1Cr15Ni4Mo3N VS 07Cr16Ni6: Which High-Strength Stainless Steel Should You Choose?
“Which stainless steel works best for aircraft bolts or high-stress parts?” If you’re picking materials for aerospace, precision machinery, or corrosive environments, this comparison cuts through the confusion. Let’s break down how 1Cr15Ni4Mo3N and 07Cr16Ni6 perform in strength, corrosion resistance, and real-world use.
What Makes These Steels Special?
Both 1Cr15Ni4Mo3N and 07Cr16Ni6 are semi-austenitic precipitation-hardening stainless steels. They start soft for easy shaping, then harden via heat treatment. But their differences matter for engineering decisions.
1Cr15Ni4Mo3N: The Aviation Workhorse
Key Features:
Old name: 13Cr15Ni4Mo3N
Structure after heat treatment: Mostly martensite (strong) with good corrosion resistance.
Cold workability: Easy to shape before hardening.
Top Uses:
Aircraft bolts, landing gear joints, engine fan shafts.
High-precision gears and fasteners.
Standards: Meets GJB 8268-2014 for aviation-grade steel bars.
07Cr16Ni6: The Tough All-Rounder
Key Features:
Old name: 0Cr16Ni6
Structure after cold treatment: Over 90% martensite (strong) + residual austenite (tough).
Low notch sensitivity: Resists cracking under stress.
Chemical Composition (GJB 7960-2012):
Element | 07Cr16Ni6 Range |
Carbon | 0.05–0.09% |
Chromium | 15.5–17.5% |
Nickel | 5.0–8.0% |
Mechanical Properties (Heat-Treated):
Property | 07Cr16Ni6 Performance |
Tensile Strength | ≥1180 MPa |
Yield Strength | ≥980 MPa |
Impact Energy (-192°C) | ≥55 J |
Top Uses: Aircraft engine parts, bolts, and components in acidic/salty environments.
1Cr15Ni4Mo3N VS 07Cr16Ni6: Direct Comparison
1. Strength and Toughness
1Cr15Ni4Mo3N: Better for high-temperature stability (e.g., engine shafts).
07Cr16Ni6: Excels in low-temperature toughness (e.g., cryogenic applications).
2. Corrosion Resistance
Both resist atmospheric and chemical corrosion.
07Cr16Ni6: Slightly better in acetic acid/salt environments.
3. Machining and Shaping
1Cr15Ni4Mo3N: Easier to cold-work before hardening.
07Cr16Ni6: Requires precise heat treatment (see table below).
07Cr16Ni6 Heat Treatment Steps:
975–1000°C quench
-70°C deep freeze
350–400°C temper
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: Which steel is cheaper?
A: Prices vary by supplier, but 07Cr16Ni6 often costs more due to complex heat treatment.
Q: Can these steels replace titanium alloys?
A: For mid-stress parts, yes—they’re lighter than titanium and resist corrosion better.
Q: Which has better fatigue resistance?
A: 1Cr15Ni4Mo3N suits cyclic loads (e.g., landing gear).
Final Takeaway
Choose 1Cr15Ni4Mo3N for hot sections of engines or precision gears. Pick 07Cr16Ni6 for cryogenic parts or acidic environments. Both meet strict aviation standards like GJB 8268-2014, but their niche strengths make them unique.
Need more details? Check our guide to [How Many Types of Stainless Steel Are There?].