Hardox® 400 is a 400 HBW abrasion-resistant steel plate developed by SSAB Oxelösund that delivers unmatched longevity in high-wear industrial applications. As a premier global supplier, we at MWalloys validate its consistent performance across mining, construction, and material handling sectors—extending equipment lifespan by 3–5 times compared to standard carbon steel.
What is Hardox 400 Material?
Hardox 400 belongs to the family of quenched wear steels produced through rapid water quenching. This process generates a uniform microstructure of fine-grained martensite with dispersed chromium carbides, achieving surface hardness of 370–430 HBW without compromising toughness28. Unlike cast iron or composite overlays, it retains full structural integrity under high-impact loads—making it suitable for load-bearing components like dump truck beds and excavator buckets
What is the Chemical Composition of Hardox 400?
Understanding the precise chemical composition enables proper welding procedures and heat treatment protocols. The carefully balanced alloy system contributes to both hardness and weldability characteristics.
| Element | Composition Range (%) | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.14-0.20 | Primary hardening element |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.10-0.50 | Deoxidizer and strength enhancement |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.70-1.50 | Hardenability and strength |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤0.025 | Controlled for weldability |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤0.010 | Minimized for formability |
| Chromium (Cr) | 0.25-1.50 | Hardenability and wear resistance |
| Nickel (Ni) | ≤1.50 | Toughness enhancement |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | ≤0.60 | Strength and temper resistance |
| Boron (B) | ≤0.005 | Hardenability multiplier |
The low carbon content ensures excellent weldability without preheating requirements in most applications. Chromium contributes significantly to wear resistance while maintaining reasonable costs compared to higher-alloy alternatives.
What are the Mechanical Properties of Hardox 400?
Mechanical properties determine the material's suitability for specific applications and loading conditions. These values represent typical performance under standard testing conditions.
| Property | Value | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 370-430 HBW | ISO 6506-1 |
| Tensile Strength | 1180-1350 MPa | ISO 6892-1 |
| Yield Strength | ≥1000 MPa | ISO 6892-1 |
| Elongation | ≥7% | ISO 6892-1 |
| Impact Toughness (20°C) | ≥25 J | ISO 148-1 |
| Impact Toughness (-40°C) | ≥15 J | ISO 148-1 |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ | Standard steel density |
The high strength-to-weight ratio makes Hardox 400 particularly attractive for mobile equipment manufacturers. Impact toughness values ensure reliable performance in dynamic loading situations common in earthmoving applications.
What is the Specification of Hardox 400?
Technical specifications define the manufacturing standards and quality requirements for consistent product delivery. These parameters ensure compatibility across different suppliers and applications.
| Specification | Details | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness Range | 4-80 mm | SSAB standard |
| Width | Up to 3150 mm | Production capability |
| Length | Up to 12000 mm | Standard lengths |
| Flatness Tolerance | ±3 mm/m | EN 10029 Class N |
| Thickness Tolerance | ±0.3 mm | EN 10029 |
| Surface Quality | Shot blasted Sa2.5 | ISO 8501-1 |
| Edge Condition | Mill edge or cut edge | Customer specification |
| Delivery Condition | Quenched and tempered | Heat treated |
Surface preparation to Sa2.5 standard ensures optimal coating adhesion for painted applications. Flatness tolerances meet structural fabrication requirements without additional processing.
What does Hardox 400 Stand for?
The designation "Hardox 400" follows SSAB's systematic naming convention where "Hardox" represents the wear-resistant steel brand and "400" indicates the nominal hardness level in Brinell units. This transparent naming system allows engineers to select appropriate grades based on application requirements.
The "400" specifically refers to the target hardness range of 370-430 HBW, providing a clear performance indicator. This standardization simplifies material selection and ensures consistent performance expectations across global markets.
We find this nomenclature particularly helpful when discussing alternatives with clients, as the hardness correlation directly relates to wear performance in many applications.
What is the Equivalent of Hardox 400?
Several manufacturers produce comparable abrasion-resistant steels with similar hardness levels and chemical compositions. Understanding equivalents helps with sourcing flexibility and cost optimization.
Common equivalents include:
- Dillidur 400 (Dillinger): German-produced alternative with similar properties
- Creusabro 4800 (ArcelorMittal): European option with comparable wear resistance
- Abrazo 400 (Nucor): North American alternative for domestic projects
- XAR 400 (ThyssenKrupp): European equivalent with established track record
- Raex 400 (Ruukki/SSAB): Alternative designation for similar material
While these materials share similar hardness ranges, subtle differences in chemistry and processing may affect specific application performance. We recommend validation testing for critical applications when substituting equivalent grades.
What is the Difference between Hardox 400, 450 and 500?
