-

Carbon Steel Grades Explained: A Buyer’s Complete Guide

This guide breaks down the main carbon steel grades, their key properties, and how YILI Metal helps buyers choose the right type for their industrial needs.


What makes carbon steel so versatile?

Carbon steel isn’t a one-size-fits-all material — it’s more like a family with different personalities. Each grade varies in carbon content and mechanical properties, which means there’s a perfect match for every job. Whether you need something tough, flexible, or easy to machine, carbon steel delivers dependable performance across countless industries.

Understanding the main carbon steel grades

Let’s simplify it:

  • Low Carbon Steel (Mild Steel): Contains less than 0.25% carbon. It’s soft, ductile, and easy to form or weld — ideal for construction, panels, and everyday hardware.

  • Medium Carbon Steel: Around 0.25–0.6% carbon. Stronger but still workable, this type suits machinery parts, axles, and shafts.

  • High Carbon Steel: Above 0.6% carbon. Hard and wear-resistant, it’s perfect for tools, blades, and springs.

In short — low means flexible, medium means balanced, and high means hard.

How to pick the right grade

Think about your end use: Do you need flexibility or endurance? For fabrication-heavy projects, go with low carbon. For structural strength, medium is your best bet. For cutting or wear resistance, high carbon stands out. A small change in carbon content can make a big difference — like turning soft clay into solid rock.

YILI Metal — your trusted steel supplier

At YILI Metal, we specialize in high-quality carbon steel materials tailored to your exact requirements. From coils and plates to custom-cut orders, our products meet global standards and strict quality checks. We don’t just sell steel — we help you choose smarter, source faster, and build stronger.

When it comes to carbon steel, knowledge is strength — and YILI Metal is here to deliver both.

If you have questions of carbon steel, please contact us!