What Is ASTM A588 Steel?

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. This alloy is made up of copper, chromium, nickel, and other elements that give it its weathering resistance properties. It is also known for its high strength, making it an ideal choice for architectural and structural applications including bridges, buildings, and outdoor structures.

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(The application of A588 steel plates in bridge construction.)

ASTM A588 Chemical Composition

	Grade A	Grade B	Grade K	Grade C
Carbon	0.19%	0.2%	0.17%	0.17%
Manganese	0.8-1.25%	0.75-1.35%	0.50-1.20%	0.50-1.20%
Phosphorus	0.03%	0.03%	0.03%	0.03%
Sulfur	0.03%	0.03%	0.03%	0.03%
Silicon	0.30-0.65%	0.15-0.50%	0.25-0.50%	0.25-0.50%
Nickel	0.4%	0.5%	0.4%	0.4%
Chromium	0.4-0.65%	0.4-0.7%	0.4-0.7%	0.4-0.7%
Molybdenum	...	...	0.1%	0.1%
Copper	0.25-0.4%	0.2-0.4%	0.3-0.5%	0.3-0.5%
Vanadium	0.02-0.10%	0.01-0.10%	...
Columbium	...	...	0.005-0.05%	0.005-0.05%

The ASTM A588 specification is specifically designed to provide high atmospheric corrosion resistance, making it suitable for outdoor applications where exposure to the elements is a concern.

One of the distinctive characteristics of ASTM A588 steel is its ability to form a protective rust-like surface when exposed to the atmosphere. This natural oxidation process creates a barrier that inhibits further corrosion, thus eliminating the need for additional protective coatings. The weathered appearance of ASTM A588 steel is often considered aesthetically pleasing and is frequently used in architectural applications.

ASTM A588 has a 50ksi minimum yield strength and a 70ksi minimum tensile strength. Weathering steels are not suitable for use in significant load-bearing members above 450 degrees Celsius.

Overall, ASTM A588 is widely used in the construction industry due to its excellent corrosion resistance, high strength, and durable nature, making it suitable for a range of structural applications exposed to harsh environmental conditions.

FAQ

01.What is ASTM A588 steel 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.

02.What is the difference between ASTM A36 and A588?

What is the difference between A588 to carbon steel A36? 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.

03.What is the difference between ASTM A572 and ASTM A588?

Differences: Corrosion Resistance: A572 does not have the same level of corrosion resistance as A588 due to the additional elements in A588 that provide atmospheric corrosion resistance.

04.What is the difference between Grade A and B in A588?

When to Choose A vs B. Choose Grade A if the design prioritizes weldability and higher silicon content is acceptable. Choose Grade B for slightly thicker sections or when higher manganese content might improve formability or impact toughness.

05.Can A588 steel be galvanized?

Weathering steel can be galvanized successfully and is considered for applications such as bridges, transmission towers, lamp standards, and pole-line hardware.

Company profile

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.

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