52100 is a high-carbon, chromium alloy steel with exceptional wear resistance, toughness, hardness, and fatigue strength commonly used to manufacture bearings and gears. It contains 1.30-1.60% chromium, which adds natural corrosion resistance, and its high carbon content contributes to exceptional hardness (~64 HRC) and wear resistance. Corrosion resistance is good. Machinability is good, but can be poor in its fully hardened state. Welding 52100 isn’t advised due its high hardenability.
King Steel Corporation offers in-house heat treating, including annealing, quenching, and tempering to increase hardness based on application needs. King Steel offers 52100 steel in hot-rolled or cold-drawn bar form, and in a variety of shapes and sizes. Additional value-added capabilities include machining, turning and polishing, and logistics, including warehousing and transloading to support JIT shipments.
| Chemical Properties | |
|---|---|
| Carbon | 0.98-1.1% |
| Chromium | 1.30-1.60% |
| Manganese | 0.25-0.45% |
| Phosphorus | <0.025% |
| Silicon | 0.15-0.30% |
| Sulfur | <0.025% |







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