CSN 14341 Alloy Steel Bar 14341 Round Bars 14341 Rods

Product Description

CSN 14341 is a specialized Czech (ÄŒSN) standard chromium-aluminum alloy steel, specifically designed for nitriding. Unlike the case-hardening steels we've discussed (which add carbon to the surface), 14341 is engineered to absorb nitrogen, creating an extremely hard "ceramic-like" surface layer that remains stable even at elevated temperatures.

1. Chemical Composition

The addition of Aluminum (Al) is the defining feature here; it reacts with nitrogen during the heat treatment process to form aluminum nitrides, which are incredibly hard.

2. Mechanical Properties (Quenched & Tempered)

Before nitriding, the core is usually Quenched and Tempered (QT) to provide high strength and toughness.

• Tensile Strength ($R_m$): 800 – 1050 MPa

• Yield Strength ($R_e$): $\ge$ 600 MPa

• Elongation ($A_5$): $\ge$ 14%

• Impact Energy (KU/KCV): $\ge$ 35 J

• Nitrided Surface Hardness: Can reach 900 – 1100 HV (Vickers), which is significantly harder than standard case-hardened steel.

3. Key Technical Characteristics

• Exceptional Wear Resistance: The nitrided layer is extremely thin but provides world-class resistance to abrasion and galling.

• Thermal Stability: Unlike carburized steels, the hardness of a nitrided 14341 layer does not "soften" significantly when exposed to operating temperatures up to 400°C–500°C.

• Corrosion Resistance: The nitriding process provides a modest boost to atmospheric corrosion resistance.

• Low Distortion: Since nitriding occurs at lower temperatures (approx. 500°C–540°C) than carburizing, the risk of part warping or dimensional change is much lower.

4. Global Equivalents

CSN 14341 is equivalent to the high-performance nitriding steels used in Germany and across Europe.

5. Common Applications

This steel is chosen for precision parts where dimensional stability and extreme surface hardness are non-negotiable:

• Extrusion Machinery: Plastic extrusion screws and barrels.

• Engine Parts: High-performance cylinder liners, valve stems, and camshafts.

• Precision Gears: Small, high-speed gears that must not deform during heat treatment.

• Injection Molding: Nozzles and gates for abrasive plastic resins.

• Pumps: High-pressure pistons and plungers.

Available Forms

• Round Bars: Usually stocked in sizes from 20mm to 250mm.

• Finish: Often supplied in the Quenched and Tempered (+QT) condition, so you only need to perform the final machining and the low-temperature nitriding cycle.

• Rod/Wire: Used for smaller precision pins and shafts.