1008 Steel vs. A36 Steel: Key Differences, Properties, Applications, and Cost

When choosing the right steel for your project, the differences between 1008 steel and A36 steel can be confusing. Both are popular low-carbon steels used in CNC machining and fabrication. But picking the wrong one can cause unnecessary machining challenges, higher costs, or lower part performance. You need to understand their real differences before deciding.

• Tip: Choosing the wrong steel grade can increase machining costs and reduce material efficiency. Always compare chemical composition, strength, and weldability before ordering.

 

The difference between 1008 steel and A36 steel lies mainly in their chemical composition and strength. 1008 steel is a low-carbon steel with excellent formability and ductility, ideal for deep drawing and cold forming. A36 steel, on the other hand, has higher carbon content and strength, making it suitable for structural and general fabrication applications.

 

Now that you know the basic distinction between these two steels, let’s dive deeper. You’ll learn what 1008 steel and A36 steel actually are, their equivalent grades, and how their properties, advantages, and costs compare. By the end, you’ll be confident choosing the right material for your CNC machining or fabrication project.

• Note: If your project involves CNC machining, check out our CNC Machining Services for expert support on both 1008 and A36 steel parts.

 

 

What is 1008 Steel?

 

1008 steel is a low-carbon mild steel known for its excellent ductility, formability, and surface finish. It contains about 0.08% carbon and small amounts of manganese, making it ideal for cold-forming, deep drawing, and bending applications. Because of its clean surface and consistent mechanical properties, 1008 steel is widely used in automotive panels, fasteners, and CNC machining parts requiring smooth finishes.

 

In CNC machining, 1008 steel offers excellent weldability and machinability, though it is softer than higher-carbon steels. This softness makes it easier to cut but limits its use in high-strength structural applications.

• Tip: When designing 1008 steel CNC machined parts, consider using protective coatings to enhance corrosion resistance, since this steel rusts easily if left untreated.

Related resource: Learn how we process 1008 stainless steel CNC machining parts with precision and efficiency at VMT CNC machining factory.

 

 

 

What Steel is 1008 Steel Equivalent to?

 

1008 steel is often considered equivalent to UNS G10080, AISI 1008, and EN DC01 in international standards. It is part of the AISI 10xx series, representing low-carbon steels with carbon content under 0.10%. In mechanical behavior, it’s comparable to 1010 steel, though 1008 contains slightly less carbon, offering better ductility but lower strength.

 

This steel grade also aligns closely with SAE J403 and ASTM A1008, both specifying high-quality cold-rolled carbon steel sheets. These equivalents make 1008 steel versatile across automotive, electrical, and CNC fabrication industries.

• Tip: Always check material standards before importing or exporting parts—different regions may use local equivalents like JIS SPCC or DIN DC01, which may have small but important differences in performance.

Related link: Explore our CNC machining services to see how VMT adapts machining strategies for equivalent grades like AISI 1008 and 1010 steel.

 

 

 

What is A36 Steel?

 

A36 steel is a low-carbon structural steel defined by the ASTM A36 standard. It’s widely used in construction, fabrication, and CNC machining because of its excellent weldability, strength, and affordability. The carbon content around 0.25% is higher than that of 1008 steel, giving A36 greater tensile and yield strength, though slightly lower ductility.

 

A36 steel is commonly used for beams, plates, frames, and structural components where strength is critical. It can be hot-rolled or cold-rolled, depending on surface finish requirements. Its consistent performance and cost-effectiveness make it one of the most popular steels for both manual fabrication and CNC machined parts.

• Tip: When machining A36 steel, use sharp carbide tools and proper coolant to maintain surface quality and tool life.
• Call-out: For projects requiring A36 stainless steel CNC machining parts, check out our CNC machining factory page for detailed material support and processing options.

 

 

What is A36 Grade Steel Equivalent to?

 

A36 steel is equivalent to EN S275JR, DIN ST37-2, and JIS SS400 in international standards. These equivalents all represent low-carbon structural steels with similar mechanical strength and weldability. In the SAE system, it closely corresponds to AISI 1018 in terms of chemical composition and performance, though A36 allows a slightly broader range of carbon and manganese content.

