Alloy Steel 4140 vs 4340: Medium vs Heavy-Duty Applications

4140 is the versatile, cost-effective alloy steel for most machine components. 4340 adds nickel for exceptional toughness and deeper hardenability, making it essential for aerospace landing gear and heavy-duty crankshafts.

Side-by-Side Property Comparison

PropertyAlloy Steel 4140Alloy Steel 4340
Tensile Strength655 MPa (95 ksi)745 MPa (108 ksi)
Yield Strength415 MPa (60 ksi)470 MPa (68 ksi)
Hardness197 HB217 HB
Density7.85 g/cm³7.85 g/cm³
Machinability Rating66/10057/100
Thermal Conductivity42.6 W/m·K44.5 W/m·K
Melting Point1,416–1,460 °C1,427–1,477 °C
Tolerance±0.01 mm±0.01 mm

Key Differences

PropertyAlloy Steel 4140Alloy Steel 4340Winner
Tensile Strength655 MPa745 MPaAlloy
Impact ToughnessGoodExceptionalAlloy
Hardenability DepthGoodExcellent (deep)Alloy
Machinability66/10057/100Alloy
Cost~$1.00/lb~$1.50/lbAlloy
Fatigue StrengthGoodExcellentAlloy

Which Material Should You Choose?

Choose Alloy Steel 4140 when:

  • General-purpose shafts and gears
  • Toolholders and collets
  • Moderate-stress components
  • Budget-conscious alloy steel needs
  • Oil and gas downhole tools
View Details Alloy Steel 4140

Choose Alloy Steel 4340 when:

  • Aircraft landing gear
  • Heavy-duty crankshafts
  • High-impact structural parts
  • Large cross-section parts needing through-hardening
  • Extreme fatigue applications
View Details Alloy Steel 4340

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