Mild Steel

Although ranges vary depending on the source, the amount of carbon typically found in mild steel is 0.05% to 0.25% by weight. Whereas higher carbon steels are typically described as having a carbon content from 0.30% to 2.0%. If any more carbon than that is added, the steel would be classified as cast iron.

Less carbon means that the steel is typically more ductile, machinable, and weldable than high carbon and other steels. This however also means it is nearly impossible to harden and strengthen through heating and quenching. The low carbon content also means it has very little carbon and other alloying elements to block dislocations in its crystal structure, generally resulting in less tensile strength than high carbon and alloy steels.

Mild steel is typically available as either hot rolled or cold rolled steel.  Learn more about the differences between the two.

Find out what mild steel is, how it is made and typical applications.