51CrV4 (1.8159) – Strong and resilient chromium-vanadium steel

The steel grade 1.8159 (51CrV4) is one of the most widely used chromium-vanadium alloys in European industry. The material is known for its excellent combination of strength, toughness, wear resistance and high yield strength. It is precisely this high yield strength that enables 51CrV4 to deliver significant spring characteristics without permanent deformation. This makes the material ideal for components that need to be able to deform elastically and function under dynamic loads for long periods.

The addition of chromium provides improved hardenability and wear resistance, whilst vanadium contributes to a fine microstructure and higher fatigue resistance. Combined with the correct heat treatment, this results in a steel grade that is both strong and resilient. This makes 51CrV4 particularly suitable for applications such as springs, torsion bars, shafts, valve springs, bolts, gears and other heavily loaded machine components. It is a trusted choice, particularly in the automotive, agricultural and mechanical engineering sectors, due to its reliability under alternating loads.

A key advantage of 51CrV4 is that the material can store a great deal of energy and release it in a controlled manner without plastic deformation. This is essential for spring and shock-absorbing systems, where durability and consistent performance are paramount. The high fatigue strength ensures that components retain their function even after millions of load cycles. With its strong spring properties

GNS is responding to the growing demand for high-quality structural steels and offers a wide range of bar and plate material in 51CrV4, available in annealed (+A) or quenched and tempered (+QT) grades. Always of consistent – European – quality.

Interested in what we can offer? Click here to submit your enquiry or call us on +31 40 368 22 70.

Mechanical properties

In quenched and tempered condition (+QT)

• Tensile strength Rm: 800–1300 N/mm² (depending on diameter).
• Yield strength Rp0.2: 600–900 N/mm² (depending on diameter).
• Elongation at break A5: 9–13% (depending on diameter).
• Impact strength (Charpy V-notch): ≥ 30 J tested at approx. 20°C.

In annealed condition (+A)

• Hardness: ≤ 248 HB (~Rm 800 N/mm²).

Despite the care taken in compiling the above article, we do not guarantee its accuracy.