture of tableware, pump shafts, valves, and fasteners.

 

X20Cr13  Chemical Composition (According to EN 10088-3)

Element Symbol Content (%)
Carbon C 0.16 – 0.25
Chromium Cr 12.00 – 14.00
Manganese Mn ≤ 1.50
Silicon Si ≤ 1.00
Phosphorus P ≤ 0.040
Sulfur S ≤ 0.030 (standard) / 0.015 (for better finish)
Iron Fe Balance

 

X20Cr13  Mechanical Properties (at Room Temperature)

Values vary based on the heat treatment condition (Quenched and Tempered - QT).

Condition Yield Strength (Rp0.2) Tensile Strength (Rm) Elongation (A5) Impact Strength (ISO-V) Hardness (HB)
Annealed (+A) - max. 760 MPa - - max. 230
QT 700 ≥ 500 MPa 700 – 850 MPa ≥ 13% ≥ 25 J 215 – 260
QT 800 ≥ 600 MPa 800 – 950 MPa ≥ 12% ≥ 20 J 245 – 300

 

X20Cr13  Physical Properties (at 20°C)

Property Value Unit
Density 7.73

g/cm3

Modulus of Elasticity 215

GPa

Thermal Conductivity 30

W/(m⋅K)

Specific Heat Capacity 460

J/(kg⋅K)

Electrical Resistivity 0.60

Ω⋅mm2/m

Magnetic Properties Ferromagnetic Yes

 

X20Cr13 stainless steel Heat Treatment and Processing

Process Temperature Range Cooling Method
Soft Annealing 745°C – 825°C Furnace (Slow cooling)
Hardening 950°C – 1050°C Oil or Air
Tempering (QT 700) 650°C – 750°C Air
Tempering (QT 800) 600°C – 700°C Air
Hot Forming (Forging) 1100°C – 800°C Slow cooling
 

What are the main differences between 1.4021 and 420 stainless steel?

1.4021 (X20Cr13) and AISI 420 are essentially equivalent martensitic stainless steels, often used interchangeably, featuring ~13% chromium for moderate corrosion resistance and high hardenability. The primary distinction is that "1.4021" refers to the European EN standard, while "420" is the AISI/ASTM designation, with 420 often covering a wider range of carbon variants (e.g., 420A, 420B, 420C).

 

What are the common applications of 1.4021 and X20Cr13?

1.4021 (X20Cr13) is a martensitic, heat-treatable stainless steel, commonly known as a general-purpose grade with good corrosion resistance in mild environments and high strength, often utilized in cutlery, surgical instruments, pump shafts, and automotive parts. It is frequently utilized in mechanical engineering for valves, fasteners, and gears.

1.4021 Stainless Steel Bar Supplier

We have in-depth cooperation with major steel mills such as TISCO, Baosteel, and Tsingshan, ensuring reliable raw material sourcing. We typically maintain large stock of commonly used martensitic stainless steels such as 1.4021, shortening delivery times, and provide complete MTC (Mill Test Certificates) conforming to EN 10204 3.1 standards.

Third-Party Testing: We support on-site testing by international testing organizations such as SGS, BV, and TUV (spectral analysis, hardness testing, ultrasonic testing, etc.).

1.4021 Stainless Steel Bar Supplier

 

 

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