ASTM A36 vs Ck60 / C60E: 48% composition overlap. Significantly different materials serving different application areas.
ASTM A36 vs Ck60 / C60E
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
ASTM A36
K02600
The most common structural carbon steel in the US. Low carbon content with good weldability and machinability. Used for buildings, bridges, construction equipment, and general structural purposes. Minimum yield strength 36 ksi (250 MPa).
Ck60 / C60E
1.1221
Plain carbon quenched & tempered steel — 0.57-0.65% C. Highest practical C for Q&T without excessive brittleness. Good surface hardness (HRC 55-60) with adequate core toughness. Modern designation C60E (EN 10083-2), traditional Ck60 still widely used. Used for crankshafts, connecting rods, rail wheels, axles, and machine tool spindles where alloy cost is not justified.
| ASTM A36 | Ck60 / C60E | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | K02600 | 1.1221 |
| Category | Carbon Steel | Carbon Steel |
| Standard | ASTM A36/A36M | EN 10083-2 |
Chemical composition (wt%) — Pro
| Element | ASTM A36 | Ck60 / C60E | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0–0.26% | 0.57–0.65% | No overlap |
| Si | 0–0.4% | 0–0.4% | OK |
| Mn | 0–1.03% | 0.6–0.9% | OK |
| P | 0–0.04% | 0–0.025% | OK |
| S | |||
| Cu |
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Sign up free — 3 comparisons/day freeMechanical properties — Pro
| Property | ASTM A36 | Ck60 / C60E | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 400–550 | 800–950 | MPa |
| Yield Strength | ≥ 250 | 520–620 | MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 20 | 11–15 | % |
| Elastic Modulus | |||
| Density |
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Sign up free — 3 comparisons/day freeCompatibility Assessment
ASTM A36 and Ck60 / C60E have significantly different compositions (48% overlap). These materials are not interchangeable and serve different application areas.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ASTM A36 the same as Ck60 / C60E?
ASTM A36 and Ck60 / C60E have a 48% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace ASTM A36 with Ck60 / C60E?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (48% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between ASTM A36 and Ck60 / C60E?
The main differences are in the following elements: C. ASTM A36 is a Carbon Steel grade, while Ck60 / C60E is a Carbon Steel grade.
Related Comparisons
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.