Corten Steel Specifications

June 28, 2024
This blog is all about Corten steel. We provide easy-to-understand information about its specifications and ASTM standards. Whether you’re an architect, builder, designer, or just curious about this unique material, you’ll find helpful information here.

What is Corten Steel?

Corten steel, also known as weathering steel, is known for forming a protective rust-like patina when exposed to the elements. This unique feature gives it a rustic look and enhances its durability and corrosion resistance.

Corten Steel Specifications

Corten steel is a type of corrosion-resistant steel developed by United States Steel Corporation. It is designed for applications requiring strength and a long lifespan. When exposed to different weather conditions, it forms a protective rust layer, called a patina, which prevents further corrosion.

Corten steel manufacturers have created their own versions of this steel. ASTM has set equivalent specifications to ensure consistency and reliability across different products. Our equivalent ASTM specifications include ASTM A588, A242, S355J0W, and S355J2W. These standards ensure that the steel maintains the same level of strength and corrosion resistance as Corten steel.

ASTM A588 Specifications

ASTM A588 is a high-strength, low-alloy structural steel with enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance. It is used for various structural components like angles, channels, beams, steel plates, and bars. Designed for welded bridges and structures, A588 steel offers weight savings and increased durability, contributing to a longer life cycle due to its corrosion-resistant properties.

A588 steel outperforms carbon steels like A36 and A572-50 in atmospheric corrosion resistance, even without copper. It is suitable for many unpainted applications when exposed to the elements. With a minimum yield strength of 50 ksi and a minimum tensile strength of 70 ksi, ASTM A588 provides excellent strength and resilience, making it ideal for projects requiring high strength and corrosion resistance.

ASTM A242 Specifications

ASTM A242 is a high-strength, low-alloy structural steel designed for enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance. It is commonly used for steel plates up to one-half inch thick, providing excellent durability and resilience in tough environmental conditions.

A242 steel offers superior corrosion resistance compared to carbon steels like A36 and A572-50, even without copper. It is ideal for various unpainted applications when exposed to the atmosphere.With a minimum yield strength of 50 ksi and a minimum tensile strength of 70 ksi, ASTM A242 delivers strong performance and durability, making it a great choice for projects requiring high strength and corrosion resistance.

ASTM A606-4 Specifications

ASTM A606-4 is a high-strength, low-alloy steel designed for superior atmospheric corrosion resistance. Available in hot and cold-rolled sheets, strips, and coils, it is ideal for structural applications requiring weight savings and durability.

Enhanced with additional alloying elements, A606-4 offers better corrosion resistance than carbon steels, whether copper is added or not. It can be used bare and exposed to the atmosphere.With a minimum yield strength of 50 ksi and a tensile strength of 70 ksi, ASTM A606-4 is a reliable and versatile choice for projects needing high strength and excellent corrosion resistance.

ASTM A709-50W Specifications

ASTM A709-50W is a high-strength, low-alloy steel ideal for bridges. Available in structural shapes, plates, and bars, it offers exceptional strength and atmospheric corrosion resistance.

With an atmospheric corrosion index of 6.00 or higher, ASTM A709-50W outperforms regular carbon steel, even without copper. It can be left unpainted, showcasing its natural, durable patina, making it perfect for applications where unpainted steel is desired.

ASTM A871-65 Specifications

ASTM A871-65 is a high-strength, low-alloy structural steel plate known for its superior atmospheric corrosion resistance. With a minimum yield strength of 65 ksi and a minimum tensile strength of 80 ksi, this steel surpasses carbon steels in durability and corrosion resistance, even without copper.

ASTM A871-65 can be used in various applications. It is primarily used in transmission and lighting poles, offering an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional galvanized structures. This steel blends strength and beauty, adding an artistic touch to structural engineering while standing resilient in the open air.

ASTM A572-65 Specifications

ASTM A572-65 is a high-strength, low-alloy structural steel enhanced with columbium-vanadium, offering 65 ksi minimum yield strength and 80 ksi minimum tensile strength. Ideal for galvanized transmission and lighting poles, it features a limited silicon content of 0.05 max for optimized galvanizing. It meets a Charpy V-Notch test of 15 ft/lb at -20°F, ensuring toughness in cold conditions.
This steel is known for its precision, reliability, and ability to withstand harsh environments, making it perfect for high-performance, durable projects. Choose ASTM A572-65 for strength and longevity.

ASTM A847 Specifications

ASTM A847 is a strong, low-alloy steel used for square and rectangular tubing and pipe. It resists corrosion much better than regular carbon steel, making it ideal for bridges and structures needing durability and strength.

This steel works well for welded, bolted, or riveted construction. It can be used bare, without paint, and still last a long time with minimal upkeep. With a yield strength of at least 50 ksi and a tensile strength of 70 ksi, ASTM A847 is perfect for tough environments and important construction projects.

FAQS

What are the key ASTM specifications for Corten steel?
ASTM specifications for Corten steel include ASTM A588, A242, A606-4, A709-50W, A871-65, A572-65, and A847.
What applications are suitable for ASTM A588 steel?
ASTM A588 is ideal for structural components like angles, channels, beams, steel plates, and bars, especially in welded bridges and structures due to its high strength and corrosion resistance.
How does ASTM A242 steel differ from other carbon steels?
ASTM A242 offers superior atmospheric corrosion resistance and is commonly used for steel plates up to one-half inch in thickness in unpainted applications.
What are the uses of ASTM A847 steel?
ASTM A847 is used for square and rectangular tubing and pipe in welded, bolted, or riveted construction of bridges and other structures requiring high strength and corrosion resistance.

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