12L14 Cold Finished Bar is considered to be one of the fastest machining steels currently produced. This has been achieved through the addition and even dispersal of tiny lead particles? throughout the bar. C12L14 gives a smooth, machined surface and because of its low friction component allows increased tool life. This grade is recommended for high-speed automatic screw machine parts.

12L14 bar is a standard resulfurized and rephosphorized grade carbon Steel, and a free machining steel.  The added lead to the chemical composition provides improved machinability. Although the machinability is very good, the added lead content reduces the overall strength of this alloy.