Thought I posted this before but couldn't find it or any other definitive post about it. Sorry if its redundant.
I'm wondering what kind of steel is used on the old trellis frames?
[thumbsup]
Pretty sure it's just mild steel tubing.
Quote from: ducpainter on May 01, 2014, 02:54:51 PM
Pretty sure it's just mild steel tubing.
Very mild. Can't prove it but it's very soft to saw or file, and they are welded (as opposed to seamless). All indications of cheap steel.
ok. Thanks guys.
http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/howto/answers/122_0907_ask_the_pro/ (http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/howto/answers/122_0907_ask_the_pro/)
ALS450 is apparently known outside of Ducati as E420M.
http://www.steelnumber.com/en/steel_composition_eu.php?name_id=577 (http://www.steelnumber.com/en/steel_composition_eu.php?name_id=577)
It's a high-strength low alloy steel, here in the states something like HSLAS Grade 60 Class 2 (ASTM A1008).
Well, maybe I should not be so cathegorical about something I can not prove, sorry.
I do know about the Duc statement about frame material, but find it har to believe for the Monster and St frames I've cut into, for the reasons stated.
I used to work in a place where I could have material analysis done, but unfortunately I have no contacts there anymore; I would have liked to have the chemical analysis of the material to compare with the steel stated by Ducati.
Assuming Ducati knows what they are using, their statement should be of more value than my assumption.
So if welding on tubing should I just go with a mild steel or ss?
By "ss", I assume you mean stainless? If so, it sure is not stainless. The welding I've done (with a MIG welder) I've done with normal welding wire, don't know the exact type since it's not my welder.
I suppose the safest thing would be to ask at a pro shop, bringing the Duc info on frame material.
From a bit of research if welding on the frame I could use 4130 chromo or mild steel tubing. Mild will be a tad heavier but will bond better with the Italian stuff.
the gussets I welded on were just mild steel. no problem...
Just go mild steel, it's close enough for all practical purposes.
Word up.