voestalpine Wire Technology develops free-cutting steel wire for applications that require good machinability, stable forming properties, and defined surface qualities. In addition to classic alloys, lead-free variants and materials from CO₂-reduced process steps are also available, depending on the respective production site and material concept.
The free-cutting steel wires are manufactured with tight tolerances and controlled surfaces and are suitable for process-reliable further processing steps such as turning, forming, or cold heading. Material concepts are coordinated in collaboration with users to take both technical and ecological requirements into account. Free-cutting steel wire is used in various industries, including fasteners in mechanical engineering, turned parts for consumer goods, and components such as spindles and cylinder pins in the automotive sector.
✔ From ore to wire
✔ 400+ steel alloys
✔ Own R&D facilities
✔ CO2 reduced processes
Applications of free-cutting steel wire
Customized wire solutions:
- individual wire development for special industry requirements
- prototypes & small series for research and industry
- material consulting for demanding projects
Technical details on free-cutting steel wire
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- Diameter range: 2.00 mm to 16.00 mm
- Tolerances: up to -0.020 mm or tolerance class h9
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We are specialists in customer-oriented wire production. Thanks to our in-house steel production facilities, we can manufacture special steel grades to meet specific customer requirements.
Your advantages with voestalpine Wire Technology
- Lead-free alloy concepts: Environmentally friendly alternatives such as bismuth or sulfur-manganese for optimal chip formation.
- Excellent machinability & formability: For maximum efficiency and minimal tool wear.
- High dimensional accuracy & surface quality: Ideal for precision turned parts and demanding applications.
- Customized material development: Alloys according to customer specifications - tailored to your processes.
- Reliable delivery performance: Flexible, punctual, and packaged with corrosion protection.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about machine wires
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Free-cutting steel wire is a special steel wire that is optimized for machining on automated turning and milling machines. It is characterized by good machinability, which is achieved through specific alloy additives such as sulfur or lead. This allows components to be manufactured efficiently and with high dimensional accuracy. Typical applications include the series production of precision parts for the automotive, electrical, and mechanical engineering industries.
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We offer lead-free solutions with bismuth or sulfur-manganese alloys – environmentally friendly and high-performance.
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It enables high strength combined with good toughness and improves formability – without any lead.
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They have a positive effect on chip length and breakage behavior and enable controlled chip formation during machining.
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In addition to classic additives such as sulfur and manganese, we also offer bismuth and other elements for the targeted optimization of machining properties.
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Yes - the trend is clearly moving toward lead-free materials, driven by environmental regulations, health considerations, and better recyclability.
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Through targeted material development and alloy additives tailored to the respective machining strategy.
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Corrosion-resistant packaging and flexible delivery options – even for sensitive materials.
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Standardized tests, complete traceability, and continuous process monitoring - mix-up tests are also possible.
Do you have a new project that requires free-cutting steel wire?
Our experts will be happy to advise you and find the right solution for your requirements!
