Common Properites
High carbon steel will be any type of steel that contains over 0.8% carbon but less than 2.11% carbon in its composition. The average level of carbon found in this metal usually falls right around the 1.5% mark. High carbon steel has a reputation for being especially hard, but the extra carbon also makes it more brittle than other types of steel. This type of steel is the most likely to fracture when misused.
Advantages
Depending on the specific needs of the person using it, high carbon steel can have many advantages over other options. This type of steel is excellent for making cutting tools or masonry nails. The hardness levels and metal wear resistance of high carbon steel is also rated very highly. High carbon steel is also preferred by many manufacturers who create metal cutting tools or press machinery that must bend and form metal.
Disadvantages
Many disadvantages also come with the use of high carbon steel. This type of steel is not recommended for any type of welding or welding work. Out of the commonly used types of steel, this one is the most likely to fracture or break because of extra brittleness. This style of steel doesn't necessarily hold up to wear as well as other types of specialty steel.
Common Uses
High carbon steel remains popular for a wide variety of uses. This type of steel is preferred in the manufacturing of many tools such as drill bits, knives, masonry nails, saws, metal cutting tools, and woodcutting tools.