420C / X46Cr13 vs 410 / X12Cr13: Both martensitic — 420C has much higher carbon for hardness
420C / X46Cr13 vs 410 / X12Cr13
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
420C / X46Cr13
1.4034
High-carbon martensitic stainless steel. Higher hardness than 410 (up to 56 HRC). The standard knife steel for European cutlery. Used for kitchen knives, pocket knives, surgical scalpels, machine blades, roller bearings, and valve components. Not weldable.
410 / X12Cr13
1.4006
The basic martensitic stainless steel — 12% chromium with moderate carbon. Hardenable by heat treatment to provide good strength with moderate corrosion resistance. Used for steam turbine blades, pump shafts, valve components, bolts, and mining equipment.
| 420C / X46Cr13 | 410 / X12Cr13 | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | 1.4034 | 1.4006 |
| Category | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Standard | EN 10088-3 | EN 10088-2 |
Chemical composition (wt%)
| Element | 420C / X46Cr13 | 410 / X12Cr13 | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0.43–0.5% | 0.08–0.15% | No overlap |
| Si | 0–1% | 0–1% | OK |
| Mn | 0–1% | 0–1.5% | OK |
| P | 0–0.04% | 0–0.04% | OK |
Mechanical properties
| Property | 420C / X46Cr13 | 410 / X12Cr13 | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| hardness_hrc | 50–56 | — | HRC |
| hardness_hb | ≤ 248 | ≤ 248 | HB |
| e_modulus | ≥ 215 | ≥ 215 | GPa |
Compatibility Assessment
420C (X46Cr13) has 0.43-0.50% C giving 50-56 HRC. 410 (X12Cr13) has 0.08-0.15% C giving max ~40 HRC. 420C is for cutting tools and blades; 410 is for structural/engineering components.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 420C / X46Cr13 the same as 410 / X12Cr13?
420C / X46Cr13 and 410 / X12Cr13 have a 60% composition overlap. Both martensitic — 420C has much higher carbon for hardness
Can I replace 420C / X46Cr13 with 410 / X12Cr13?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (60% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between 420C / X46Cr13 and 410 / X12Cr13?
The main differences are in the following elements: C, Cr. 420C / X46Cr13 is a Stainless Steel grade, while 410 / X12Cr13 is a Stainless Steel grade.
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
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