EN 2448:2008

Overview

EN 2448:2008 is a European standard developed by CEN that specifies the technical requirements for aerospace-grade steel bars identified as FE-PL1503 (equivalent to 35CrMo4). These steel bars feature a tensile strength (Rm) ranging between 900 MPa and 1,100 MPa and have a maximum diameter (De) of 40 mm. This standard ensures the consistent quality and performance of steel bars used specifically in aerospace applications, meeting strict criteria for mechanical properties, chemical composition, heat treatment, and testing methods.

Key highlights of EN 2448:2008 include the regulation of steel composition, heat treatment specifics such as hardening and tempering, and specifications covering durability, strength, and dimensional control. It is part of the aerospace metallic materials series aligned with general aerospace standardization rules defined in EN 4258 and EN 4500-5.

Key Topics

• Material Specification

  • Steel Type: FE-PL1503 (35CrMo4)
  • Chemical Composition Limits: Carbon (0.30–0.37%), Silicon, Manganese, Chromium, Molybdenum, Nickel within specified maximum values
  • Method of production: Air melted steel bars

• Mechanical Properties

  • Tensile Strength (Rm): 900 MPa to 1,100 MPa
  • Proof Stress (Rp0.2): Minimum 750 MPa
  • Elongation: Minimum 12% for softened condition; minimum 10% for hardened and tempered condition
  • Hardness: Specified ranges in HB and HV depending on treatment and bar diameter

• Dimensions and Form

  • Bar Diameter (De): ≤ 40 mm
  • Delivery Conditions: Softened or hardened and tempered
  • Heat Treatment: Hardening at 840–860 °C followed by oil quenching and tempering at ≥ 570 °C

• Testing and Inspection

  • Heat treatment verification through hardness and tensile tests
  • Marking and dimensional inspections conforming to EN 4700-2
  • Optional qualification testing under EN 9133 quality management procedures
  • Reference Jominy hardness testing for hardenability measurement

Applications

EN 2448:2008-certified FE-PL1503 steel bars are optimized for critical aerospace components where high strength, toughness, and reliability are mandatory. Typical applications include:

• Aircraft structural parts requiring enhanced mechanical properties
• Aerospace fittings and assemblies exposed to cyclic loads
• Engine and landing gear components where fatigue resistance is vital
• Components needing precise dimensions and consistent heat treatment quality

This standard is crucial for aerospace manufacturers, suppliers, and quality assurance teams focused on ensuring material compliance and performance reliability in demanding aerospace environments.

Related Standards

• EN 4258 – Aerospace series metallic materials - General organization of standardization
• EN 4500-5 – Aerospace series metallic materials - Rules for drafting and presentation of material standards (specific for steels)
• EN 4700-2 – Aerospace series - Steel and heat-resisting alloys - Technical specification for wrought bars and sections
• EN 9133 – Aerospace series - Quality management systems - Qualification procedure for aerospace standard parts

By adhering to EN 2448:2008 alongside these complementary standards, aerospace industry stakeholders can ensure cohesive material specifications, standardized quality assurance, and uniform documentation practices across aerospace manufacturing and supply chains.

Keywords: EN 2448:2008, FE-PL1503 steel, 35CrMo4, aerospace steel bars, tensile strength 900-1100 MPa, aviation materials standard, aerospace steel bars diameter ≤ 40 mm, aerospace material specifications, steel heat treatment aerospace, European aerospace standards, aerospace quality management, aircraft steel components.