Common Buyer Confusion: Are X120Mn12 and ASTM A128 the Same?
If you’re sourcing high manganese steel plates or crusher liner materials, you’ve probably come across both ASTM A128 and X120Mn12 (1.3401).
Many buyers ask: “Are they the same grade?”
The answer is: Mostly yes — but with slight differences depending on use case and standardization.
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
Composition: Nearly Identical, Minor Variations
Both ASTM A128 and DIN X120Mn12 / EN 1.3401 are grades of high-manganese austenitic steel, often referred to as Hadfield steel. They are designed to offer exceptional work hardening, high impact resistance, and non-magnetic behavior.
| Property | ASTM A128 | X120Mn12 / 1.3401 |
|---|---|---|
| Manganese Content | 11–14% | 11–14% |
| Carbon Content | ~1.0–1.4% | ~1.0–1.4% |
| Yield Strength | ~350 MPa (varies) | ~350 MPa (varies) |
| Tensile Strength | 850–1350 MPa | 850–1350 MPa |
| Microstructure | Fully austenitic | Fully austenitic |
| Common Usage | American/ASTM projects | DIN/European projects |
In practical use — they’re interchangeable for most wear applications like crusher liners, hoppers, shot blast linings, and more.
Regional Standardization
- X120Mn12 (EN/DIN 1.3401) is a European designation, often used in projects governed by DIN or EN standards.
- ASTM A128 (Grade A, B2, etc.) is common in American, Indian, or ASTM-spec projects.
Some global buyers request Creusabro M, Z120M12, or Mn13, which are essentially alternate brand names or variants with minor processing differences.
Where Buyers Get Stuck (And How to Avoid It)
Mistake: Assuming they’re different and overpaying for a specific standard
Solution: Always confirm the application need. Crusher plates, liners, hoppers, rail crossings, and lockers don’t need two separate grades unless your spec demands it.
Our team at Hindustan Steel Corporation helps buyers switch to Indian equivalents with 100% performance match and better cost efficiency.
OEMs That Commonly Use These Grades
- Mining equipment manufacturers
- Power plant OEMs
- Cement plant contractors
- EPCs for steel handling
- Defense contractors
- Quarry machinery producers
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We Help You Choose Based on:
- Region-specific specs (ASTM / EN / BIS)
- Target application (abrasion, deformation, etc.)
- Cut-to-size requirement
- Budget and inventory availability
- Certification and documentation
FAQs
1. Are X120Mn12 and ASTM A128 the same?
Yes, X120Mn12 and ASTM A128 are functionally the same in most applications. They both refer to high-manganese austenitic steel with 11–14% Mn content, used for impact- and wear-resistant components like crusher liners.
2. What is the difference between DIN 1.3401 and ASTM A128?
The main difference lies in the standard body: DIN 1.3401 (also known as X120Mn12) follows European norms, while ASTM A128 follows American standards. Composition and mechanical properties are nearly identical.
3. Which is better: ASTM A128 or X120Mn12?
Neither is better — both are equivalent in performance. Choose ASTM A128 if your project follows ASTM/ASME codes, and X120Mn12 if it’s based on EN or DIN specifications
4. Is 1.3401 equivalent to Hadfield steel?
Yes, DIN 1.3401 is a modern standard for Hadfield steel — originally invented by Robert Hadfield. It is a high-manganese austenitic steel with superior toughness and wear resistance.
5. Can I use X120Mn12 for crusher liners instead of ASTM A128?
Absolutely. X120Mn12 is widely used for crusher liners, just like ASTM A128. As long as the chemical composition and hardness fall within spec, they can be used interchangeably in crushing equipment.
Not Sure Which One You Need?
We’ve helped 100+ OEMs switch from imported X120Mn12 to Indian-made ASTM A128 without compromising performance.
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