The primary distinctions relate to hardness levels, which directly influence wear resistance and forming characteristics. Higher hardness grades offer enhanced wear life but present increased forming challenges.
| Grade | Hardness (HBW) | Typical Thickness | Primary Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardox 400 | 370-430 | 4-80 mm | General wear applications, formable |
| Hardox 450 | 425-475 | 4-65 mm | Moderate wear, good formability |
| Hardox 500 | 470-530 | 4-50 mm | Severe wear, limited forming |
Hardox 400 offers the best balance between wear resistance and fabrication ease, making it suitable for complex formed components. The lower hardness facilitates cold forming operations while still providing substantial wear life improvements over conventional steels.
Hardox 450 bridges the gap between formability and wear resistance, often selected for applications requiring moderate forming with enhanced durability. Hardox 500 maximizes wear life but requires careful handling during fabrication due to increased brittleness.
What is a Hardox 400 Used for?
Applications span multiple industries where abrasive wear represents the primary failure mechanism. The material's versatility stems from its balanced properties and processing characteristics.
Mining Industry Applications:
- Dump truck bodies and liners
- Crusher components and liners
- Conveyor system components
- Chute liners and wear plates
- Screening equipment panels
Construction Equipment:
- Excavator buckets and cutting edges
- Bulldozer blades and end bits
- Loader bucket liners and floors
- Grader blades and wear strips
Industrial Applications:
- Material handling equipment
- Recycling machinery components
- Agricultural implement wear parts
- Cement industry equipment
- Power generation ash handling
The marine industry increasingly specifies Hardox 400 for dredging equipment and offshore construction tools where saltwater corrosion combines with abrasive wear challenges.
What is the Classification of Hardox 400?
Technical classification systems provide standardized references for material properties and applications. Understanding these classifications ensures proper material specification and quality verification.
| Classification System | Designation | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| EN 10025-2 | S355 equivalent | European structural standard |
| ASTM A514 | Grade B equivalent | American high-strength standard |
| JIS G3106 | SM570 similar | Japanese structural standard |
| ISO 630 | E355 comparable | International structural standard |
| AWS D1.1 | Weldable steel | American welding standard |
| API 2W | Grade 50 similar | Offshore structural standard |
While not directly equivalent to structural grades, these classifications provide reference points for strength and weldability characteristics. The material exceeds most structural steel requirements while adding superior wear resistance.
What is Hardox Grade?
Hardox represents SSAB's complete family of abrasion-resistant steels, ranging from 400 to 600 HBW hardness levels. Each grade targets specific application requirements balancing wear resistance, toughness, and formability.
The grading system progression includes:
- Hardox 400: Excellent formability with good wear resistance.
- Hardox 450: Enhanced wear resistance maintaining formability.
- Hardox 500: High wear resistance for severe applications.
- Hardox 550: Extreme wear resistance with limited forming.
- Hardox 600: Maximum wear resistance for stationary applications.
We typically recommend starting with Hardox 400 for new applications, then upgrading to higher grades only when wear testing demonstrates insufficient service life. This approach optimizes both performance and processing costs.
Is Hardox Heavier than Steel?
Hardox 400 maintains the same density as conventional carbon steel at approximately 7.85 g/cm³. The weight advantage comes from using thinner sections to achieve equivalent or superior performance compared to thicker mild steel alternatives.
Weight savings typically range from 20-40% when replacing conventional steel plates of equivalent service life. This reduction stems from the material's superior wear resistance allowing thinner gauge applications while maintaining durability.
For mobile equipment, weight reduction directly translates to increased payload capacity and reduced fuel consumption. We have documented cases where 15mm Hardox 400 outperformed 25mm mild steel in dump truck applications, resulting in 2-ton payload increases.
Hardox 400 Steel Wear Plate Global Market Prices 2025
Current market pricing reflects global steel market dynamics, raw material costs, and regional demand patterns. Prices vary significantly based on thickness, quantity, and delivery requirements.
| Region | Price Range (USD/MT) | Delivery Terms | Market Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Europe | 1,850-2,100 | Ex-works | Direct from SSAB |
| North America | 1,950-2,250 | FOB port | Including logistics |
| Asia Pacific | 1,750-2,050 | CIF major ports | Competitive regional market |
| Middle East | 1,900-2,200 | CIF port | Project-driven demand |
| South America | 2,000-2,300 | CIF port | Limited local production |
| Africa | 1,950-2,250 | CIF port | Infrastructure development |
Pricing trends show stabilization following 2024 volatility, with moderate increases expected due to raw material inflation. Long-term contracts often provide 5-10% discounts compared to spot pricing.
Hardox 400 Steel Wear Plate Sizes and Weight Parameters
Standard sizing options accommodate most fabrication requirements while optimizing material utilization and transportation efficiency.
| Thickness (mm) | Width (mm) | Length (mm) | Weight (kg/m²) | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 1500-2000 | 6000-8000 | 31.4 | Light wear applications |
| 6 | 1500-2500 | 6000-10000 | 47.1 | General fabrication |
| 8 | 1500-2500 | 6000-12000 | 62.8 | Standard wear plates |
| 10 | 1500-2500 | 6000-12000 | 78.5 | Medium duty applications |
| 12 | 1500-3000 | 6000-12000 | 94.2 | Heavy duty liners |
| 15 | 1500-3000 | 6000-12000 | 117.8 | Severe wear zones |
| 20 | 1500-3000 | 6000-12000 | 157.0 | Maximum thickness standard |
Custom sizing available for specific applications, though minimum order quantities typically apply. Plasma and laser cutting services provide precise dimensional tolerances for finished components.
