Interpreting Steel Grade Codes: SAE, AISI, EN, and DIN Explained

Have you ever come across terms like EN24, SAE 4140, AISI D2, or DIN 2714 and wondered:

You’re not alone.

Steel grade codes can be confusing, especially when navigating between American, European, and international standards. At Goel Steel Enterprises, we help thousands of buyers and engineers decode these designations every year.

This blog simplifies the major steel naming systems — SAE, AISI, EN, and DIN — and how to interpret them correctly.

🛠️ Why Steel Codes Matter

Steel grade codes aren’t just random alphanumeric strings. They define the chemical composition, mechanical properties, and applications of the steel.

Understanding them helps you:

• ✅ Choose the right material for the job

• ✅ Cross-reference global grades

• ✅ Ensure consistency in procurement and manufacturing

• ✅ Avoid costly mistakes in heat treatment or machining

📘 1. SAE & AISI: American Steel Numbering System

🔹 What is SAE?

SAE stands for Society of Automotive Engineers. It classifies steels based on their chemical composition.

🔹 What is AISI?

AISI stands for American Iron and Steel Institute. It used to publish standards alongside SAE. Today, both systems are practically merged and referred to together as SAE-AISI.

🧪 Understanding SAE-AISI Codes (Example: 4140)

SAE 4140 or AISI 4140 means:

• 41 → Chromium-Molybdenum steel family

• 40 → 0.40% Carbon

So, 4140 is a Cr-Mo alloy steel with 0.40% carbon, used widely for shafts, gears, bolts, etc.

✅ Goel Steel Enterprises stocks this grade in its EN19 equivalent (more on that below).

📕 2. EN: European Standard (British-Indian Connection)

🔹 What is EN?

EN stands for European Norms. It's a unified naming system across Europe, but older British standards (BS970) are still common in India.

At Goel Steel Enterprises, we deal with popular EN grades like:

• EN8D (medium carbon steel)

• EN19 (4140 equivalent)

• EN24 (4340 equivalent)

• EN31 (bearing steel)

🧪 Understanding EN Codes

📌 EN19 (Old BS970: 709M40):

• 0.40% Carbon

• Chromium-Molybdenum alloy

• Equivalent to AISI 4140 / SAE 4140

📌 EN24 (Old BS970: 817M40):

• 0.40% Carbon, with Nickel-Chromium-Molybdenum

• Equivalent to AISI 4340

EN codes often vary slightly by region, so it’s best to ask for the composition or cross-reference.

📙 3. DIN: German Engineering Standard

🔹 What is DIN?

DIN stands for Deutsches Institut für Normung — the German standard body. DIN steel grades are precise and engineering-focused, widely used across Europe and Asia.

At Goel Steel Enterprises, we supply DIN grades such as:

• DIN 2714 → Hot work die steel (DB6 in Indian naming)

• DIN 1.2379 → Cold work tool steel (D2 equivalent)

• DIN 1.2344 → Hot work steel (H13 equivalent)

🧪 Understanding DIN Codes

📌 DIN 2714

• Chromium-Nickel-Molybdenum alloyed hot work tool steel

• Equivalent to DB6 / L6

📌 DIN 1.2344

• Tool steel with high hot strength

• Equivalent to AISI H13

📌 DIN 1.2379

• High carbon high chromium tool steel

• Equivalent to AISI D2

✅ These are core materials stocked and supplied by Goel Steel Enterprises with UT-tested, MTC-certified formats.

🔄 Cross-Referencing Different Systems

🚚 How Goel Steel Enterprises Simplifies It for You

We don’t just sell steel — we guide you to the right equivalent grade, whether you're referencing:

• AISI/SAE (US)

• EN (India/UK)

• DIN (Germany)

With real-time stock updates, MTC documents, heat treatment suggestions, and fast nationwide shipping, we take the confusion out of your procurement process.

🛒 Ready to Order?
🌐 www.goelsteelenterprises.com

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📞 Reach Us for Material Guidance or Supply

📞 Goel Steel Enterprises
📱 +91-9686477515
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.goelsteelenterprises.com

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