Leaded Steel
Free cutting steel with 0.15-0.35% lead added as fine dispersed particles that lubricate the tool tip and lift cutting speed by roughly a quarter.
Why it still gets specified
Lead does not dissolve in steel; it sits as discrete soft particles that smear at the cutting edge and reduce friction and built-up edge. On long automatic turning runs the benefit is measured in tool changes avoided, not just speed.
The restriction problem
RoHS and the EU End-of-Life Vehicles Directive restrict lead in electrical and automotive assemblies, with exemptions that have been narrowing. If the part ships into the EU, check the exemption status before specifying EN1A Pb or 12L14 — SAE 1215 and 11SMn37 are the unleaded alternatives.
Related terms
Where this applies
Free Cutting Bright Bars
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