Why is EN1A called free-cutting steel?

The added sulphur (and lead in the leaded grade) makes chips break into small pieces and lets tools cut faster and last longer, so turned parts cost less.

It is not recommended: the sulphur and lead cause cracking in the weld. Use a mild steel such as IS 2062 for welded parts.

Can EN1A be hardened?

Only a light case hardening is practical. For parts that need strength or through-hardening, use EN8, EN19 or a case-hardening steel.

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EN1A free-cutting steel

Also called: 230M07, 11SMn30, 11SMnPb30, AISI 1215, 12L14, free cutting steel, EN1A leaded

EN1A (230M07) is a low-carbon steel with added sulphur (and lead in the leaded version) so that it cuts very fast with short, broken chips. It is the standard choice for high-volume turned parts on automats where strength is not critical.

Quick facts

Type: Low-carbon free-cutting (resulphurised) steel
Key additions: About 0.3% sulphur; lead in EN1A Pb
Machinability: Excellent: the reference for fast turning
Strength: Low to moderate (about 360–500 MPa)
Heat treatment: Can be case-hardened lightly; not for through-hardening
Weldability: Poor (sulphur and lead cause cracking)

Equivalent grades

Standard	Closest grade
BS 970 (old / current)	EN1A / 230M07 (leaded: 230M07Pb)
DIN / EN 10087	11SMn30 (1.0715); leaded 11SMnPb30 (1.0718)
AISI / SAE	1215; leaded 12L14
JIS	SUM23; leaded SUM24L

Typical chemical composition (230M07)

Element	%
Carbon (C)	0.15 max
Manganese (Mn)	0.90–1.30
Sulphur (S)	0.25–0.35
Phosphorus (P)	0.07 max
Lead (Pb), leaded grade	About 0.15–0.35

When to use it, and when not

Use it for turned parts made in large numbers: fittings, screws, spacers, pins, bushes, union nuts
It is cheaper per part because machines run faster and tools last longer
Do not use it for highly stressed parts, parts that will be welded, or parts that need through-hardening: choose EN8 or an alloy steel
Plating (zinc, nickel) works well on it

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Related job work

CNC turning

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Materials

Questions

Why is EN1A called free-cutting steel?: The added sulphur (and lead in the leaded grade) makes chips break into small pieces and lets tools cut faster and last longer, so turned parts cost less.
Can EN1A be welded?: It is not recommended: the sulphur and lead cause cracking in the weld. Use a mild steel such as IS 2062 for welded parts.
Can EN1A be hardened?: Only a light case hardening is practical. For parts that need strength or through-hardening, use EN8, EN19 or a case-hardening steel.

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 8 October 2026.