Comparative Study of A588 Grade A Weathering Steel and Common Steel

Weathering steel, also known as corten steel, is a high-strength low-alloy steel that forms a protective oxide layer when exposed to the elements. This layer, which is a rust-like appearance, protects the steel from further corrosion and eliminates the need for painting. A588 Grade A Weathering Steel is a type of weathering steel that has high corrosion resistance properties and is used in various applications, especially in the construction industry. In this article, we will compare A588 Grade A Weathering Steel with Common Steel.

Composition

A588 Grade A Weathering Steel is a high-strength low-alloy steel that is composed of copper, chromium, nickel, and phosphorus. The copper in the steel forms a protective layer when exposed to the elements, which inhibits further corrosion. Chromium and nickel are added to the steel to increase its toughness and resistance to weathering. Phosphorus is added to enhance the strength of the steel.

On the other hand, Common Steel is a low carbon steel that is composed of iron, carbon, and small amounts of other elements such as manganese, silicon, sulfur, and phosphorus. It is the most widely used type of steel in various applications such as construction, machinery, and transportation.

Strength and Durability

A588 Grade A Weathering Steel has high strength and durability as it has a minimum tensile strength of 70 ksi (480 MPa) and a minimum yield strength of 50 ksi (345 MPa). The steel also has good toughness and is resistant to fracture under impact.

Common Steel, on the other hand, has lower strength and durability compared to A588 Grade A Weathering Steel. Its tensile strength is around 400-550 MPa and its yield strength is around 220-350 MPa. The steel is less resilient to fracture under impact.

Corrosion Resistance

A588 Grade A Weathering Steel has excellent corrosion resistance properties, which makes it suitable for use in outdoor applications. The steel forms a protective oxide layer when exposed to the elements, which inhibits further corrosion. The steel is also resistant to atmospheric corrosion such as acid rain, salt spray, and other harsh weather conditions.

Common Steel, on the other hand, is prone to corrosion when exposed to the elements. It requires regular maintenance and painting to protect it from further corrosion.

Weldability and Formability

A588 Grade A Weathering Steel is easy to weld as it has low carbon content and is compatible with various welding methods such as SMAW, GTAW, and GMAW. The steel is also easy to form as it has good ductility and can be bent, rolled, and shaped according to the application requirements.

Common Steel is also easy to weld and form, but it requires preheating and post-weld heat treatment to prevent distortion and improve its strength.

Cost

A588 Grade A Weathering Steel is more expensive compared to Common Steel due to its high strength, durability, and corrosion resistance properties. The steel is also more specialized and requires special handling and processing during manufacturing.

Common Steel, on the other hand, is widely available and is less expensive compared to A588 Grade A Weathering Steel.

Applications

A588 Grade A Weathering Steel is commonly used in various applications such as bridges, buildings, railcars, transmission towers, and offshore structures. The steel is also used in landscaping and architectural applications due to its unique rust-like appearance.

Common Steel is used in various applications such as construction, machinery, and transportation. It is also used in the manufacturing of household and industrial appliances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, A588 Grade A Weathering Steel is a high-strength low-alloy steel that has high corrosion resistance properties and is ideal for use in outdoor applications. The steel is more expensive compared to Common Steel but is highly specialized and requires special handling during manufacturing. Common Steel, on the other hand, is a low carbon steel that is widely used and is less expensive compared to A588 Grade A Weathering Steel. It requires regular maintenance to prevent further corrosion and is ideal for use in indoor applications.