What Is AR400?

By Jeff Weigang

Characteristics
There are a lot of different characteristics that you should be aware of when it comes to AR400. There are several different elements inside of this steel alloy that provides its characteristics. This includes both carbon and manganese. It helps to increase the hardness while creating something that is durable and impact-resistant.

Due to its hardness, it is capable of withstanding various abrasive materials. If you plan on working around cement, coal, brains, like aggregate, or earth, you can benefit from having this material around.

The Charpy Impact test will help you to identify just how ductile the metal is, especially at the colder temperatures. You don't want your metal to become too brittle, so the test will be able to tell you more about AR400 before you begin working with it.

Another characteristic that you need to know about AR400 is that it is not designed for load-bearing projects. It is an abrasion resistant steel as opposed to one for structural applications. It may be more brittle and susceptible to fracture than other steel alloys. As long as you are aware of the high stress levels encountered in load-bearing applications, it will make it easier for you to work with the steel appropriately.

Workability
The workability is another aspect that you need to be aware of when working with this steel alloy plate. Due to its hardness level, the form ability decreases significantly. This means that it is not easily machine level. If you plan on working with it for welding with it, it's going to be considerably more difficult.

During the manufacturing process, you will need to use special machining processes. This will help to prevent chipping and work hardening along the way.

If you plan on doing a lot of welding or forming, it may be best for you to choose a different steel plate than AR400. However, if you plan on using it in the state that you receive it from the supplier, it could be just what you need - especially if you are using it where there are going to be a lot of abrasive materials.

It's important for you to know about AR400 because it is a popular steel alloy that is high in carbon and manganese. When you know more about the characteristics and its workability, you can decide if it's the right alloy for your project. It is known for its hardness and abrasion resistance, which is why many people use it in such applications as hoppers, conveyors, linings, chutes, and handling equipment.

If you decide AR400 is right for you, work with a supplier who can provide you with the inventory you require as well as the competitive pricing that you seek.

Ranger Steel has always strived to form personal relationships with customers in a wide variety of industries. The industries we serve are as follows: ship building, oil and gas, mining, light and heavy commercial and industrial construction; service centers; as well as fabricators for heavy plate, vessel and heat exchangers, storage tanks, bridges, electrical transmission, and railcars.