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AISI 1215 Free-Machining Steel Material
When production speed and surface finish are the top priorities, AISI 1215 is the undisputed champion of carbon steels. Known as "screw stock," this resulfurized and rephosphorized steel is engineered specifically for maximum machinability. It allows for cutting speeds significantly higher than standard mild steels like 1018, resulting in drastically reduced cycle times. At JUCHENG, we utilize 1215 primarily in our Swiss Turning and Automatic Lathe departments to produce high volumes of bushings, couplings, and inserts. It is the most cost-effective solution for non-structural parts that require precise dimensions and a smooth, polished look.
1215 Alloy steel

JUCHENG's 1215 Machining Capabilities

We optimize our workflow to leverage the speed of 1215 for mass production:
  • Lights-Out Manufacturing: 1215 produces small, broken chips that do not clog machines. This allows our CNC lathes to run unattended 24/7 with bar feeders, maximizing throughput.
  • Superior Surface Quality: The chemical composition of 1215 inhibits the formation of built-up edges (BUE) on tools, allowing us to achieve smooth, bright finishes directly from the machine without secondary polishing.
  • Complex Turning: We can machine intricate threads, knurls, and deep holes rapidly, making it ideal for complex fittings.
  • Plating Readiness: We offer post-machining Zinc Plating (Clear/Yellow/Black) or Black Oxide coating, which adheres excellently to the smooth surface of 1215.

Advantages of CNC Machining 1215

Advantage Detailed Description Key Benefit
Highest Machinability Rated at ~136% machinability (compared to 1212 baseline). It cuts faster than almost any other steel. Lowest possible unit cost due to minimal machine time.
Excellent Surface Finish Cuts cleanly without tearing, leaving a satin-like smooth surface. Often eliminates the need for grinding or polishing.
Extended Tool Life The sulfur content lubricates the cut, reducing friction on cutting tools. Reduces downtime for tool changes, keeping production continuous.
Dimensional Stability Machines with very low vibration and cutting force. Easy to hold tight tolerances on long, slender parts.
Cost Efficiency Combination of low material cost and fast processing. The most economical choice for fittings and fasteners.

Technical Parameters & Material Standards

1215 is the modern, environmentally friendly replacement for leaded steels (like 12L14) in many applications:
Grade Category Specification Characteristics & Ideal Uses
AISI / SAE 1215 Free-Machining Characteristics: Low Carbon (0.09% max), High Manganese, Sulfur, and Phosphorus. The sulfur forms manganese sulfide inclusions which act as chip breakers.
Uses: Bushings, inserts, coupling parts, hydraulic fittings, pins, screws.
EN 1.0736 11SMn37 Characteristics: The European equivalent. Offers identical high-speed machining performance.
Uses: High-volume turned parts for automotive and general industry.

CNC Machining Guidelines 1215

  • Welding: Do Not Weld. The high sulfur and phosphorus content causes porosity and hot cracking. Parts must be assembled via threads or press-fits.
  • Strength: 1215 has relatively low tensile strength and ductility compared to 1018. It should not be used for components subjected to high fatigue, shock, or structural loads.
  • Corrosion: It has poor corrosion resistance and will rust quickly. A protective coating (Zinc Plate, Nickel, or Oil) is mandatory for final parts.
  • Case Hardening: While it cannot be through-hardened, it can be case-hardened (carburized) to improve surface wear resistance, though the core remains soft.

Application Scenarios

  • Automotive: Fluid connectors, brake pins, sensor housings, spacers.
  • Industrial: Hydraulic fittings, hose crimp collars, conveyor rollers.
  • Fasteners: Custom bolts, nuts, studs, standoffs.
  • Electronics: Mounting hardware, knurled thumb screws.
  • Furniture: Dowel pins, assembly cam locks.

Physical Properties Table

Comparison: 1215 (Free Machining) vs 1018 (Standard Mild):
Property AISI 1215 AISI 1018 Unit
Machinability 136% 78% Rating
Tensile Strength 380 - 540 440 MPa
Yield Strength 225 - 415 370 MPa
Hardness (Brinell) 121 126 HB
Elongation 10 - 13% 15% (Lower ductility)
Weldability Poor Excellent -
 
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Factory Address :
Shenzhen: Fourth Industrial Zone, Xisha Road, Shajing Street, Baoan District, Shenzhen.
Dongguan: Building 5 and 4, No. 198, Chang'an Section, Guanchang Road, Chang'an Town, Dongguan.
 
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