 

Because of these similarities, A36 can often replace other mild steels in fabrication, construction, and CNC machining applications. However, it’s important to verify each standard’s tolerance and mechanical limits to ensure compatibility for your specific project.

• Tip: If you’re sourcing materials globally, confirm the ASTM or EN standard with your supplier to avoid issues in tensile strength or plate thickness compliance.
• Call-out: Learn how VMT’s CNC machining services optimize tooling and feeds for A36 and its equivalent steels.

 

 

1008 Steel vs. A36 Steel: Which is Better?

 

Both 1008 steel and A36 steel are widely used in manufacturing, but they serve different purposes.

• 1008 steel is preferred for cold-forming and precision machining because of its excellent ductility and surface quality.
• A36 steel, on the other hand, is stronger and ideal for structural applications like beams, plates, and welded parts.

In short: choose 1008 steel when you need formability and smooth finishes, and choose A36 steel when you need strength and weldability for load-bearing parts.

• Tip: Selecting based on mechanical requirements — not just cost — will help avoid part deformation or cracking during fabrication.

 

Comparison Chart: 1008 Steel vs. A36 Steel

 

 

• Note: If surface quality and tight tolerances matter most, 1008 steel is better. For load-bearing or welded structures, A36 steel offers better performance.

 

 

 

1008 Steel and A36 Steel: National Standards and Equivalent Grades

 

 

Both 1008 steel and A36 steel follow well-established international and national standards. These standards ensure consistent chemical composition, mechanical properties, and performance across global markets. Understanding the equivalent grades helps you select the right material when working with suppliers or CNC machining factories in different regions.

• Tip: Always confirm the corresponding national standard before production to avoid mismatches in hardness, strength, or machinability.

 

Comparison Table: National Standards and Equivalent Grades

 

 

• Note: Even though many of these equivalents share similar mechanical ranges, small differences in carbon or manganese content can affect weldability and surface finish.

 

 

1008 Steel and A36 Steel: Key Differences

 

 

Although both 1008 steel and A36 steel belong to the low-carbon steel family, their intended uses and performance characteristics differ significantly. 1008 steel focuses on formability and surface finish, while A36 steel prioritizes strength and structural performance. Understanding these differences helps you select the right material for your machining or fabrication project.

• Tip: Before finalizing your material choice, compare tensile strength, ductility, and carbon content — these directly impact your machining time and final part quality.

 

Comparison Chart: Key Differences Between 1008 and A36 Steel

 

 

• Note: For CNC machining requiring tight tolerances and smooth finishes, 1008 steel is better. For welded, load-bearing structures, A36 steel offers the advantage.

 

 

1008 Steel vs. A36 Steel: Advantages and Disadvantages

 

 

Both 1008 steel and A36 steel are versatile, affordable, and widely available. However, each has its own advantages and limitations that determine where it performs best. Knowing these strengths and weaknesses helps you select the right steel for your CNC machining, forming, or structural fabrication needs.

• Tip: Always align your steel choice with your project’s load requirements and forming processes to avoid material waste or machining difficulties.

 

 

1008 Steel: Advantages and Disadvantages

 

1008 steel stands out for its formability, ductility, and surface finish, making it ideal for cold-forming applications and precision CNC machined parts. However, its low carbon content limits its strength and wear resistance, making it unsuitable for heavy-load or high-stress structures.

• Note: Use 1008 steel for small parts and assemblies that require shaping or drawing rather than strength.

 

Comparison Chart: 1008 Steel Pros and Cons

 

 

• Tip: If corrosion or wear is a concern, consider post-processing like zinc plating or powder coating to extend part life.

 

 

A36 Steel: Advantages and Disadvantages

 

A36 steel is known for its high strength, versatility, and excellent weldability, making it a go-to material for construction and heavy-duty fabrication. While it offers better load-bearing capacity than 1008 steel, it’s less suitable for deep drawing or precision cold-forming because of its higher carbon content.

• Note: A36 steel provides a good balance between cost and strength, especially for welded or machined structures.

