Aug 21, 2025 Leave a message

S500 Steel: Properties and Key Applications Overview

info-244-133S500 Steel is a structural grade steel that belongs to the category of high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steels. It is primarily characterized by its excellent mechanical properties, which make it suitable for various engineering applications, particularly in construction and heavy machinery. The primary alloying elements in S500 steel include carbon (C), manganese (Mn), silicon (Si), and small amounts of other elements such as phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S). These elements contribute to the steel's strength, ductility, and weldability.

 

Comprehensive Overview

 

S500 steel is classified as a high-strength structural steel, designed to provide superior performance in demanding applications. Its chemical composition typically includes a carbon content of around 0.10% to 0.20%, along with manganese levels ranging from 1.0% to 1.5%. This combination results in a material that exhibits high yield strength, typically around 500 MPa (72 ksi), making it ideal for load-bearing structures.

The most significant characteristics of S500 steel include its high tensile strength, excellent weldability, and good toughness at low temperatures. These properties are essential for structural applications where safety and reliability are paramount.

 

  • Advantages and Limitations

Advantages (Pros) Limitations (Cons)
High strength-to-weight ratio Higher cost compared to mild steel
Excellent weldability Limited corrosion resistance without coatings
Good toughness at low temperatures Requires careful heat treatment for optimal properties
Versatile for various applications May require preheating for certain welding processes

 

S500 steel holds a strong position in the market, particularly in Europe, where it is commonly used in construction, bridges, and heavy machinery. Its historical significance lies in the evolution of structural steels that meet modern engineering demands for strength and durability.

 

Key Properties

 

  • Chemical Composition

Element (Symbol and Name) Percentage Range (%)
C (Carbon) 0.10 - 0.20
Mn (Manganese) 1.0 - 1.5
Si (Silicon) 0.15 - 0.40
P (Phosphorus) ≤ 0.025
S (Sulfur) ≤ 0.015

 

The primary alloying elements in S500 steel play crucial roles in determining its properties. Carbon enhances strength and hardness, while manganese improves toughness and hardenability. Silicon contributes to deoxidation during steelmaking and enhances strength. The low levels of phosphorus and sulfur help maintain ductility and toughness.

 

  • Mechanical Properties

Property Condition/Temper Typical Value/Range (Metric) Typical Value/Range (Imperial) Reference Standard for Test Method
Yield Strength (0.2% offset) Quenched & Tempered 500 - 600 MPa 72 - 87 ksi ASTM E8
Tensile Strength Quenched & Tempered 600 - 700 MPa 87 - 102 ksi ASTM E8
Elongation Quenched & Tempered 20 - 25% 20 - 25% ASTM E8
Hardness (Brinell) Quenched & Tempered 180 - 220 HB 180 - 220 HB ASTM E10
Impact Strength -40°C 27 J 20 ft-lbf ASTM E23

 

The combination of high yield and tensile strength makes S500 steel suitable for applications requiring significant load-bearing capabilities. Its elongation percentage indicates good ductility, allowing for deformation without fracture, which is critical in structural applications.

 

Typical Applications and End Uses

 

Industry/Sector Specific Application Example Key Steel Properties Utilized in this Application Reason for Selection (Brief)
Construction High-rise buildings High yield strength, excellent weldability Structural integrity
Heavy Machinery Cranes and lifts Good toughness, high strength Load-bearing capabilities
Automotive Chassis components Lightweight, high strength Fuel efficiency
Infrastructure Bridges Durability, resistance to fatigue Long service life

 

info-316-163Other applications include:

  • Structural beams and columns
  • Offshore structures
  • Industrial equipment

S500 steel is chosen for these applications due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent mechanical properties, which are critical for safety and performance.

 

 

When selecting S500 steel, considerations include cost-effectiveness, availability, and specific application requirements. Its balance of strength, weldability, and toughness makes it a preferred choice for structural applications, while its limitations in corrosion resistance necessitate protective measures in certain environments. Understanding these factors is crucial for engineers and designers to ensure optimal performance and safety in their projects.

Contact now

 

Email: info@gneesteels.com
Whatsapp (WeChat) :+86 15824687445

 

Other steel plate
Name Material Specification (mm) Tons Remark
Low Alloy Q345A, Q345B, Q345C, Q345D, Q345E, Q390, Q420, Q460C, ST52-3, S355J2+N, SS400, SA302GrC, S275NL, 35CrMo 6 - 350 5788.56 Normalizing, tempered ,controlled rolling, hot rolling , Hot rolling,1st inspection, 2nd inspection, 3rd inspection
Pressure Vessel Plate Q245R, Q345R, Q370R, 16MnDR, 09MnNiDR, 15CrMoR, 14Cr1MoR, 12Cr2Mo1R, SA516Gr60, SA516Gr70, SA516Gr485, SA285, SA387Gr11, SA387Gr12, SA387Gr22, P265,P295,P355GH,Q245R(R-HIC),Q345R(R-HIC) 3 - 300 8650 Normalizing, tempered ,controlled rolling, hot rolling , Hot rolling,1st inspection, 2nd inspection, 3rd inspection
High-Strength Plate WH785D/E,Q960D/E, Q890D/E,WH60D/E,WH70B,Q550D,Q590D,Q690D/E 8 - 120 3086.352 Quenched and tempered
Wear-Resistant Plate NM360, NM400, NM450, NM500 6 - 150 3866.297 Quenched and tempered
Bridge Plate Q235qC, Q345qC, Q370qC, Q420qC, Q345qDNH, Q370qDNH, A709 - 50F - 2, A709 - 50T - 2 8 - 200 2853.621 Hot rolling, normalized ,hot rolling controlled rolling, quenched and tempered + toughness and brittleness


 

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