I ordered some 12L14 steel for making tools and fixtures etc, and was wondering if it would be any good for cannons.
I'm not sure how to interpret the properties but it says it's "generally" stronger than 1018.
Here.It's from
Laurel Steel, Cutter's Choice.12L14 free machining steel
This alloy has lead added to the mix in order to enhance its machinability. In fact, it is rated with a machinability of 160% of AISI 1212 steel. The addition of lead does, however, reduce the strength of this alloy, although it is generally stronger than 1018.
12L14 free machining steel
Minimum Properties Ultimate Tensile Strength, psi 78,300
Yield Strength, psi 60,200
Elongation 10.0%
Rockwell Hardness B84
Chemistry Iron (Fe) 97.91 - 98.7%
Carbon (C) 0.15% max
Manganese (Mn) 0.85 - 1.15%
Phosphorus (P) 0.04 - 0.09%
Lead (Pb) 0.15 - 0.35%
Sulfur (S) 0.26 - 0.35%
Any thoughts on the matter?