High Strength ASTM A588 Weather Resistant Steel Plate

ASTM A588 is a high strength, low alloy structural steel that is used in a number of applications where its high strength and excellent corrosion resistance are needed. It is also known as weathering steel, as its corrosion resistance property is due to the element’s ability to form a protective oxide layer on the surface of the steel.

This oxide layer, also called a patina, is formed due to the exposure of the steel to the atmosphere. This patina protects the steel from further corrosion and in this way, the corrosion rate is reduced significantly. ASTM A588 is therefore popular as a structural steel in outdoor applications where it is exposed to the elements.

In this article, we will discuss the main features of ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate.

Chemical Composition of ASTM A588 Weather Resistant Steel Plate

The chemical composition of ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate is as follows:

- Carbon: 0.20% max
- Manganese: 0.75-1.35%
- Phosphorus: 0.05% max
- Sulfur: 0.05% max
- Silicon: 0.15-0.50%
- Chromium: 0.40-0.65%
- Nickel: 0.25-0.40%
- Copper: 0.30-0.50%

Mechanical Properties of ASTM A588 Weather Resistant Steel Plate

The mechanical properties of ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate include:

- Yield strength: Min. 50 ksi (345 MPa)
- Tensile strength: Min. 70 ksi (485 MPa)
- Elongation: Min. 21%
- Impact resistance: 4 in. (100mm) min Charpy V-Notch test at -40°F (-40°C)

These properties make ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate a popular choice in applications where high strength and corrosion resistance are required.

Application of ASTM A588 Weather Resistant Steel Plate

ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate is commonly used in applications such as bridges, buildings and other structures where high strength and corrosion resistance are required. Some specific applications are:

- Construction of bridges and buildings
- Manufacturing of railway wagons, trucks, and trailers
- Construction of transmission towers and lighting poles
- Manufacturing of containers, tanks, and silos for storage of materials
- Agriculture and farm machinery
- Offshore and marine industries

Benefits of ASTM A588 Weather Resistant Steel Plate

ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate provides a number of benefits over conventional steel plate. Some of these benefits include:

1. High Strength: The high strength properties of ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate make it suitable for a wide range of structural applications.

2. Corrosion Resistance: The corrosion resistance properties of ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate make it ideal for use in outdoor applications.

3. Reduced Maintenance: The patina that forms on the surface of the steel reduces the need for painting and other maintenance work, thus reducing the overall cost of the project.

4. Aesthetically Pleasing: The patina that forms on the surface of the steel gives it a unique, natural appearance, which is aesthetically pleasing.

5. Longer Service Life: The corrosion resistance properties of ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate result in longer service life as compared to conventional steel plates.

ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate is a high strength, low alloy structural steel that is used in a number of applications where its high strength and excellent corrosion resistance are needed. It is known as weathering steel due to the property of forming a protective oxide layer on the surface of the steel. This oxide layer protects the steel from further corrosion and reduces the corrosion rate significantly.

ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate is commonly used in applications such as bridges, buildings, and other structures where high strength and corrosion resistance are required. Benefits of ASTM A588 weather resistant steel plate include high strength, corrosion resistance, reduced maintenance, aesthetically pleasing appearance, and longer service life.