Abstract: XCQ16-1 steel using for axle pipe was quenched at different temperatures and then tempered at the same temperature.The mechanical properties were deterimined.The mechanism of the quenching temperature affecting its properties was analyzed by observing the microstructure and morphology feature after heat treatment using OM and SEM.The results show that the quenching temperature had little effect on yield and tensile strength and hardness of XCQ16-1 steel using for axle pipe in the range of 840-910 ℃,but obvious effect on the elongation rate and impact work.The steel could get good comprehensive mechanical properties after quenched at 860 ℃ which could meet the need of axle steel.The microstructure was tempered sorbite and the fracture feature was ductile fracture after quenched at 860 ℃ and tempered at 490 ℃.