What is S460M steel?
S460M is a thermo-mechanically rolled, fine-grain high-strength structural steel specified in EN 10025-4.
It provides:
Minimum yield strength: 460 MPa
Excellent toughness, ductility, and weldability
Good plate flatness and formability
The "M" designation indicates thermo-mechanically rolled steel, ensuring consistent mechanical properties.
S460M is commonly used in bridges, offshore structures, cranes, heavy machinery, and structural steel frameworks.
1. Chemical Composition (Typical Values, %)
| Element | C (max) | Si | Mn | P (max) | S (max) | Nb | V | Ti |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S460M | 0.22 | ≤ 0.55 | 1.00–1.60 | 0.025 | 0.020 | ≤ 0.06 | ≤ 0.12 | ≤ 0.03 |
2. Mechanical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Yield Strength (≤16 mm) | 460 MPa |
| Yield Strength (40–100 mm) | 440–460 MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 540–720 MPa |
| Elongation (A5) | ≥ 20–22% |
| Charpy Impact | ≥ 27 J at –20°C |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ |
What does the "M" stand for in S460M?
In S460M, the "M" stands for thermo-mechanically rolled.
Explanation:
Thermo-mechanical rolling (TMCP) is a controlled rolling and cooling process that refines the grain structure of the steel.
This process enhances toughness, strength, and ductility, especially in thicker plates, compared to normalized or standard rolled steels.
S460M thus combines high yield strength (460 MPa) with excellent low-temperature toughness and weldability, making it ideal for bridges, offshore structures, cranes, and heavy engineering applications.
Which steel mills commonly supply S460M?
Here is a list of steel mills and suppliers that commonly produce or supply S460M:
HBIS Group (China) – supplies S460M plates through export agents
Shougang Group (China) – offers S460M via export channels
Gangsteel (China) – stocks S460M TMCP plates, thickness 6–200 mm
BEBON Steel Co., Ltd. (China) – provides S460M plates for structural applications
British Steel (UK / Europe) – produces S460M structural steel sections
Notes when choosing a supplier:
Ensure delivery condition and certification comply with EN 10025‑4 and request mill test certificates.
Verify plate size and thickness availability for your project.
Confirm low-temperature toughness requirements if needed; standard S460M guarantees –20°C, while S460ML is for colder applications.
Check that testing and inspection meet project standards, especially for critical structures.
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.
