Selecting the right grade of structural steel is a critical decision that impacts the safety, weldability, and longevity of your project. When navigating the European standards for high-strength steel, the comparison between S355J2 vs S355J2+N vs S355NL steel often arises. While all three belong to the 355 MPa yield strength family, their delivery conditions, impact toughness, and micro-alloying elements differ significantly to suit varying environmental demands.
As a leading global steel manufacturer and professional supplier, GNEE provides high-quality structural steel solutions to customers in over 60 countries. With a massive inventory of over 50,000 tons and a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, we specialize in delivering EN 10025 certified plates, pipes, and profiles.
Whether you require the versatility of S355J2 or the extreme low-temperature resilience of S355NL, GNEE ensures factory-direct pricing, rigorous quality control, and comprehensive Mill Test Certificates (MTC) for every order.
S355J2 vs S355J2 N vs S355NL Steel – Basic Definition and Standards
S355J2, S355J2+N, and S355NL are all structural steels under the EN 10025 standard system but differ in delivery condition and performance level.
Grade Meaning
S355J2
- EN 10025-2
- Impact test at -20°C
- Delivered as rolled or unspecified
S355J2+N (S355J2 N)
- EN 10025-2
- Normalized or normalized rolled condition
- Improved toughness consistency
S355NL
- EN 10025-3
- Fine grain steel
- Impact test at -50°C
👉 Key Insight:
S355NL is a higher-performance grade designed for low-temperature and critical applications.
Steel plate rolling line – factory production scene
To learn more, click What Is The Difference Between S355J2 And S355J2 N?
S355J2 vs S355J2 N vs S355NL Steel – Chemical Composition Comparison
Typical Chemical Composition (%)
| Element | S355J2 | S355J2+N | S355NL |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | ≤0.20 | ≤0.20 | ≤0.18 |
| Mn | ≤1.60 | ≤1.60 | ≤1.60 |
| Si | ≤0.55 | ≤0.55 | ≤0.50 |
| P | ≤0.025 | ≤0.025 | ≤0.020 |
| S | ≤0.025 | ≤0.025 | ≤0.015 |
| Nb/V/Ti | Optional | Optional | Micro-alloyed |
Composition Insight
S355NL features stricter impurity limits and micro-alloying elements, resulting in:
- Better grain refinement
- Higher toughness
- Improved weldability
S355J2 vs S355J2 N vs S355NL Steel – Mechanical Properties
Mechanical Properties Comparison
| Property | S355J2 | S355J2+N | S355NL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yield Strength | ≥355 MPa | ≥355 MPa | ≥355 MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 470–630 MPa | 470–630 MPa | 470–630 MPa |
| Impact Temperature | -20°C | -20°C | -50°C |
| Impact Energy | ≥27 J | ≥27 J | ≥27 J |
| Toughness | Moderate | High | Excellent |
Performance Insight
- S355J2: Basic structural performance
- S355J2+N: More consistent mechanical properties
- S355NL: Superior low-temperature toughness
Understanding S355J2 Steel Properties and Delivery Conditions
To begin our S355J2 vs S355J2+N vs S355NL steel analysis, we must define the basic S355J2. This grade is a non-alloy structural steel governed by the EN 10025-2 standard. The "S" stands for structural steel, "355" denotes a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa, and "J2" indicates that the material must undergo a Charpy V-notch impact test at -20°C with a minimum energy absorption of 27 Joules.
Standard S355J2 is often delivered in an "As-Rolled" (AR) condition. This makes it a cost-effective choice for general construction where the steel will not be subjected to extreme cold or complex welding stresses. It offers excellent tensile strength and is widely used in building frames, transmission towers, and general machinery parts. However, for applications requiring better internal uniformity, engineers often upgrade to the "+N" version.
A wide-angle shot of GNEE's massive outdoor warehouse
The Difference Between S355J2 vs S355J2+N Steel
The most frequent question we receive at the GNEE factory is about the S355J2 vs S355J2+N steel designation. The "+N" signifies that the steel has been Normalized or subjected to Normalized Rolling. Normalizing involves heating the steel to a specific temperature above its critical point and then cooling it in still air.
This process refines the grain structure of the steel, making it much more uniform compared to standard S355J2.
In the S355J2 vs S355J2+N vs S355NL steel comparison, S355J2+N offers:
- Enhanced Weldability: The refined grain structure reduces the risk of cracking in the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ).
- Improved Ductility: The material can better withstand plastic deformation.
- Consistent Mechanical Performance: Normalization ensures that the properties are uniform throughout the entire thickness of the plate.
For critical load-bearing structures like bridges and offshore components, S355J2+N is the preferred modern standard over basic S355J2.
S355NL Steel Properties: Fine-Grain and Low-Temperature Excellence
Moving to the premium end of the spectrum, S355NL steel is governed by EN 10025-3, which covers weldable fine-grain structural steels.
