Technical guide · 2026-08-14
Non-Oriented Electrical Steel
Non-oriented electrical steel is processed for comparatively uniform in-plane magnetic behavior, serving rotating machines where flux direction changes and where loss, strength, punchability and gauge must be balanced.
01
Definition and boundary
NOES addresses motors and generators rather than the strongly directional core optimization of GOES; fully processed grades normally receive their magnetic development at the mill.
Reference information only: final acceptance is controlled by the ordered product specification, condition, dimensions and certified test results.
02
How the material system works
Silicon and aluminum raise resistivity and reduce eddy-current loss.
Texture control limits directional variation in the sheet plane.
Stamping stress and burr increase local loss unless processing is controlled.
03
Representative grades and systems
| Grade or system | Selection focus | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| ASTM A677 fully processed | Commercial-frequency NOES supplied with mill-developed magnetic properties. | Confirm the governing product specification, delivery condition, section size and acceptance tests before treating designations as interchangeable. |
| ASTM A1086 thin gauge | Thin-gauge NOES for higher-frequency or loss-sensitive designs. | Confirm the governing product specification, delivery condition, section size and acceptance tests before treating designations as interchangeable. |
| High-strength NOES | Mechanical strength is balanced against magnetic loss for high-speed rotors. | Confirm the governing product specification, delivery condition, section size and acceptance tests before treating designations as interchangeable. |
04
Properties and trade-offs
Core loss across frequency range
In-plane magnetic anisotropy
Yield strength and fatigue for rotating service
05
Product forms and supply conditions
06
Applications and selection
Applications and selection
- Industrial motors and generators
- EV traction motors
- Compressors and high-speed rotors
Properties and trade-offs
- Use the actual inverter frequency spectrum, not only 50/60 Hz.
- Balance thinner gauge against stamping yield and cost.
- Add strength requirements for rotor bridges and high-speed duty.
07
Fabrication, durability and inspection
Qualify punch clearance and tool wear for burr control.
Avoid uncontrolled stress-relief annealing that damages coating.
Measure stacking and welding effects on finished laminations.
08
Procurement checklist
- State loss points, gauge and mechanical-property needs.
- Specify coating, weldability and annealing compatibility.
- Define width, flatness, burr, slit quality and coil traceability.
09
Standards, sources and review
Standards and designation context
- Applicable ASTM A06 electrical-steel product specification
- ASTM A664 grade-identification practice
- ASTM A976 insulating-coating classification