Products Description
What is "COR-TEN" steel:
"COR-TEN" is a US Steel trade name for ASTM A588. Corrosion Resistant Steel (often written without the hyphen as Corten) is a weather resistant steel grade which could more accurately be termed as an "Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Steel".The original COR-TEN received the standard designation A 242 ("COR-TEN A") from the ASTM International standards group. Newer ASTM grades are A 588 ("COR-TEN B") and A 606 for thin sheet. All alloys are in common production and use.
Corten steel is a copper chromium alloy steel - this alloy displays a greater level of resistance to atmospheric weathering when compared to other unalloyed steels. Corten steel which were developed to eliminate the need for painting, and form a stable rust-like appearance if exposed to the weather for several years. It's chemical composition promotes the early formation of an adhering protective layer of rust when exposed to the elements.
SPA-H steel, JIS G3125 Corten Chemical Composition (%)Compared:
| Grade | C | Si | Mn | P | S | Cr | Cu | V | Ni |
| Corten A | 0.12 | 0.25-0.75 | 0.20-0.50 | 0.07-0.15 | 0.030 | 0.50-1.25 | 0.25-0.55 | - | 0.65 |
| SPA-H | 0.12 | 0.20-0.75 | 0.60 | 0.07-0.15 | 0.035 | 0.30-1.25 | 0.25-0.50 | - | 0.65 |
Mechanical Properties Compared:
| Grade | Minimumyield point (ReH Mpa *) | Tensile strengthRm MPa | Minimumelongation A(Lo=5.65 ?So) % |
| Corten A | 355 | 470-630 | 20 |
| SPA-H | 355 | 490 | 22 |
FAQ
Is A588 the same as Corten?
A588 is a type of weathering steel that's renowned for its exceptional corrosion resistance. With its unique ability to form a protective rust-like surface, it eliminates the need for additional coatings, reducing maintenance costs. ASTM A588 is also referred to as Corten® and covers structural shapes, plate, and bar.
What is A588 steel used for?
ASTM A588, in particular, is intended for use in applications where savings in weight, added durability and extended life cycle are paramount, such as welded bridges and buildings. ASTM A588 is commonly used to construct pedestrian bridges, highway bridge girders, ships, tanks, railcars, fencing and sculptures.
What is ASTM A588 equivalent to?
The ASTM A588 grade A plate is equivalent to Corten A steel plate. ASTM A242 plate is equivalent to Corten B. Compared with common low alloy high strength steel such as A572 Grade 50, ASTM A588 and ASTM A242 has advantages of weathering resistant performances.
What is the difference between A36 and A588?
ASTM A588 is a high strength low-alloy structural steel, while A36 is just carbon steel. Due to the difference in chemical content, A588 angle steel has more applications than mild A36 angle bar. A588 angle iron ideal for corrosive environments without further surface treatment which reduces cost effectively.
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.
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.
