SAE 8620: Flat Bars and Round Bars:The Smart Choice for High-Performance and Budget-Friendly Manufacturing
- Daivik Gupta
- Feb 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 31
SAE 8620 is a low-alloy steel known for its outstanding mechanical properties and versatility, making it a popular choice in many industrial applications. In this blog post, we will explore the chemical composition, material properties, equivalent materials, applications, and some intriguing facts about SAE 8620.

Chemical Composition
SAE 8620 is primarily composed of iron, with a specific blend of carbon, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, and nickel. The typical chemical composition of SAE 8620 is as follows:
Carbon (C): 0.18% - 0.23%
Manganese (Mn): 0.60% - 0.90%
Chromium (Cr): 0.40% - 0.60%
Molybdenum (Mo): 0.15% - 0.25%
Nickel (Ni): 0.40% - 0.70%
Phosphorus (P): ≤ 0.04%
Sulfur (S): ≤ 0.05%
Iron (Fe): Balance
This unique combination of elements gives SAE 8620 its desirable properties, making it suitable for various applications.
Material Properties
SAE 8620 exhibits a range of mechanical properties that make it a popular choice in engineering and manufacturing. Some of the key properties include:
Tensile Strength: Approximately 100,000 psi (690 MPa) in the annealed condition, which can increase significantly after heat treatment.
Yield Strength: Around 60,000 psi (414 MPa) in the annealed state.
Hardness: Typically ranges from 30 to 40 HRC after heat treatment.
Ductility: Good ductility, allowing for deformation without fracture.
Impact Resistance: Excellent toughness, making it suitable for applications that require resistance to shock and impact.
These properties can be further enhanced through processes such as carburizing, which increases surface hardness while maintaining a tough core.
Equivalent Materials
SAE 8620 has several equivalent materials in different standards, which can be used interchangeably depending on the application. Some of the notable equivalents include:
AISI 8620: The American Iron and Steel Institute designation.
DIN 1.6523: The German standard equivalent.
BS 817M40: The British standard equivalent.
JIS S45C: The Japanese Industrial Standards equivalent.
These equivalents may have slight variations in composition and properties, so it is essential to consider the specific requirements of your application when selecting a material.
Applications
Due to its excellent mechanical properties and versatility, SAE 8620 is used in a wide range of applications, including:
Gears: Used in the manufacturing of gears for automotive and industrial machinery due to its strength and wear resistance.
Shafts: Commonly used for shafts in various machinery, providing durability and reliability.
Crankshafts: Employed in the production of crankshafts for engines, where high strength and toughness are critical.
Fasteners: Utilized in the production of bolts, nuts, and other fasteners that require high strength.
Forgings: Often used in forged components that require a combination of strength and ductility.
Interesting Facts
Heat Treatment: SAE 8620 can be heat-treated to achieve different hardness levels, making it adaptable for various applications. Carburizing is a common heat treatment process used to enhance its surface hardness.
Widespread Use: This alloy steel is prevalent in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and heavy machinery, showcasing its versatility and reliability.
Cost-Effective: Compared to other high-strength materials, SAE 8620 is relatively cost-effective, making it an attractive option for manufacturers looking to balance performance and budget.
Weldability: While SAE 8620 can be welded, it requires preheating and post-weld heat treatment to avoid cracking and ensure the integrity of the weld.
Historical Significance: The development of SAE 8620 and similar alloy steels has played a crucial role in advancing engineering and manufacturing processes, particularly in the automotive industry.
Conclusion
SAE 8620 is an impressive alloy steel known for its strength, toughness, and versatility, which makes it a popular option for a wide range of applications. Its distinctive chemical makeup and outstanding material properties enable it to excel in challenging environments. Whether you work in the automotive, aerospace, or heavy machinery sectors, knowing the advantages and uses of SAE 8620 can assist you in making well-informed choices for your projects.
RN Gupta and Bros is a leading steel trading company with a proud history spanning over 50 years in the industry, serving more than 500 clients across India. Our vast experience and dedication to quality make us a reliable partner for all your steel requirements. If you need Sae 8620 steel or any other type of steel, don't hesitate to contact us. We are committed to delivering outstanding service and ensuring that your needs are addressed with precision and care. Let us take care of the details while you concentrate on your business!
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