Steel’s carbon content determines much of its behavior in fabrication, from mechanical properties to weldability. As carbon increases, strength and hardness rise, but ductility and machinability drop, making steels more difficult to weld. Low carbon steels are the most weldable, while medium and high carbon steels require preheating and strict control to avoid cracking. This post breaks down the effects of carbon on strength, hardness, ductility, weldability, and machinability, giving welders and engineers practical insights for better decision-making. Understanding these relationships helps prevent failures, improve weld quality, and reduce fabrication costs.