 

Comparison Chart: A36 Steel Pros and Cons

 

 

• Tip: For CNC machining, specify cold-rolled A36 steel for better dimensional accuracy and surface consistency.

 

 

 

1008 Steel and A36 Steel: Property Comparison

 

 

To choose between 1008 steel and A36 steel, it’s essential to compare their chemical and mechanical properties. These determine how each material performs in machining, welding, and forming applications. Chemical composition especially affects factors like strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance, which directly influence CNC machining quality and tool life.

• Tip: Always review the mill certificate for exact chemical composition—slight variations can affect weldability and strength in precision CNC parts.

 

 

 

 

1008 Steel and A36 Steel: Chemical Composition

 

The main difference between 1008 steel and A36 steel lies in their carbon and manganese content.

• 1008 steel contains very low carbon, offering superior ductility and formability.
• A36 steel has higher carbon and manganese, providing greater strength but less flexibility.

This difference defines their ideal applications: 1008 for deep drawing and precision forming, and A36 for structural and load-bearing uses.

• Note: More carbon increases hardness and strength but reduces ductility—an important factor in cold-forming and CNC machining.

 

Comparison Table: Chemical Composition of 1008 vs. A36 Steel % by weight

 

 

• Tip: For high-precision CNC machining, steels with tighter chemical control—like 1008 or 1010—reduce variability in cutting performance.

 

1008 Steel and A36 Steel: Physical Properties
 

While both 1008 steel and A36 steel are low-carbon steels, their physical properties differ slightly due to variations in carbon and alloy content. These differences affect how each material behaves during CNC machining, welding, and forming. Understanding these properties helps you select the right steel for your project’s strength, precision, and cost requirements.

• Tip: Always consider thermal expansion and conductivity when designing precision parts — these influence machining tolerance and dimensional stability.

 

Density

• 1008 Steel: 7.87 g/cm³
• A36 Steel: 7.85 g/cm³

Both have nearly identical densities, ensuring similar weight per unit volume. The slight difference has minimal effect on fabrication or CNC machining performance.

• Note: Density becomes relevant when calculating mass or load-bearing performance for structural components.

 

Melting Point °C

• 1008 Steel: ~1,425–1,530°C
• A36 Steel: ~1,425–1,538°C

The melting points are nearly the same. A36 may exhibit slightly higher resistance to heat due to higher carbon content.

• Tip: When welding A36, control heat input carefully to prevent warping or loss of mechanical strength.

 

Thermal Conductivity W/m·K

• 1008 Steel: ~51 W/m·K
• A36 Steel: ~45–51 W/m·K

1008 steel has slightly better thermal conductivity, helping it dissipate machining heat more efficiently.

• Note: Better heat dissipation reduces tool wear and improves machining surface quality.

 

Resistivity Ω·m

• 1008 Steel: 1.6 × 10⁻⁷ Ω·m
• A36 Steel: 1.7 × 10⁻⁷ Ω·m

Both steels conduct electricity well. The difference is negligible for most applications but may matter in electrical or magnetic component fabrication.

• Tip: For electrical enclosures, 1008’s slightly lower resistivity provides better conductivity.

 

Thermal Expansion

Linear Thermal Expansion Coefficient 10⁻⁶/K:

• 1008 Steel: ~12.0
• A36 Steel: ~12.3

Both expand at similar rates when heated. A36’s slightly higher coefficient may cause minor dimensional shifts during welding or machining.

• Note: Compensate for expansion during precision CNC milling to maintain tolerances.

 

Corrosion Resistance

 

Both steels have low natural corrosion resistance and require protective coatings such as painting, galvanizing, or plating.

• 1008 Steel: Slightly more uniform surface; better coating adhesion.
• A36 Steel: Rougher surface; still compatible with coating processes.

Tip: Always apply protective coatings to prevent rust during storage or service exposure.

 

 

Magnetic Properties

 

Both 1008 and A36 steels are ferromagnetic, meaning they can be magnetized. Their magnetic permeability is high, making them suitable for electromagnetic components and motor housings.

