Products Description
A242 Corten Steel is a type of weathering steel that complies with the ASTM A242 specification. Known for its high strength and unique low alloying structure, it provides enhanced corrosion resistance and protection against harsh atmospheric conditions.
The alloy's chemical composition, including elements like copper, chromium, nickel, and phosphorus, gives it the ability to resist pitting and crevice corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor and industrial use. The ASTM A242 chemical composition is designed to improve the material's performance in various environmental conditions.
The ASTM A242 Corten Steel Plate is renowned for its excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength, ductility, and durability. These A242 steel properties make the plates highly suitable for various industries such as petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, and pulp and paper. ASTM A242 Corten Steel Plates are specifically designed to deliver exceptional performance, even in high-temperature environments, ensuring stability and reliability under tough conditions. The ASTM A242 mechanical properties include outstanding yield strength and elongation, further enhancing the material's overall performance.
When ASTM A242 steel is not available, equivalent materials like ASTM A588 or A871 can be used, as they offer similar weathering steel properties. This makes ASTM A242 equivalent material a viable choice in situations where A242 Corten Steel is unavailable.
Chemical Composition For Corten Steel ASTM A242 Type 1 Plate & Sheet
| Corten – A | ASTM 588 Grade A | ASTM 242 TYPE -1 | IRSM 41 -97 | |
| Carbon, Max | 0.12 | 0.19 | 0.15 | 0.10 |
| Manganese | 0.20-50 | 0.80-1.25 | 1.00 | 0.25-0.45 |
| Phosphorus | 0.07-0.15 | 0.04 | 0.15 | 0.07-0.11 |
| Sulphur, max | 0.030 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.030 |
| Silicon | 0.25-0.75 | 0.30-0.65 | 0.25-0.40 | 0.28-0.72 |
| Nickel, max | 0.65 | 0.40 | – | 0.20-0.49 |
| Chromium | 0.50-1.25 | 0.40-065 | – | 0.30-0.50 |
| Molybdenum, max | – | – | – | – |
| Copper | 0.25-0.55 | 0.25-0.40 | 0.20 min | 0.30-0.39 |
| Vanadium | – | 0.02-0.10 | – | 0.050 |
| Aluminimum | – | … | – | 0.030 |
Mechanical properties of corten steel ASTM A242 Type 1 plates & Sheets
| Tensile Strength | Min. Yield Point | Elongation | |
| CORTEN A | [470 – 630 MPa] | [355 MPa] | 20 % min |
| ASTM 588 GR. A | [485 MPa] | [345 MPa] | 21% min |
| ASTM 242 TYPE -1 | [480 MPa] | [345 MPa] | 16% min |
| IRSM 41- 97 | [480 MPa] | [340 MPa] | 21% min |



FAQ
Why is Corten steel so expensive?
One of the most practical considerations when choosing between Corten and mild steel is cost. Corten steel is more expensive than mild steel due to its unique composition and the additional processing required to create its weather-resistant properties.
How long will Corten steel last?
Generally, Corten steel will patina or rust within six months of atmospheric exposure. Most weathering steel types need wet/dry weather cycles to develop and oxidize. With the protective rust that provides corrosion resistance, Corten steel can last upwards of a few decades to over 100 years.
Is Corten steel better than stainless steel?
Unlike stainless steel, Corten Steel is a distinct type of alloy designed to weather gracefully over time, offering structural strength and an aesthetic quality that sets it apart.
Is corten stronger than mild steel?
Corten steel is the best choice if you want a material that doesn't rust, has high strength, is flexible, is easy on the eyes, doesn't need a lot of care and maintenance, and is friendly to the environment and meets all the rules. Mild steel, also called low-carbon steel, has less than 0.25 parts per million of carbon.
Why is it called Corten steel?
The name Corten is a shortening of Corrosion – Tensile, as the material has good corrosion resistance and tensile strength. This trademark name is officially written COR-TEN, however, and you may also hear it called weathering steel.
About Gnee
Founded in 2008, Gnee (Tianjin) Supply Chain Group Co., Ltd. specializes in the global trade and processing of Corten steel products.
• We handle all kinds of Corten engineering projects, such as bridges, gardens, hotels, and facade systems.
• Compliant with ASTM, EN, and other international standards; third-party inspection supported.
• Exported to over 200 countries and regions worldwide.
• 8 subsidiaries across China and overseas, ensuring global service coverage.
Application Fields: Architecture, landscaping, gardening, cladding, and urban infrastructure.