Advantages of Hardox 400 Steel Wear Plate
Multiple performance advantages make Hardox 400 the preferred choice for demanding wear applications across various industries.
Superior Wear Resistance: Laboratory testing demonstrates 3-5 times longer service life compared to conventional structural steels in abrasive environments. This translates directly to reduced maintenance costs and increased equipment availability.
Excellent Weldability: Low carbon equivalent values enable welding without preheating in most applications. Standard electrodes work effectively, reducing specialty consumable requirements and simplifying fabrication procedures.
Good Formability: The material accepts moderate cold forming operations, allowing curved surfaces and complex geometries. This capability eliminates expensive hot forming processes for many applications.
Consistent Quality: Through-hardening ensures uniform properties throughout the plate thickness. Machining operations don't compromise performance, unlike surface-hardened alternatives.
Weight Optimization: Higher strength allows thinner sections while maintaining structural integrity. This advantage proves particularly valuable in mobile equipment applications where payload matters.
Temperature Performance: Maintains toughness at sub-zero temperatures, essential for Arctic mining operations and winter construction activities.
Manufacturing Process of Hardox 400
The production process combines controlled chemistry with precise heat treatment to achieve the desired microstructure and properties. Understanding manufacturing steps helps optimize application design and fabrication procedures.
Steel Making: Electric arc furnace melting ensures precise chemistry control and cleanliness. Secondary refining removes impurities and adjusts final composition within narrow tolerances.
Continuous Casting: Modern casting technology produces homogeneous billets with minimal segregation. Controlled cooling prevents internal stresses that could affect subsequent processing.
Hot Rolling: Multi-pass rolling achieves final thickness while developing grain structure. Temperature control during rolling influences final mechanical properties and surface quality.
Heat Treatment: Quenching and tempering operations develop the martensitic microstructure responsible for high hardness. Precise temperature and time controls ensure consistent properties throughout each plate.
Quality Control: Comprehensive testing includes chemistry verification, hardness mapping, and mechanical property validation. Non-destructive testing ensures internal soundness and surface quality.
Surface Preparation: Shot blasting removes scale and provides uniform surface texture for optimal coating adhesion. This step proves critical for painted applications.
Oman Mining Project Case Study
A major copper mining operation in Oman faced premature failure of dump truck body liners manufactured from conventional mild steel. The harsh desert environment combined with abrasive ore created severe wear challenges affecting operational efficiency.
Project Requirements: Replace existing 20mm mild steel liners with improved wear-resistant solution. Maintain structural integrity while reducing maintenance frequency and associated downtime costs.
Solution Implementation: We supplied 15mm Hardox 400 plates cut to precise specifications for 25 dump trucks. The thinner gauge reduced vehicle weight while providing superior wear resistance compared to the original mild steel installation.
Installation Process: Local fabricators welded the plates using standard procedures with AWS E7018 electrodes. No preheating was required, simplifying field installation and reducing labor costs.
Performance Results: After 18 months of operation, wear measurements showed less than 3mm thickness reduction compared to 12mm loss experienced with mild steel over similar periods. This performance improvement translated to 4x service life extension.
Economic Benefits: Total cost savings exceeded USD 180,000 per truck considering reduced material costs, extended service intervals, and decreased maintenance downtime. The project demonstrated clear return on investment within the first year.
Lessons Learned: Proper material selection and fabrication techniques significantly impact long-term operating costs. The weight reduction also improved fuel efficiency and increased payload capacity, providing additional operational benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can Hardox 400 be welded without preheating?
Most applications don't require preheating due to the low carbon equivalent. However, thick sections (>25mm), low ambient temperatures (<0°C), or high restraint conditions may benefit from 100-150°C preheat to prevent hydrogen cracking.
Q2: What cutting methods work best for Hardox 400?
Plasma cutting provides excellent results for thicknesses up to 50mm with minimal heat-affected zone. Laser cutting offers superior precision for thinner sections, while oxy-fuel cutting works for thick plates but requires post-cut grinding for smooth edges.
Q3: How should Hardox 400 be stored to prevent corrosion?
Store plates in dry, ventilated areas with adequate support to prevent distortion. While the material doesn't require special corrosion protection, coating with rust preventive oil extends storage life in humid environments.
Q4: Can Hardox 400 be heat treated after fabrication?
Post-fabrication heat treatment isn't recommended as it may reduce hardness and alter mechanical properties. If stress relief is necessary, limit temperatures to 580°C maximum and ensure controlled cooling to prevent property degradation.
Q5: What welding consumables are recommended for Hardox 400?
AWS E7018 or E8018 electrodes provide excellent results for manual welding. For automatic processes, ER70S-6 or similar low-hydrogen consumables ensure good mechanical properties and crack resistance in the weld zone.
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