Metric Carbon Steel Hex Bar 12L14
Metric Carbon Steel Hex Bar 12L14 is a favorite among machinists for its exceptional machinability and ease of use. It combines the strength of carbon steel with the added benefit of improved machinability, making it ideal for high-volume production runs. Let’s delve into what makes this hexagonal bar stock so special:
- Metric Dimensions: This bar conforms to the metric system, with dimensions specified in millimeters. This ensures easy integration into projects using metric measurements.
- Carbon Steel: The core material is steel containing a specific amount of carbon, offering a good balance of strength and affordability.
- 12L14: This designation indicates a specific type of carbon steel with a key addition: lead. A small amount of lead is added to the steel to improve its machinability. Lead acts as a lubricant during machining, resulting in faster cutting speeds, cleaner finishes, and extended tool life for cutting bits.
The combination of a hexagonal shape and exceptional machinability makes Metric Carbon Steel Hex Bar 12L14 a dream to work with. Here’s why machinists love it:
- Fast Machining: The lead additive significantly reduces friction during machining, allowing for faster cutting speeds and higher production rates.
- Clean Finishes: The improved machinability results in smooth, high-quality surface finishes on machined parts, minimizing the need for additional finishing work.
- Reduced Tool Wear: Lead’s lubricating properties extend the lifespan of cutting tools, reducing overall production costs.
- Easy Workability: Beyond machining, this hex bar can be drilled, punched, tapped, and threaded with ease, making it suitable for various fabrication techniques.
Due to these advantages, Metric Carbon Steel Hex Bar 12L14 finds application in a wide variety of machined parts, including:
- Bushings and bearings
- Gears and sprockets
- Screws and fasteners
- High-speed machined components
- Hydraulic and pneumatic parts
While 12L14 is not ideal for welding, its machinability and ease of use make it a top choice for machinists seeking speed, efficiency, and high-quality results in their projects.
Metric Carbon Steel Hex Bar 12L14 Specifications
ASTM A576
Other Metric Hex Bar Options
Metric Carbon Steel Hex Bar S235 / 1018
Metric Carbon Steel Hex Bar 1045