wha type of steel is best for cannon barrels?? price??
rick bryan
n-ssa
There are two steels that I use, others are ok too.
First, 'mild steel' 1018 is low carbon (not as strong as high carbon) steel that is resiliant to cracking from repeated stress. Cheap, relatively. More carbon, more strength BUT more brittle. (Look at cast iron - LOTS of carbon, very brittle.)
Second is 4140 - an alloy steel, very strong (is used for rifle barrels). Tough to weld. 4130 (a little less carbon) is generally considered (with proper techniques) as weldable - 4140 can be but with very specific techniques and controls. Alloy steel cost more.
