Steel 1.4116 (X50CrMoV15, 420MoV, 50Х14МФ, 5Cr15MoV): Properties, Applications, and Composition

Steel 1.4116 (also known as 4116, X50CrMoV15, 420MoV, 50Х14МФ, 5Cr15MoV) is a popular stainless steel developed by the German company Thyssen Krupp. Known for its excellent corrosion resistance, it is widely used both in knife production and in various industrial applications. Products made from this steel are used in fields such as pins, shafts, nozzles, wear-resistant parts, and other high-stress applications. It has also gained popularity among knife manufacturers due to its balanced properties and is frequently used by brands like Henckels and Wusthof.

The key characteristic of 1.4116 steel is its excellent corrosion resistance, which allows knives and other items made from this material to last in humid conditions. Edge retention is adequate, though it often depends on usage conditions. The hardness of knives made from this steel is around 54–56 HRC, which is considered average. However, with specific heat treatments, a higher hardness could be achieved, as the steel's structure allows for it.

Chemical Composition of 1.4116 Steel

Element Content (%)
Carbon (C) 0.45–0.55
Chromium (Cr) 14–15
Manganese (Mn) 1