NM400 vs Hardox400: The Ultimate Wear-Resistant Steel Showdown
This in-depth guide doesn’t just skim the surface — we’re diving deep into composition, strength, weldability, real-world applications, and even global availability. Whether you’re an engineer, fabricator, buyer, or just AR-curious, this is the showdown you’ve been waiting for.
Meet the Contenders
A brief overview of the two steel legends.
What is NM400?
NM400 is a wear-resistant steel developed mainly in China. The “NM” stands for “Nai Mo,” meaning wear-resistant in Chinese, and 400 indicates its average Brinell hardness (HB). Known for its cost efficiency and decent mechanical strength, it is widely used in dump truck bodies, bulldozers, loaders, and other high-wear environments.
What is Hardox400?
Hardox 400 is a globally recognized AR steel brand by SSAB, Sweden. Marketed as a premium solution, it offers superior toughness, consistency, and impressive mechanical properties, backed by SSAB’s stringent internal specifications. Often regarded as the “Rolex” of AR steels.
The Core Purpose: Why These Steels Exist
Understanding the mission behind AR steels.
What is Abrasion-Resistant Steel?
AR steel is engineered specifically to resist wear and tear caused by friction, scraping, or high impact. It’s not about looking tough—it’s about enduring punishment where it counts.
Key Industries That Rely on AR Steels
From open-pit mining and cement plants to agricultural plowing tools and concrete mixers, AR steels like NM400 and Hardox 400 keep systems moving without frequent replacement.
Chemistry Class: What They’re Made Of
Chemical composition tells a big part of the story.
NM400 Chemical Composition
| Element | NM400 (Max %) | Hardox 400 (Max %) |
| C | 0.30 | 0.32 |
| Si | 0.70 | 0.70 |
| Mn | 1.60 | 1.60 |
| P | 0.025 | 0.025 |
| S | 0.010 | 0.010 |
| Cr | 1.20 | 2.50 |
| Ni | 0.70 | 1.50 |
| Mo | 0.50 | 0.60 |
Hardox 400 Chemical Composition
| Element | Max % |
| C | 0.32 |
| Si | 0.70 |
| Mn | 1.60 |
| P | 0.025 |
| S | 0.010 |
| Cr | 2.50 |
| Ni | 1.50 |
| Mo | 0.60 |
The Hard Facts: Mechanical Properties
Let’s compare specs where it matters.
Hardness Comparison
| Steel Type | Brinell Hardness (HBW) |
| NM400 | 360–420 |
| Hardox 400 | 370–430 |
Tensile & Yield Strength
| Property | NM400 | Hardox 400 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | ~1250 | ~1400 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | ~900 | ~1000 |
Impact Toughness
Not any more.Chinese steel mills like Chinese appliances and auto cars,their techonlogy and quainity are improving quickly .
Manufacturing & Standards
Where it’s made matters more than you think.
Country of Origin
- NM400:China（Ansteel,Baosteel ,Shenglong, etc.）
- Hardox 400: Sweden (SSAB)
Governing Standards
- NM400: GB/T24186-2022
- Hardox 400: SSAB Internal Specifications
Quality Control
SSAB uses a tight manufacturing window with guaranteed properties. NM400 varies slightly by supplier.
Real-World Performance
Let’s step outside the lab.
NM400 in the Field
Used widely in China and Southeast Asia. Performs reliably in moderate conditions like construction and material handling.
Hardox 400 in Action
Survives high-impact mining, offshore drilling, and scrap yards. Fewer cracks, longer uptime.
Case Study
A recycling plant replaced NM400 shredder hammers with Hardox 400, reducing downtime by 30% and doubling part life.
Weldability & Machinability
Fabricators need love too.
Welding NM400
Preheat often not necessary. Good for low-heat applications and medium complexity parts.
Welding Hardox 400
Requires preheating (150–200°C). More complex but yields better post-weld durability.
Machining Comparison
Hardox is harder to cut and drill, but offers superior service life. NM400 is easier on tools, better for fast prototyping.
Durability & Lifespan
Which one stays in the fight longer?
| Criteria | NM400 | Hardox 400 |
| Wear Resistance | Medium–High | Very High |
| Service Lifespan | ~1.0x | ~1.3–1.5x |
| Downtime Risk | Higher | Lower |
Surface Finish & Coatings
Looks and coatings matter.
Aesthetic Look
Hardox has a smoother, cleaner surface finish. NM400 may require polishing or blasting before coating.
Coating Compatibility
Hardox bonds better with paint, powder coatings, and rust-proof treatments.
Cost Comparison
Both Hardox and NM400 bonds better with paint,powder coatings ,and rust-proof treatments.
| Metric | NM400 | Hardox 400 |
| Avg. Cost per Ton | $700–900 | $2000–3000 |
| Value-for-Money | High | Premium Class |
Availability & Logistics
Availability shapes decisions too.
Stock Readiness
- NM400: Abundant in Asia
- Hardox: Available globally through SSAB
Delivery Lead Times
Hardox offers faster turnaround for standard sizes; NM400 offers better flexibility for urgent, local orders.
Eco & Sustainability Factors
Steel that’s tough on wear, easy on the Earth.
Recyclability
Both are 100% recyclable.
Environmental Certifications
Hardox leads in green innovation — SSAB aims for fossil-free steel production by 2026.
Myths & Misconceptions
Is Hardox Always Better?
No. In low-impact, cost-sensitive jobs, NM400 performs perfectly well.
Is Chinese Steel Inferior?
Not anymore. Top Chinese mills deliver stable, high-quality NM400 for export markets.
When to Choose NM400
Scenarios
- Medium-duty dump trucks
- Coal or sand hoppers
- Budget-driven fabrication
When to Choose Hardox 400
Scenarios
- Mining buckets and teeth
- Crusher liners
- Offshore structural components
What Experts Say
“We switched to Hardox — zero failures in 6 months of rock cutting.”
“NM400 helps us reduce build cost without major compromise.”
Verdict: NM400 or Hardox 400?
| Feature | NM400 | Hardox 400 |
| Strength | Good | Excellent |
| Consistency | Moderate | High |
| Weldability | Easy | Controlled |
| Price | Affordable | Premium |
| Global Support | Limited | Extensive |
Bonus: Alternatives to Consider
- XAR400 – Germany
- JFE-EH400 – Japan
- AR400F – USA
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right AR steel is more than a purchase—it’s an investment in uptime, longevity, and peace of mind. Match the material to the mission, and the results will follow.
Get A Quote
Quote Now
0 Comments