The lack of alloying elements such as those found in stainless steels means that the iron in mild steel is subject to oxidation (rust) if not properly coated. Mild steel also has a high amount iron and ferrite, making it magnetic. 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. Less carbon means that mild steel is typically more ductile, machinable, and weldable than high carbon and other steels, however, it also means it is nearly impossible to harden and strengthen through heating and quenching. Since its carbon and alloying element content are relatively low, there are several properties it has that differentiate it from higher carbon and alloy steels. Mild steel is not an alloy steel and therefore does not contain large amounts of other elements besides iron you will not find vast amounts of chromium, molybdenum, or other alloying elements in mild steel.

If any more carbon than that is added, the steel would be classified as cast iron. Mild steel is a type of carbon steel with a low amount of carbon – it is actually also known as “low carbon 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%. But exactly what is mild steel? To help define this term, this article will explain its properties, how it is made and also a few examples of common applications. Among these is mild steel, a commonly used term describing a general type of steel. From carbon to alloy steel, tool steel to stainless steel, there are countless types, categories and grades of steel.

In a recent video blog series, we reviewed the main types of steel available in today’s market (Watch Part 1 Here).

Form taps mild steel