• Note: For non-magnetic requirements, consider austenitic stainless steels like 304.

 

Formability

• 1008 Steel: Excellent — ideal for cold forming, stamping, and deep drawing.
• A36 Steel: Moderate — suitable for bending and general forming but not deep drawing.

Tip: Choose 1008 steel for parts requiring multiple forming operations or complex shapes.

 

 

Machinability

• 1008 Steel: Easy to machine; low tool wear due to soft structure.
• A36 Steel: Good machinability but requires sharper tools and coolant for clean finishes.

Note: For high-volume CNC machining, 1008 steel offers smoother operation and longer tool life.

 

 

Weldability

 

Both steels have excellent weldability, with A36 being slightly more robust for heavy structural welding due to higher strength.

• 1008 Steel: Welds easily with minimal preheat.
• A36 Steel: May need preheat for thick sections.

Tip: Use appropriate filler materials to prevent cracking and ensure consistent weld strength.

 

 

While both 1008 steel and A36 steel are mild carbon steels, their physical properties differ slightly due to variations in composition and manufacturing processes. These differences influence their machinability, weldability, and thermal performance, making one more suitable than the other for specific CNC machining or fabrication applications.

 

 

Comparison Table: Physical Properties of 1008 Steel and A36 Steel

 

 

 

 

 

1008 Steel and A36 Steel: Mechanical Properties

 

 

The mechanical properties of 1008 steel and A36 steel define their performance in forming, machining, and structural applications.

While 1008 steel is a low-carbon material with superior ductility and formability, A36 steel offers higher strength and rigidity, making it a preferred choice for load-bearing and welded structures.
Understanding these differences is essential for selecting the right material for CNC machining parts, automotive components, or construction projects.

 

 

Comparison Table: Mechanical Properties of 1008 Steel and A36 Steel

 

 

 

Summary:

• 1008 Steel → Better formability, ductility, and machinability.
• A36 Steel → Higher strength, hardness, and fatigue resistance, ideal for structural CNC parts and load-bearing applications.

 

 

 

1008 Steel and A36 Steel: Heat Treatment

 

 

Heat treatment is a crucial process that modifies the mechanical properties, microstructure, and machinability of steels.

Both 1008 steel and A36 steel respond differently to heat treatment because of their varying carbon content and alloy composition.
Understanding their respective heat treatment behaviors helps determine the most suitable process for forming, machining, or strengthening CNC parts and structural components.

 

 

Comparison Table: Heat Treatment of 1008 Steel and A36 Steel

 

 

Summary:

• 1008 steel is primarily annealed or cold worked — it’s not suitable for hardening because of its very low carbon content.
• A36 steel can undergo normalizing, quenching, and tempering for improved strength and wear resistance, but care must be taken to prevent cracking or warping.
• For CNC machining, annealed 1008 steel provides excellent formability, while normalized A36 offers greater dimensional stability during cutting and drilling.

 

 

 

1008 Steel and A36 Steel: Applications and Uses

 

The applications of 1008 steel and A36 steel differ based on their mechanical properties, formability, and strength.

• 1008 steel is ideal for precision parts, deep-drawn components, and CNC machining where surface finish and ductility matter.
• A36 steel is better suited for structural components, heavy-duty fabrication, and welded assemblies due to its higher strength and load-bearing capacity.

Understanding these applications ensures you select the right steel for your project and avoid unnecessary machining or material costs.

• Tip: Always match your steel selection with your project requirements — using 1008 where A36 is needed may cause structural failure, and vice versa may increase machining difficulty.

 

 

 

Comparison Table: Applications and Uses of 1008 vs. A36 Steel

 

 

 

• Note: Selecting the correct steel prevents premature failure, reduces processing costs, and improves final part quality. 
• Note: 1008 is ideal where surface finish and shaping are priorities, while A36 is best for strength and structural stability. Proper coating or painting is recommended for both to prevent corrosion.

 

 

1008 Steel and A36 Steel: Cost and Price

 

Cost is a critical factor when selecting between 1008 steel and A36 steel, especially for CNC machining, fabrication, and structural applications.

