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Cold Rolled Squares
1018 Cold Rolled Steel Square bar meeting ASTM A108. Features a smooth, clean surface and tight dimensional tolerances, ideal for precision machining. In stock from 3/16" to 1/2".
About Cold Rolled Squares
1018 cold rolled steel square bar offers a clean surface finish, tight dimensional tolerances, and excellent machinability. Conforms to ASTM A108 and is ideal for shafts, dowels, and machined components.
Quick Facts
- Material: 1018 Cold Rolled Steel
- ASTM Standard: A108
- Available Sizes: 3/16" to 1/2" square
- Location: Los Angeles warehouse
- Services: Custom size, same-day pickup
Overview
Cold rolled 1018 steel square bar is a low-carbon steel that has been processed at room temperature. This cold finishing process increases its hardness and strength while providing a superior surface finish and tighter dimensional tolerances compared to hot rolled steel. Its uniform, precise shape makes it an excellent choice for applications requiring minimal surface preparation before fabrication. The material's composition provides a good balance of toughness, ductility, and strength for general-purpose use.
The key benefits of cold rolled square bar include its readiness for immediate use in machining, fabrication, and forming. It is highly suitable for case hardening and carburizing, which can significantly increase surface hardness while maintaining a softer core. Its predictable mechanical properties and consistent finish reduce processing time and waste in production environments. This makes it a cost-effective and reliable material for manufacturing precision parts where accuracy and surface quality are critical factors.
Technical Specifications
⚠️ Reference Data Only: Values shown are typical industry standards and may vary by manufacturer, lot, and heat treatment. For critical applications, please contact us to verify specifications or request a Mill Test Report (MTR).
Mechanical Properties (1018 Steel)
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 63,800 | PSI |
| Yield Strength | 53,700 | PSI |
| Elongation | 15 | % |
| Hardness | 126 | HB |
| Machinability | 70% | (vs 1212) |
Applicable Standards
- ASTM A108: Standard Specification for Steel Bar, Carbon and Alloy, Cold-Finished
Common Applications
- Machinery Components: Shafts, spindles, and pins where tight tolerances and a smooth surface are required.
- Fasteners: Dowels, studs, and special-purpose bolts due to its strength and machinability.
- Fixtures & Jigs: Mounting blocks, brackets, and fixtures used in manufacturing settings.
- Automotive Parts: Axles, pins, and connecting rods that require a combination of strength and ductility.
- General Fabrication: Decorative braces, frames, and supports where a clean finish is desired.
- Tooling: Base plates, tool holders, and non-hardened die sets.
- Hydraulics: Manifolds and fittings that need to be precision machined.
Working with Cold Rolled Squares
Machining
1018 cold rolled steel has excellent machinability, rated at 70% of 1212 steel. It produces a clean finish when turned, milled, or drilled. Using a coolant is recommended to maintain tool life and achieve the best surface quality.
Welding
This material is easily welded using all common welding techniques, including MIG, TIG, and stick welding. No pre-heating or post-heating is required for thin sections. For critical applications, be aware that welding will affect the cold-worked properties in the heat-affected zone.
Finishing
The smooth, clean surface of cold rolled steel is an ideal base for painting, powder coating, and plating. It is also well-suited for case hardening (carburizing) to create a hard, wear-resistant surface while keeping the core ductile.
Related Products
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between 1018 cold rolled and A36 hot rolled square bar?
A: 1018 cold rolled bar has a smooth, scale-free surface, tighter dimensional tolerances, and higher strength due to the cold finishing process. A36 hot rolled bar has a rougher, scaly surface and is used for general structural applications where precision is less critical.
Q: Is 1018 steel good for welding projects?
A: Yes, 1018 is one of the best carbon steels for welding. It can be readily welded using common methods without pre-heating. The heat from welding will, however, remove the effects of cold working in the area around the weld, making it softer.
Q: Does cold rolled steel rust?
A: Yes, like most carbon steels, 1018 cold rolled steel will rust if exposed to moisture. It has no significant corrosion resistance and should be painted, plated, or kept oiled to prevent oxidation.
Stock & Custom Sizes
Available sizes: 3/16" to 1/2" square. Standard lengths: 12 ft. Custom size available.
Same-day cutting and Los Angeles pickup available.
View Sizes & PricingNeed Cold Rolled Squares? Contact Bobco Metals for availability and Los Angeles pickup.
Request a Quote Ask an Expert| Item Size & Description | Weight (lbs.)/Ft | Click! Arrow to Select Size | Qty | Price | Actions |
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| 1.328 |
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0.850
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1.328
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