4130 Chrome-Moly Availability

[GeneWeber]

Hi Folks,

I’ve heard that 4130 chrome-moly is no longer produced in the US, and China is now the primary source. Supposedly China is only supplying annealed 4130, and normalized is becoming quite scarce. Someone I know just purchased a 4’ length of 5/8” square tube (I think 5/8”, definitely 4’ and square) and paid over $60 for it. This used to be under $10. My understanding is that normalized 4130 is required for aircraft construction. This is going to really impact the price of planes that are welded steel construction.

Has anyone else heard of this situation? Do you know of any new sources for normalized 4130?

Thanks & Regards,

Gene

[Mike Hook]

I don't know if that is true or not but I was also getting ready to look for a good source of 4130 normalized. Guess it may be a real hunt.

Mike

[Chuck Irby]

Gene, I recently bought some from Wicks at the normal price.

[RHerron]

Haven't had any trouble getting 4130...yet.

Ron

[GeneWeber]

Hi Folks,

I have some more information on this.

First, the person was accidentally overcharged for that 5/8” square. The corrected price was $32, instead of over $60. That is still a substantial price increase.

I also was told that the sheet and square tubing has gone up first because the remaining stock of those is lower than round tube. While round tube has not gone up much yet, there is no manufacturer, and when supplies get low the price will no doubt rise. Unless of course a new manufacturer of normalized 4130 is found in the mean time.

I’m just passing this on so folks planning to build planes that require a lot of 4130 can look into it for themselves and act accordingly.

Best Regards,

Gene

[Chuck Irby]

Gene, from whom was the 4130 purchased?

[GeneWeber]

Hi Chuck,

It was purchased from Aircraft Spruce.

Regards,

Gene

[Chuck Irby]

Thanx Gene!

[beatricezhu]

We can supply 4130, normalized. We are manufacturer from China.
If you are interested in our products, feel free to contact me.
steel.group@hotmail.com