EN1A PB
EN1A PB Leaded Free Cutting Bright Bar
Lead-added EN1A — the fastest machining grade we produce.
Also known as PB · 12L14 · 230M07Pb · 9SMnPb28
Overview
What EN1A PB is, and where it belongs
EN1A PB is EN1A with lead deliberately added at 0.15–0.35%. The "PB" is simply the chemical symbol for lead. In our system and across much of the trade the same steel is also called 12L14.
Lead is insoluble in steel, so it sits as fine discrete particles through the bar. At the cutting zone the heat of machining softens and smears those particles, forming a microscopic lubricating film exactly where the chip slides across the tool face. The sulphide inclusions of EN1A break the chip; the lead reduces the friction of removing it. The two mechanisms work together.
On high-speed multi-spindle automatics the effect is measurable in parts per hour, tool changes per shift and finish off the tool. Where a shop is running lights-out production of small turned components, EN1A PB is normally the correct specification even though the bar costs more than plain EN1A — the machining time saved is worth more than the material premium.
One limitation to plan for: leaded steel should not be welded, and the fume from welding or flame cutting it requires proper extraction.
Chemistry
Chemical composition
As per BS 970 : 230M07Pb / AISI 12L14, certified per mill test certificate. Values are percentage by weight.
| Element | Symbol | Min % | Max % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon | C | 0.070 | 0.150 |
| Silicon | Si | — | 0.100 |
| Manganese | Mn | 0.800 | 1.200 |
| Phosphorus | P | — | 0.070 |
| Sulphur | S | 0.200 | 0.300 |
| Lead | Pb | 0.150 | 0.350 |
A dash in the minimum column means only an upper limit applies to that element.
Properties
Mechanical properties
Typical values in the Cold Drawn condition. Certified values for your consignment appear on the test certificate.
- Tensile Strength
- 480 – 600 MPa
- Yield Strength
- 380 – 450 MPa
- Elongation (A5)
- 7 – 12%
- Hardness
- 140 – 190 HB
Availability
Sizes and tolerances
We draw EN1A PB across the range below. Exact availability for a given size is confirmed on enquiry.
Round bar
5.5 – 60 mm
Nominal diameter
Hex bar
6 – 46 mm
Across flats (AF)
Tolerance bands
All bands are ISO 286 ‘h’ — the bar is never above nominal size. See exact values for your size.
Where it is used
Typical applications
- High-speed multi-spindle automatic turning
- Precision fasteners and small screws
- Electrical and electronic connector pins
- Hydraulic and pneumatic fittings
- Any high-volume part where cycle time dominates cost
Application guides
Cross reference
International equivalents
Nearest designations under other standards. Equivalents are close but rarely identical — check the specific requirement that matters for your part.
Full equivalents chart| Standard | Designation |
|---|---|
| BS (UK) | 230M07Pb / EN1A Pb |
| AISI / SAE (USA) | 12L14 |
| DIN (Germany) | 9SMnPb28 / 1.0718 |
| JIS (Japan) | SUM24L |
| IS (India) | 11S22Pb |
Index relative to AISI 1212 = 100. Higher is faster to machine.
The highest machinability index in our range — roughly 45–60% above EN1A. Permits the highest cutting speeds with excellent finish and minimal built-up edge. Not weldable; ensure fume extraction if any thermal cutting is done.
Weldability: Not recommended
Related grades
Chemical composition and mechanical properties shown are as per the applicable standard and are indicative. Actual values for your consignment are certified in the Mill Test Certificate supplied with each dispatch. Available sizes and tolerances are confirmed at the time of enquiry.
Need EN1A PB?
Send us the size and quantity — Round 5.5–60 mm · Hex 6–46 mm. We will confirm availability and come back with a price.