Manganese has an important influence on the structure and properties of steel, depending on the amount used and the combined effect with other alloying elements. Among all other alloying elements, manganese has the strongest effect on the hardenability of steels.

Manganese improves the tensile strength, workability, toughness, hardness and resistance to abrasion. It also reacts with the remaining sulphur in the steel, thus preventing hot shortness.