Related Material — 65% match
based on chemical composition and mechanical property overlap.
ASTM A681 L6 (ASTM A681:2008) and BS 970 EN353 (BS 970:1955) are both steel grades.
ASTM A681 L6 is classified under Tool & Die Steels, while BS 970 EN353 is classified under Alloy Steel — a different category, which is worth noting alongside the chemistry match below.
ASTM A681 L6 is typically used for tools, dies and fixtures (clause 1.2), while BS 970 EN353 is commonly used for heavily loaded gears, cams, camshafts.
ASTM A681 L6 is defined under ASTM International, originating from United States, while BS 970 EN353 is defined under British Standards (BS), originating from United Kingdom.
As per chemical composition, ASTM A681 L6 vs BS 970 EN353 is a 68.2% match.
Mechanical property data is not available for both grades, so this factor could not be scored.
Combined, this makes them a related material overall at 65%.
Matched by chemical composition and mechanical properties, not a formal equivalence claim. Always verify against the applicable standard before substitution.
Mechanical Properties
Property
ASTM A681 L6
BS 970 EN353
Hardness
<=235 HB
Not specified
Condition
Annealed (maximum Brinell hardness)
core, min (lowest-strength condition of the standard)
Tensile Strength
Not specified
≥1004 MPa (65 tons/sq in, converted)
Elongation
Not specified
≥12%
Typical Applications
ASTM A681 L6
Tools, dies and fixtures (clause 1.2)
BS 970 EN353
Heavily loaded gears, cams, camshafts
Key Differences
Different category: ASTM A681 L6 is Tool & Die Steels, BS 970 EN353 is Alloy Steel.
Can ASTM A681 L6 Be Substituted With BS 970 EN353?
ASTM A681 L6 and BS 970 EN353 share some compositional similarity but differ enough that substitution should not be assumed. Review the differences above carefully, and consult the applicable standard or a metallurgist before using one in place of the other.
What is the difference between ASTM A681 L6 and BS 970 EN353?
Different category: ASTM A681 L6 is Tool & Die Steels, BS 970 EN353 is Alloy Steel.
Can ASTM A681 L6 be substituted with BS 970 EN353?
ASTM A681 L6 and BS 970 EN353 share some compositional similarity but differ enough that substitution should not be assumed. Review the differences above carefully, and consult the applicable standard or a metallurgist before using one in place of the other.