What Is The N Value?

N Value

The N-value, also known as the strain hardening exponent, is a measure of steel's response to plastic deformation below its recrystallization temperature which is known as cold working. During cold working, the material becomes increasingly harder and stronger while its ductility decreases. This exponent gives professionals indication of how much the metal hardens or becomes stronger as it undergoes cold working to meet specifications, generally ones that are ideal for complex shapes and high-performance applications.