CHEMICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF LOW CARBON STEEL: INSIGHT FROM PROCESS PARAMETERS

The ability of steel bar to function well in structural applications is a function of its mechanical properties. Many factors account for the variations in the mechanical properties of low carbon steel. Therefore, understanding the influence of Physical and chemical compositions on their mechanical properties is essential for material development and applications. This study therefore, explored the effects of the section sizes ranging from 10mm - 16 mm in diameters. Chemical compositions of the steel samples were carried out using XRF. Tests samples were machined using lathe machine and their tensile, hardness and impact properties were determined. Results showed that their carbon contents ranged from 0.01% to 0.25% and the ultimate tensile strength and the yield strength properties decreased with increase in sample diameter. Hence, the diameters of the rods have great influence on the mechanical properties of the materials. The results of this study are relevant to steel industries that produce low carbon steel and structural engineers that make use of this steel in construction.