While S355J2+N is tested at -20°C, the "NL" in S355NL indicates it is a fine-grain steel tested for impact toughness at much lower temperatures.
S355NL must achieve a minimum of 27 Joules at -50°C.
This makes it an essential material for Arctic engineering, high-altitude infrastructure, and cryogenic storage support structures.
Unlike the standard non-alloy S355J2, S355NL is carefully micro-alloyed with elements like Aluminium, Niobium, or Titanium to maintain a "fine grain" even after the heat of welding.
If your project faces sub-zero environments, the choice in the S355J2 vs S355J2+N vs S355NL steel comparison must be S355NL to prevent brittle fracture.
S355J2 vs S355J2 N vs S355NL Steel – Manufacturing Process Difference
Process Comparison
S355J2
Hot rolled
No mandatory heat treatment
S355J2+N
Hot rolled + normalizing
Improved grain structure
S355NL
Normalized rolling
Controlled cooling
Fine grain steel production
Process Impact
As processing becomes more advanced (J2 → J2+N → NL), the material gains:
- Better structural uniformity
- Higher toughness
- Improved resistance to brittle fracture
S355J2 vs S355J2 N vs S355NL Steel – Applications
Application Comparison
S355J2
General construction
Buildings and steel structures
Machinery parts
S355J2+N
Bridges
Heavy machinery
Medium-load structures
S355NL
Offshore platforms
Oil & gas projects
Pressure vessels
Cold-region infrastructure
S355J2 vs S355J2 N vs S355NL Steel – Equivalent Grades
Equivalent Standards Comparison
| Standard | S355J2 | S355J2+N | S355NL |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASTM | A572 Gr.50 | A572 Gr.50 | A709 Gr.50 |
| DIN | St52-3 | St52-3 | 1.0546 |
| JIS | SM490B | SM490B | SM490YB |
| GB | Q355B | Q355B | Q355E |
👉 Note: S355NL equivalents typically correspond to higher toughness grades.
S355J2 vs S355J2 N vs S355NL Steel – Selection Guide
How to Choose
- Choose S355J2 → standard applications, budget-focused
- Choose S355J2+N → better performance, moderate conditions
- Choose S355NL → extreme conditions, low temperature, critical safety
S355J2 vs S355J2 N vs S355NL Steel – Why Choose GNEE?
GNEE provides a full range of structural steel solutions with:
- 150+ professional team
- 30,000 tons annual production capacity
- Advanced inspection (UT, impact, tensile testing)
- Compliance with EN, ASTM, ISO standards
- OEM & ODM customization
- Fast global delivery and strong packaging
We help customers reduce risk, optimize cost, and ensure project success.
S355J2 vs S355J2 N vs S355NL Steel – Conclusion
In conclusion, the S355J2 vs S355J2 N vs S355NL steel: equivalent & properties comparison shows a clear performance hierarchy. S355J2 is suitable for general use, S355J2+N offers improved consistency, while S355NL delivers superior toughness and reliability in extreme environments.
If you are planning your next project and need expert guidance, GNEE is your trusted partner. Contact us now for professional support, competitive pricing, and fast quotation on S355J2 vs S355J2 N vs S355NL steel-secure the best material solution today!
What is the difference between S355NL and S355J2 N?
EN10025 S355NL combines the higher Yield and Tensile properties of S355J2+N, but with additional Impact properties at -50 Deg C. This enables the steel to keep its characteristics at extremely cold locations such as the arctic or offshore applications.
What is the difference between S355J2 and S355J2G3?
S355J2G3 is a non alloy structural steel with good weldability and mechanical properties, commonly used in the manufacture of components, mechanical parts, and equipment. In contrast, S355J2+N (EN 1.0577) is a product obtained by normalizing S355J2 steel, which has higher strength and toughness.
What is the difference between S355NL and S355JR?
S355NL is a normalized fine-grain steel tested at -50°C (≥27 J), ideal for cold climates like arctic offshore platforms. S355JR is a hot-rolled non-alloy steel tested at +20°C (if tested), suited for temperate general construction.
What is the main difference in S355N vs S355J2+N?
S355N is a low-alloy, normalized steel with microalloying for enhanced toughness, while S355J2+N is a non-alloy, normalized steel for cost-effective general construction.
How do S355N and S355J2+N toughness compare?
Both offer ≥27 J at -20°C, but S355N's fine-grain structure and microalloying (Nb, V, Al) provide superior toughness for critical applications.
Which is better for welding, S355N or S355J2+N?
S355J2+N's simpler composition and lower phosphorus/nitrogen make it slightly easier to weld, though both have low CEV (≤0.43% and ≤0.45%).
What applications suit S355N vs S355J2+N?
S355N is ideal for high-load structures like bridges and cranes; S355J2+N suits general construction and buildings, similar to en 10025 3 s275n normalized structural steel plate.
How do S355N and S355J2+N costs compare?
S355N is 10-20% more expensive than S355J2+N due to microalloying and enhanced toughness.
