The True Tensile Strength of SAE 1050 Steel Plate

When selecting steel for load-bearing applications, tensile strength is one of the most critical mechanical properties to consider. SAE 1050 steel plate, a high-quality medium-high carbon steel, offers an impressive balance of strength and toughness—but how strong is it really?

In its hot rolled condition, SAE 1050 steel plate typically offers a tensile strength between 620–880 MPa (90,000–128,000 psi). This range depends on factors like plate thickness, manufacturing method, and whether the material is supplied in a normalized or annealed condition.

What sets SAE 1050 steel plate apart is its heat treatment potential. After processes like quenching and tempering, its tensile strength can reach up to 1,000 MPa or more, making it suitable for high-load parts such as shafts, crank components, gears, and agricultural blades.

Here’s a general reference:

As-rolled condition: 620–780 MPa
Normalized: 700–850 MPa
Quenched & tempered: 850–1,000+ MPa

This strength comes with increased hardness and wear resistance, while still maintaining decent machinability—especially when compared to alloy steels of similar performance.

Conclusion:
If your project demands a strong, reliable steel plate without the cost of high-alloy materials, SAE 1050 steel plate offers excellent tensile strength for its price range. Just be sure to match the mechanical specs with your specific application needs.