What is A572 Grade 60?
A572 60 grade is a high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) structural steel with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi (60 ksi). Due to its excellent strength, good weldability, and impact resistance, it is commonly used in demanding structural applications such as bridges, buildings, and heavy equipment. This steel conforms to ASTM A572 standards and is available in a variety of sizes, including plates, profiles, and bars.
Key Properties of A572 Grade 60
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 75,000 - 95,000 psi |
| Yield Strength | 60,000 psi (min) |
| Brinell Hardness | 187 HB (max) |
| Elongation | 20% (min) in 8 inches |
| Impact Toughness | -20°F (-29°C) |
| Thickness Range | 1/4 inch (6 mm) to 2 inches (51 mm) |
| Weldability | Good |
Chemical Composition of A572 Grade 60
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.23 max |
| Manganese (Mn) | 1.35 - 1.65 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.15 - 0.40 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.035 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.035 |
| Copper (Cu) | 0.20 - 0.35 |

What is grade 60 steel equivalent to?
ASTM A572 Grade 60 is a high-strength, low-alloy structural steel commonly used in bridges, buildings, and heavy machinery. Its equivalents can be found in various international standards with similar mechanical properties, chemical composition, and intended applications. These steels are used worldwide for structural applications requiring high strength, toughness, and weldability.
Equivalent Steels to ASTM A572 Grade 60
| Standard | Equivalent Grade | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ASTM/ASME | A572 Grade 60 | Original US high-strength, low-alloy steel used in structural applications. |
| EN (European) | S460QL, S460QL1 | Structural steel with yield strength 460 MPa (~66,700 psi), used in bridges and buildings. |
| JIS (Japanese) | SM520C | High-strength structural steel with similar tensile and yield strength, suitable for construction. |
| DIN (German) | St52-5N | German structural steel equivalent with comparable yield and tensile strength. |
| ISO (International) | ISO 4950-2 | International standard high-strength steel used in structural applications. |

Advantages of A572 Grade 60
High Strength: Provides a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi and tensile strength up to 95,000 psi.
Good Weldability: Allows for easy fabrication and joining in complex structures.
Durability: Maintains toughness and impact resistance even under heavy loads and harsh environments.
In summary, A572 Grade 60 is a high-strength, versatile steel ideal for demanding structural and industrial applications requiring superior strength, weldability, and toughness.




