Machinability of AISI 1045 Steel Plate Explained

When selecting steel for industrial manufacturing, machinability is a key factor—especially for parts that require precision, efficiency, and cost control. AISI 1045 steel plate, a medium carbon steel, is widely favored for its excellent balance of strength and machinability.

AISI 1045 steel plate contains approximately 0.45% carbon, giving it higher strength than low-carbon steels like A36, while still maintaining good processing characteristics. In its hot rolled or normalized condition, 1045 is easy to turn, mill, drill, and tap using standard tooling.

For most machining operations, AISI 1045 steel plate offers:

Smooth chip formation
Stable cutting conditions
Good surface finish with minimal tool wear

Its machinability rating is approximately 64% compared to B1112, making it much more workable than higher-carbon or alloy steels. With proper cutting speeds and coolant, it delivers consistent results even in long production runs.

Additionally, AISI 1045 steel plate responds well to heat treatment—such as quenching and tempering—without significantly sacrificing its machining behavior. However, once hardened, pre-machining or the use of specialized tools is recommended for best results.

Common applications where AISI 1045 steel plate machining excels include shafts, gears, bushings, hydraulic parts, and mechanical connectors, all requiring a reliable combination of strength and dimensional precision.

If you need a steel plate that’s strong, affordable, and machining-friendly, AISI 1045 steel plate is a top-tier choice across various industries and workshop conditions.