Products Description
A242 corten steel is highly resistant to corrosion due to its unique composition and formation of a protective oxide layer. The following factors contribute to its exceptional corrosion resistance:
1. Alloying Elements: A242 corten steel contains alloying elements such as copper, chromium, nickel, and phosphorus. These elements form a dense, adherent oxide layer on the surface of the steel, which acts as a barrier against corrosive agents.
2. Self-Repairing Oxide Layer: When exposed to the atmosphere, A242 corten steel develops a patina, a natural oxide layer that continuously reforms and regenerates over time. This self-repairing property helps prevent further corrosion and maintains the structural integrity of the steel.
3. Limited Maintenance Requirements: The corrosion-resistant nature of A242 corten steel reduces the need for frequent maintenance and painting, making it a preferred choice for outdoor structures in various weather conditions.
4. Environmental Factors: A242 corten steel's corrosion resistance is particularly pronounced in atmospheres with high levels of moisture, salt, or pollutants, making it suitable for applications in coastal, industrial, and urban environments.
These characteristics make A242 corten steel highly resistant to corrosion, allowing it to withstand exposure to the elements and prolong the lifespan of structures in diverse outdoor settings.
Chemical Composition For Corten Steel ASTM A242 Type 1 Plate & Sheet
| Corten – A | ASTM 588 Grade A | ASTM 242 TYPE -1 | IRSM 41 -97 | |
| Carbon, Max | 0.12 | 0.19 | 0.15 | 0.10 |
| Manganese | 0.20-50 | 0.80-1.25 | 1.00 | 0.25-0.45 |
| Phosphorus | 0.07-0.15 | 0.04 | 0.15 | 0.07-0.11 |
| Sulphur, max | 0.030 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.030 |
| Silicon | 0.25-0.75 | 0.30-0.65 | 0.25-0.40 | 0.28-0.72 |
| Nickel, max | 0.65 | 0.40 | – | 0.20-0.49 |
| Chromium | 0.50-1.25 | 0.40-065 | – | 0.30-0.50 |
| Molybdenum, max | – | – | – | – |
| Copper | 0.25-0.55 | 0.25-0.40 | 0.20 min | 0.30-0.39 |
| Vanadium | – | 0.02-0.10 | – | 0.050 |
| Aluminimum | – | … | – | 0.030 |
Mechanical properties of corten steel ASTM A242 Type 1 plates & Sheets
| Tensile Strength | Min. Yield Point | Elongation | |
| CORTEN A | [470 – 630 MPa] | [355 MPa] | 20 % min |
| ASTM 588 GR. A | [485 MPa] | [345 MPa] | 21% min |
| ASTM 242 TYPE -1 | [480 MPa] | [345 MPa] | 16% min |
| IRSM 41- 97 | [480 MPa] | [340 MPa] | 21% min |


FAQ
What is material code A242?
ASTM A242 material is a low alloy structural steel that has high strength. It comes with improved resistance to corrosion and high temperatures. ASTM A242 plate is usually supplied in normalized/ quenched and tempered condition. The ASTM A242 strips can be found in the Industrial air pollution stacks, water tanks, etc.
What is the grade of Corten 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 A606 for thin sheet. All alloys are in common production and use.
What is spa grade?
Spa-grade products are also commonly referred to as "cosmeceuticals." You can buy these products from online retailers (like myself!) or visit your esthetician or dermatologist to buy them. If you're looking for some serious #skingoals, these formulas are highly recommended to get you the results you want.
What is a cheaper alternative to Corten steel?
Mild Steel does not form a protective layer but aesthetically is very similar to Corten Steel. Corten starts to develop its trademark Patina quicker than Mild Steel. Mild Steel is a more cost-effective alternative to Corten for those budget-conscious gardeners.
What is the ASTM A242 steel equivalent to?
The superior ASTM A242 steel properties allow this steel to be used in different applications. The ASTM A242 steel equivalent grade is bs-6323-5/6, JIS g3445, ASTM A214, ASTM A424 gr 1, din 17177, and EN 10217-1/2.
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.






