AISI 1010/1015 Low-Carbon Steel Balls for General Mechanical Use
REDHILL supplies case-hardened low-carbon steel balls for furniture, conveyors, automotive parts and general mechanisms. Case hardening creates a hard outer layer while the core remains softer. As a result, these balls combine surface wear resistance with a tough core.
Key Material Data
The following values describe the base steel and typical surface properties. However, ball size and heat treatment affect case depth and core hardness.
- AISI 1010 base composition: C 0.08–0.13%, Mn 0.30–0.60%; iron balance.
- AISI 1015 base composition: C 0.13–0.18%, Mn 0.30–0.60%; iron balance.
- Reference surface hardness: 60–66 HRC after case hardening.
- Core: Softer low-carbon steel; hardness depends on the specified treatment and ball diameter.
- Density: Approximately 7.85 g/cm³.
- Magnetic properties: Magnetic at room temperature.
Surface Hardness and Material Selection
The hard outer layer helps resist wear at contact points. In addition, the softer core provides toughness for general mechanical service. Therefore, choose the case depth and hardness to match the contact load.
The precision grade also affects fit and motion. For example, drawer slides and light-duty bearings can require different levels of accuracy.
Corrosion Protection
However, these steels have limited corrosion resistance. Therefore, choose lubrication, plating or other surface protection to suit the environment.
Applications of AISI 1010/1015 Low-Carbon Steel Balls
For example, common uses include:
- Automotive: Selected seat belt, steering and general mechanical assemblies.
- Furniture: Casters, drawer slides and rolling mechanisms.
- Conveyors: Conveyor rollers and material handling systems.
- Industrial equipment: Light-duty ball bearings, guides and linkages.
- Consumer products: Locks, toys and household mechanisms.
Grades and Sizes
- Precision grades: G40–G2000. See our precision grade guide for tolerance details.
- Diameter range: 0.5–150.0 mm, subject to the required grade and material condition.
In addition, include any surface hardness, case depth or finish requirement with your inquiry. Finally, send us your ball diameter, quantity and working conditions. We can then confirm the available specification and lead time.