What is SA588 Grade C?
SA588 Grade C is a high-strength, low-alloy (HSLA) structural steel with enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance, specified under ASTM A588. It is designed for heavy-duty structural applications exposed to the environment, such as bridges, industrial frameworks, and outdoor building structures. The steel provides good weldability, toughness, and formability, suitable for long-term outdoor use with reduced maintenance.
Chemical Composition (Typical Limits)
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.23 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.85–1.35 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.025 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.025 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.20–0.50 |
| Copper (Cu) | 0.20–0.40 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 0.40 max |
| Chromium (Cr) | 0.40 max |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 0.08 max |
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Yield Strength (min) | 380 MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 485–635 MPa |
| Elongation | 16–19% (depending on thickness) |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ |
What is SA588 Grade K?
SA588 Grade K is a high-strength, low-alloy (HSLA) structural steel with enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance, specified under ASTM A588. It provides higher yield strength than Grades A, B, and C, making it suitable for heavy-duty structural applications exposed to the environment, such as bridges, cranes, and industrial frameworks. It also offers excellent weldability, toughness, and formability, ensuring long-term durability in outdoor structures.
Chemical Composition (Typical Limits)
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.23 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.85–1.35 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.025 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.025 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.20–0.50 |
| Copper (Cu) | 0.20–0.40 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 0.40 max |
| Chromium (Cr) | 0.40 max |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 0.08 max |
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Yield Strength (min) | 450 MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 510–655 MPa |
| Elongation | 16–18% (depending on thickness) |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ |
What is the difference of them?
Difference Between SA588 Grades
| Property | Grade A | Grade B | Grade C | Grade K |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yield Strength (min) | 290 MPa | 345 MPa | 380 MPa | 450 MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 480–620 MPa | 485–635 MPa | 485–635 MPa | 510–655 MPa |
| Elongation | ~20% | 18–20% | 16–19% | 16–18% |
| Corrosion Resistance | High | High | High | High |
| Typical Applications | Bridges, moderate structural loads, outdoor platforms | Bridges, heavier load-bearing structures | Bridges, industrial frameworks, outdoor structures | Heavy-duty bridges, cranes, industrial frameworks, high-load structures |
| Load Capacity | Moderate | Higher | Higher | Highest |
Analysis
Strength Progression: A < B < C < K. Grade K has the highest yield and tensile strength, suitable for the heaviest loads.
Corrosion Resistance: All grades have excellent atmospheric corrosion resistance, reducing maintenance for outdoor applications.
Applications:
Grade A: moderate structural loads
Grade B: higher loads than A
Grade C: heavy-duty outdoor structures
Grade K: most demanding structural applications requiring maximum strength
GNEE Steel also supplies a variety of high-strength steel plates, such as A514 Grade F, A572 Grade 50, A588 Grade A, S355JR, S690Q, SS400, S690QL, Q345B, Q345E, etc. If you want to know more about other types of steel plates, you can call the consultation hotline at +8615824687445 or send an email to info@gneesteels.com. You are welcome to consult us, and we are very willing to answer your questions.
