EN16 is a manganese-molybdenum alloy steel usually supplied hardened and tempered. It is tougher and stronger than EN8 and is used for shafts, axles, gears, connecting rods and high-tensile bolts that carry medium to high loads. It is cheaper than nickel-chromium steels such as EN24.
Quick facts
- Type
- Manganese-molybdenum alloy steel
- Carbon
- About 0.32–0.40%
- Supply
- Usually hardened and tempered (R or T condition)
- Tensile strength
- About 700–1000 MPa, by condition
- Machinability
- Fair in the hardened and tempered condition
- Weldability
- Needs preheat; avoid welding where possible
Equivalent grades
| Standard | Grade |
|---|---|
| Old BS 970 | EN16 |
| BS 970 | 605M36 |
| IS 1570 | 35Mn6Mo3 (close) |
| EN / DIN | 36Mn6Mo (close) |
Equivalents are close, not identical. Name the grade and standard on the drawing.
Typical chemical composition
| Element | % |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | About 0.32–0.40 |
| Manganese (Mn) | About 1.3–1.7 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | About 0.22–0.32 |
| Silicon (Si) | About 0.1–0.35 |
Values are typical. The exact limits depend on the standard and supplier; ask for the mill test certificate when it matters.
Strength by condition
| Condition | Tensile strength | Hardness (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| R | About 700–850 MPa | About 200–250 HB |
| S | About 775–925 MPa | About 225–275 HB |
| T | About 850–1000 MPa | About 250–300 HB |
Values are typical. The exact limits depend on the standard and supplier; ask for the mill test certificate when it matters.
Typical uses
- Shafts and axles
- Gears and pinions for medium loads
- Connecting rods and levers
- High-tensile bolts and studs
- Crankshafts for small engines and compressors
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Questions
- Is EN16 stronger than EN8?
- Yes. Hardened and tempered EN16 typically reaches about 700–1000 MPa against roughly 550–700 MPa for EN8, with better toughness.
- EN16 or EN19?
- EN19 (chromium-molybdenum) hardens deeper and reaches higher strength, so it suits heavier sections and loads. EN16 costs less and is enough for many medium-duty shafts and gears.
- Can EN16 be welded?
- It can, with preheat and controlled cooling, but welding hardened and tempered EN16 lowers its strength near the weld. Design to avoid welding where possible.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 18 October 2026.