NIPPON KINZOKU Newly Promotes SFA Finish as an Eco-Product

SFA finish softens carbon and tool steels, enables difficult machining

TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NIPPON KINZOKU CO., LTD. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo) will strengthen sales of its "SFA Finish" carbon steel and carbon tool steel, which offer improved workability through softening, as the fifth product in its environmentally-friendly "Eco-Product" series.

“SFA (Super Full Annealing) Finish” is our proprietary product that softens materials without altering chemical composition by optimizing manufacturing conditions. This softening enhances workability and reduces springback. Consequently, it enables process streamlining and improved yield rates, contributing to enhance energy efficiency in manufacturing processes and reduced environmental impact.

Therefore, our "SFA finish" for carbon steel and carbon tool steel is certified as an environmentally-friendly "Eco-Product" under our proprietary standards. We are committed to sustainable manufacturing through the widespread adoption of environmentally-friendly materials, aiming for net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

Furthermore, this product is a proprietary offering aligned with the vision of our 11th Business Plan, “NIPPON KINZOKU 2030.” Under the keyword “Near Net Performance” (achieving the performance required of the final product at the material stage), it meets customer needs. Going forward, we aim to further expand sales, primarily in the automotive sector.

Features and Benefits of SFA Finish

1. Chemical Composition
   Product properties are enhanced by optimizing cold rolling conditions, with no changes to the chemical composition.
   
2. Mechanical Properties
   Compared to standard annealed products, it offers superior ductility while being softer (lower strength).
   
3. Processability
   Its low springback ensures stable product shape after processing.
   
4. Metal Structure
   The size of the spheroidal carbides is approximately 1.0 to 1.5 μm, equivalent to typical annealed finish.
   
5. Properties after Heat Treatment
   The microstructure and hardness after quenching and tempering are equivalent to those of general-purpose materials.

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https://www.nipponkinzoku.co.jp/assets/images/2025/09/934d41c708857ee8bb4409fafb7ffb18.pdf

Overview of Cold Rolled Special Steel Strip Products

Our company began producing cold rolled special steel strip in 1930, making us the longest-established manufacturer in Japan. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality products that meet diverse specifications and quantities across all industries.

Overview of Steel Strip Products

Leveraging our proprietary equipment designed with cold rolling expertise and industry-leading technology, we meet our customers' diverse needs.
URL: https://www.nipponkinzoku.co.jp/en/corporate-profile/business/cold-rolled-stainless-steel-strip

About NIPPON KINZOKU Group

Our products have been used in a range of areas from the precision field to the construction industry. https://www.nipponkinzoku.co.jp/en/