Oxidation Resistance of A588 Grade C Weathering Steel

Oxidation resistance is the primary factor to consider when selecting A588 Grade C weathering steel for a specific application. Weathering steels are a group of steels that are more resistant to weathering than other steels due to the formation of a protective oxide film on their surface. This oxide film provides protection against further corrosion and is formed by a process called oxidation.

Oxidation resistance is Grade C weathering steel’s ability to retard the corrosion of the metal when exposed to a variety of environmental conditions. Through proper coating and pre-treatment, nominal oxidation resistance of A588 Grade C Weathering steel can be expected to last at least 10-15 years in urban and coastal environments. The higher nickel alloy metal content of A588 Grade C results in improved strength and greater structural performance when compared to traditional steel. Furthermore, its ability to resist oxidation allows it to remain unaffected by extreme weather conditions, allowing it to remain virtually maintenance free.

Nominal oxidation resistance of A588 Grade C Weathering steel is due in part to its high copper, chromium, and phosphate content. These elements combine to form a protective oxide layer on the surface. The combination of chromium and phosphorus has a synergistic effect, and aids in the oxidation resistance of the material by increasing the protective oxide coating and forming a protective oxide film which resists further corrosion. Additionally, nitrogen is present which also helps to resist oxidation in A588 Grade C.

When selecting weathering steel, corrosion environment and design life are other critical factors that must be considered, as the corrosion rate of A588 Grade C Weathering steel will vary with the environment it is exposed to and design life of the project. In more extreme environments, a heavy galvanizing or specialized A588grade C weathering steel coating with high level of metals such as zinc, aluminum, or nickel may be necessary in order to achieve nominal oxidation resistance of A588 Grade C, as deterioration in these environments may accelerate the corrosion process.

A588 Grade C weathering steel has a nominal oxidation resistance and is expected to last at least 10-15 years in urban and coastal environments. While the low alloy metal content of A588 Grade C weathering steel gives it strength and durability, its high copper, chromium and phosphate content contributes to its resistance to oxidation, making it virtually maintenance-free even in extreme environments. Proper Coating And pretreatment is important, which will extend the oxidation resistance of A588 Grade C, enabling it to be used in various environments.