In this article, you will find a technical comparison of engineering steels CK45, MO40, and VCN in terms of chemical composition, mechanical properties, applications, and price.
Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, and by adding other elements, its mechanical and physical properties can be modified. This flexibility in chemical design has led to steel being classified into numerous categories, ranging from carbon steels to alloy steels, tool steels, stainless steels, and heat-treatable steels. Each type of steel is designed for a specific purpose based on characteristics such as strength, hardness, toughness, or machinability. This diversity enables steel to meet the needs of industries such as automotive manufacturing, construction, toolmaking, and heavy industry.
Introduction to CK45 Steel
Chemical Composition of CK45 Steel
CK45 is a medium-carbon steel containing approximately 0.45% carbon. This carbon content provides suitable hardness even without heat treatment; however, to achieve optimal properties, heat treatment is often applied. Its alloying elements are very limited and mainly consist of iron, carbon, and small amounts of manganese and phosphorus.
Mechanical Properties of CK45 Steel
One of the standout features of CK45 steel is the balance between tensile strength and machinability. In its normalized condition, it has a tensile strength of approximately 580 to 750 MPa, which increases significantly after heat treatment. Its toughness is moderate and it has reasonable impact resistance, but its wear resistance is lower compared to alloy steels.
Applications of CK45 Steel
Due to its reasonable price and good machinability, CK45 steel is widely used in the production of shafts, crankshafts, pins, industrial machine parts, and agricultural equipment. It is also a suitable choice for industries requiring a combination of hardness and formability. For cost estimation and project budgeting, paying attention to the price of CK45 steel is highly important.
Introduction to MO40 Steel
Chemical Composition of MO40 Steel
MO40 steel, also known as AISI 4140, is a chromium-molybdenum alloy steel. It contains approximately 0.4% carbon, and the addition of chromium, molybdenum, and manganese enhances properties such as hardenability and heat resistance. This chemical composition allows MO40 to perform reliably under demanding operating conditions.
Mechanical Properties of MO40 Steel
MO40 is recognized as a high-strength alloy steel. After quenching and tempering, its hardness exceeds 200 Brinell, and its tensile strength ranges from 850 to 1000 MPa. It performs exceptionally well against wear, dynamic loads, and thermal stresses, making it highly attractive for heavy industries.
Applications of MO40 Steel
This steel is used in the manufacturing of heavily loaded components such as gears, crankshafts, power transmission parts, industrial molds, and specialized shafts. It is also widely applied in drilling machinery and petrochemical industries, where fatigue and heat resistance are critical. For better decision-making in industrial projects, reviewing the price of MO40 steel in different product forms is essential.
Introduction to VCN Steel (Typically VCN150 or VCN200)
Chemical Composition of VCN Steel
VCN steel belongs to the nickel-chromium-molybdenum steel family. Its nickel content can reach approximately 1.5–2%, and the exact alloying percentages vary depending on the grade (VCN150 or VCN200). The more complex chemical composition makes this steel suitable for highly specialized and technical applications.
Mechanical Properties of VCN Steel
VCN steel offers extremely high tensile strength and can achieve hardness levels of about 300–350 Brinell after heat treatment. Exceptional toughness, high heat and wear resistance, and the ability to operate under extreme stress conditions are among its key advantages. In terms of hardness, it can compete with tool steels.
Applications of VCN Steel
VCN steel is widely used in aerospace industries, hydraulic components, precision tools, high-pressure parts, and advanced industrial machinery. Due to its superior quality and use in critical equipment, an accurate comparison of the price of VCN200 steel with other engineering steels is particularly important.
Comparison of CK45, MO40, and VCN Steels
Differences in Chemical Composition
CK45 is a plain carbon steel, whereas MO40 and VCN are alloy steels. MO40 achieves good heat resistance through chromium and molybdenum, while VCN, with the addition of nickel, provides a higher level of strength, toughness, and impact resistance. In essence, increased chemical complexity directly enhances performance capabilities.
Differences in Hardness and Tensile Strength
CK45 has lower hardness and tensile strength compared to the other two steels. MO40 ranks one level higher and is suitable for industrial parts subjected to heavy loads. VCN stands at the top of this comparison, offering the highest capacity to withstand extreme forces and harsh conditions. The choice among these steels depends on the precise mechanical requirements of the project.
Differences in Machinability and Weldability
CK45 has better machinability due to its simple structure and offers acceptable weldability. MO40, being an alloy steel, requires more controlled machining and welding processes. VCN, with its harder structure and specialized alloying elements, generally demands high-performance cutting tools and specialized welding procedures.
Differences in Price and Availability
In terms of cost, CK45 is the most economical and is usually readily available in the market. MO40 is more expensive due to its alloying elements, and its availability may vary depending on market conditions. VCN steel—especially VCN200—is the most expensive among the three and is typically supplied only by specialized vendors.
Which Steel Is Best for Which Application?
Selecting the appropriate steel should be based on project type, operating conditions, total cost, and technical requirements. If you are looking for an economical steel for simple parts and mass production, CK45 is a logical choice. For industrial equipment subjected to cyclic loads or mechanical stress, MO40 is the best option. However, for projects where quality, durability, and performance under extreme conditions are critical, VCN—especially VCN200—should be prioritized. A detailed analysis of the price of MO40 steel and other grades, alongside their technical characteristics, enables smarter decision-making.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between CK45, MO40, and VCN steels can directly impact the quality, service life, and efficiency of industrial products. Each of these steels has a distinct role in engineering applications, and none can be considered universally superior. The final choice depends on the intended use, financial priorities, and technical specifications. Price and availability are also key factors. Being informed about the price of CK45 steel, MO40 steel, and VCN200 steel, together with a technical analysis of their properties, provides the best guidance for making the right selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MO40 steel better than VCN steel?
It depends on project requirements. If high strength at elevated temperatures and extreme hardness are needed, VCN is the better option. If cost is a more significant factor, MO40 is a suitable choice.
What is the difference between CK45 and MO40 steel?
CK45 is a simpler and more economical steel, while MO40 is an alloy steel with higher mechanical strength.
How can up-to-date prices of engineering steels be obtained?
By consulting reputable steel suppliers and specialized steel industry websites, you can obtain current prices for various steels, including MO40 and VCN200.