• 1008 steel typically has a slightly lower initial cost and is easier to machine, reducing tool wear and processing time.
• A36 steel may have a higher initial price, but its strength and structural performance can provide long-term cost savings in load-bearing applications.

Balancing material cost, processing, and project requirements ensures optimal performance and budget efficiency.

• Tip: Consider both short-term purchase cost and long-term processing/maintenance costs before selecting your steel.

 

 

Comparison Table: Cost and Price of 1008 Steel vs. A36 Steel

 

 

• Tip: Always factor in post-processing like coating or heat treatment when calculating total project costs — neglecting this can increase long-term expenses.

 

 

How to Choose Between 1008 Steel and A36 Steel?

 

Choosing the right steel is crucial for project success, machining efficiency, and cost management.

Both 1008 steel and A36 steel have advantages depending on your application, mechanical requirements, and fabrication methods. Understanding their key characteristics helps you make an informed decision for CNC machining, structural parts, or forming processes.

• Tip: Always match the steel to your part’s load, surface finish, and manufacturing process to avoid unnecessary cost or rework.

 

When to Choose 1008 Steel?

• Your project requires high ductility and excellent formability, such as deep drawing or stamping.
• CNC machining is involved and a smooth surface finish is important.
• Parts are non-load-bearing and strength is not the primary concern.
• You need cost-effective material for small components or high-volume production.

Comment: 1008 steel is perfect for automotive panels, brackets, fasteners, enclosures, and precision CNC machined parts.

 

 

When to Choose A36 Steel?

• The project demands higher strength and toughness, such as structural beams or heavy-duty machinery parts.
• Welding or load-bearing assembly is required.
• Parts must withstand fatigue, shear, or high-stress conditions.
• You are willing to handle slightly higher machining effort or post-processing for long-term durability.

Comment: A36 steel is ideal for construction, structural frameworks, industrial machinery, and welded assemblies.

 

Summary:

• 1008 steel → Best for formability, CNC machining, and light-duty parts.
• A36 steel → Best for strength, structural integrity, and load-bearing applications.

 

 

What Steel is Stronger than A36 Steel?

 

While A36 steel is widely used for structural applications due to its moderate strength, good weldability, and affordability, there are steels with higher tensile strength and improved mechanical properties for projects that demand more durability or load-bearing capacity. Knowing the alternatives ensures your parts can handle stress, wear, and heavy loads.

• Tip: Selecting a stronger steel can prevent part deformation or failure, but may increase machining difficulty and cost.

 

Steels Stronger than A36 Steel

 

 

• Comment: Stronger steels like A572 or 4140 provide better load-bearing capacity than A36 but may require special machining tools or heat treatment to maintain precision.

 

Summary:

If your project involves heavy loads, structural stress, or critical machinery parts, consider steels like A572, A992, 4140, or 1045 over A36 for enhanced strength and durability.

 

 

Are 1008 Steel and A36 Steel Suitable for Your Project?

 

Choosing the right steel ensures your project meets performance, durability, and cost requirements.

Both 1008 steel and A36 steel are versatile, but their suitability depends on mechanical demands, machining processes, and final application. Understanding their strengths and limitations helps you avoid overengineering or material failure.

• Tip: Always evaluate the load, formability, corrosion resistance, and machining requirements before finalizing your steel selection.

 

Suitability of 1008 Steel

• Best for non-load-bearing parts that require high ductility and excellent formability.
• Ideal for CNC machining, deep drawing, and stamped components where surface finish is critical.
• Common in automotive panels, brackets, enclosures, and fasteners.

Comment: 1008 steel is cost-effective for high-volume production and small components, but it is not recommended for structural or heavy-duty parts.

 

 

Suitability of A36 Steel

• Excellent for structural and load-bearing applications due to higher strength and toughness.
• Suitable for welded assemblies, construction frameworks, and heavy machinery components.
• Can withstand stress, fatigue, and moderate wear, making it ideal for industrial and construction projects.

Comment: A36 steel is more robust but less ductile than 1008, so consider machining requirements and surface finish when precision is critical.

