About 1215|The lead-free alternative to
12L14. Resulfurized and rephosphorized for free-machining properties, rated around 136% machinability on the C1212 baseline. Not quite as butter-smooth as 12L14 (which rates 190%), but close enough for most screw machine work without the lead content headaches. Chips break well, good surface finish, reasonable tool life. Slightly stronger than 12L14 in some specs. Same limitations: poor weldability due to the sulfur, and it will rust faster than
1018. Often a few cents per pound cheaper than 12L14. If your customer's drawing changed from 12L14 to eliminate lead, 1215 is usually the first alternative. Compare to 12L14 (better machinability but leaded) and
1117 (free-machining with better weldability).
