ASTM A36 steel vs AISI 1018 steel – ASTM A36 is a widely used structural carbon steel known for its excellent weldability, cost-effectiveness, and versatility in construction and engineering projects. In contrast, AISI 1018 is a low-carbon steel commonly used for precision machining of gears, shafts, and fasteners. While 1018 offers superior machinability, A36 is the preferred choice for large-scale structural applications such as bridges, buildings, and heavy equipment due to its strength, availability, and lower overall cost.