AR400 and AR500 are both abrasion-resistant steels, but they differ in terms of hardness and intended applications. The "AR" in both designations stands for "abrasion resistant."
Hardness:
AR400: This type of steel has a hardness range of 360-440 BHN (Brinell Hardness Number). It is generally considered a good choice for applications where abrasion resistance is needed, but impact resistance is not a primary concern.
AR500: AR500 steel is harder than AR400, with a hardness range of 470-540 BHN. This increased hardness provides better resistance to wear and abrasion, making it suitable for more demanding applications where high impact resistance is required.
Applications:
AR400: Commonly used in applications where moderate wear resistance is needed, such as mining equipment, dump truck bodies, and material handling.
AR500: Suited for applications with higher levels of abrasion and potential impact, such as shooting targets, armored vehicles, and ballistic applications.
Impact Resistance:
AR400: While it offers good abrasion resistance, it may not perform as well in applications where high impact resistance is crucial.
AR500: With its higher hardness, AR500 steel provides better resistance to impact and is therefore more suitable for applications where both abrasion and impact resistance are important.
Its important to note that the choice between AR400 and AR500 depends on the specific requirements of the application. Considerations such as the type and severity of abrasion, potential impacts, and overall durability requirements should guide the selection process. Additionally, while these steels provide enhanced abrasion resistance, they are not suitable for all types of wear and may not be the best choice in highly corrosive environments.