 

Summary:

• Use 1008 steel for precision, formability, and light-duty CNC parts.
• Use A36 steel for strength, structural stability, and heavy-duty fabrication.

 

 

VMT: Provide 1008 and A36 Steel CNC Machined Parts Services Factory

 

At VMT, we specialize in providing precision CNC machining services for both 1008 steel and A36 steel. Whether your project requires high-ductility components or load-bearing structural parts, our team delivers high-quality, cost-effective solutions that meet strict tolerances and surface finish requirements.

• Tip: Working with a professional CNC machining factory like VMT ensures parts are manufactured efficiently, reducing scrap and production costs.

 

Our 1008 and A36 Steel CNC Machining Capabilities

 

            

Why Choose VMT?

• Expertise: Experienced with both low-carbon 1008 and structural steels A36.
• Precision: Tight tolerances and high-quality surface finishes for CNC parts.
• Efficiency: Optimized machining processes to reduce production time and cost.
• Versatility: Supports both small, precision components and heavy-duty structural parts.

Note: Partnering with a professional CNC machining factory like VMT ensures consistent quality, reduces material waste, and improves overall project efficiency.

 

 

 

 

 

Conclusion

 

Choosing between 1008 steel and A36 steel depends on your project’s mechanical requirements, formability, and load-bearing needs.

• 1008 steel is ideal for high-ductility, precision, and CNC-machined parts where surface finish and easy forming are priorities.
• A36 steel is better suited for structural, heavy-duty, and welded components that require higher strength and toughness.

By understanding their chemical, physical, and mechanical properties, as well as cost and processing considerations, you can make an informed choice that balances performance, manufacturability, and budget.

 

Partnering with a reliable CNC machining service like VMT ensures your 1008 or A36 steel parts are manufactured efficiently, accurately, and to the highest quality standards, helping your project succeed.

• Tip: Always consider the combination of material properties, application demands, and machining requirements to optimize both performance and cost.

 

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs

 

 

1. Is A36 steel the same as 1018 steel?

No. A36 steel is a structural carbon steel with higher strength, primarily used in construction, while 1018 steel is a low-carbon steel commonly used for precision machining and mechanical parts.

 

 

2. Which is stronger, 1018 or A36?

A36 steel is stronger in terms of tensile and yield strength, making it more suitable for structural and load-bearing applications. 1018 is more ductile and easier to machine.

 

 

3. Does A36 steel rust easily?

Yes. A36 steel is prone to corrosion if left uncoated. Painting, galvanizing, or plating is recommended for outdoor or humid environments.

 

 

4. Can A36 steel be galvanized?

Yes. Hot-dip galvanizing or zinc coating can protect A36 steel from rust and increase durability.

 

 

5. Is 1008 a mild steel?

Yes. 1008 steel is a low-carbon mild steel with excellent formability, weldability, and machinability.

 

 

6. What is the SAE 1008 steel grade?

SAE 1008 steel is a low-carbon, cold-rolled mild steel used for parts requiring smooth surface finish and good ductility.

 

 

7. Does 1008 steel rust?
 

Yes. Like other mild steels, 1008 steel can rust if exposed to moisture. Surface treatment like painting, plating, or coating is recommended.

 

 

8. Is A36 steel the same as Grade 50 steel?

No. Grade 50 A572-50 steel is stronger than A36, with higher yield strength, making it better for heavy-duty structural applications.

 

 

9. What is the difference between 1008 steel and 1018 steel?

1008 steel has lower carbon content and better formability, while 1018 has slightly higher carbon, offering higher strength and wear resistance, making it better for machined components under moderate load.

 

 

10. Is A36 suitable for welding?

Yes. A36 steel has excellent weldability and can be joined using MIG, TIG, or arc welding methods. Preheating may be required for thick sections.

 

 

11. Is A36 hot-rolled or cold-rolled?

A36 steel is primarily hot-rolled, which makes it ideal for structural shapes, beams, and plates.

 

 

12. Is A36 cast iron?

No. A36 steel is a mild carbon steel, not cast iron. It is ductile and weldable, unlike brittle cast iron.