Bright Steel Bars for Shafts, Transmission Components & Hydraulic Systems
Bright steel bars form the backbone of precision shafts, power transmission assemblies, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, and electric motor components. Their dimensional accuracy, surface finish, straightness and controlled mechanical properties make them ideal for rotating, load-bearing and high-pressure applications.
Application Categories in This Group
This group covers the following major application categories. Select a category to view detailed components, grades and use-cases:
Components Manufactured Using Bright Bars
Explore key transmission, hydraulic and motor components manufactured using steel bright bars:
Note: These pages explain how bright steel bars are selected, processed and used to manufacture each component.
Why Bright Bars Are Essential for Shafts & Hydraulic Systems
- Superior surface finish for bearing fits and sliding motion
- Excellent straightness for high-speed rotation
- High tensile and yield strength for torque transmission
- Dimensional consistency for splines, keyways and precision machining
- Compatibility with induction hardening and case hardening
- Reduced machining time and lower tool wear
Shafts & Power Transmission Components
Bright bars are used to manufacture shafts that demand high fatigue strength, straightness and accurate tolerances. Applications range from small electric motor shafts to large industrial transmission assemblies.
Typical Components
- Transmission shafts
- Splined shafts, serrated shafts, keyway shafts
- Coupling shafts
- Bearing-supported shafts
- Motor shafts and rotor shafts
- Drive shafts for industrial machinery
Common Grades
| Component | Preferred Grades |
|---|---|
| Transmission & Drive Shafts | EN8, EN19, 42CrMo4 |
| Splined & Keyway Shafts | EN24 / 4340 |
| Motor & Rotor Shafts | EN8D, C45 |
Hydraulic Systems
Hydraulic cylinders, valves, piston rods and motion systems require bright bars due to their surface integrity and high load-bearing capability.
Hydraulic Components
- Piston rods
- Hydraulic cylinder shafts
- Valve components
- Guide rods
- End fittings and clevis parts
Grades Used
| Component | Grades |
|---|---|
| Piston Rods | EN8D, EN19 |
| Hydraulic Cylinder Shafts | C45, EN8, EN19 |
| Valve Components | 20MnCr5, 16MnCr5 |
Pneumatic Systems
Bright bars are selected for pneumatic applications where reliable linear motion and high surface finish are essential.
- Actuator rods
- Guide shafts
- Precision fasteners
- Valve elements
Electric Motor Parts
Motor shafts require high rotational balance, straightness and tensile properties.
Components
- Stator shafts
- Rotor shafts
- Pump shafts
- Fan motor shafts
Suitable Grades
| Component | Grades |
|---|---|
| Rotor Shafts | EN8D, C45 |
| Pump & Fan Shafts | EN8, EN19 |
Precision Tooling Components
Bright bars are frequently used for dies, jigs, fixtures and high-precision tooling components that require excellent machinability and predictable heat treatment response.
- Mandrels
- Tool holders
- Locating pins
- Guide sleeves
Why Steelmet Industries?
- Tight tolerance bright bars suitable for CNC machining
- VD route steels available for critical applications
- Consistency in straightness and mechanical properties
- Support for customer drawings and development components
- Testing support from NABL-certified labs
FAQs
Which grades are preferred for transmission shafts?
EN8, EN19 and 42CrMo4 are typically used due to their strength and machinability.
Are bright bars suitable for hydraulic cylinder rods?
Yes. EN8D and EN19 are widely used for hydraulic piston rods and load-bearing shafts.
Do electric motor shafts need high straightness?
Yes. Motor shafts require excellent straightness to avoid vibration and noise.
Can Steelmet supply VD route steel for critical applications?
Yes. VD/ESR route steels are available on request for high-purity applications.
Contact for Enquiries
For technical discussions, prototype development or production enquiries:

