ASTM A588 Corten Weathering Steel Supplier

the most common and frequently asked questions about ASTM A588 weathering steel

WHAT IS ASTM A588 WEATHERING STEEL?

ASTM A588 steel plate is a high strength, low-alloy (HSLA) structural steel specification with improved atmospheric corrosion resistance. The ASTM A588 specification is used mainly for bridges, freight cars and other structures where savings in weight or added durability is required along with longer life cycles due to the corrosion resistant properties in ASTM A588.

WHY DO I NEED ASTM A588 WEATHERING STEEL?

The atmospheric corrosion resistance of ASTM A588 is significantly better than A-36 and A572-50. The additional alloys of copper and nickel create an added durability that is not found in A-36. The coating that is created from the additional alloys makes ASTM A588 suitable for many applications in its unpainted condition. ASTM A588 has a 50ksi minimum yield strength and a 70ksi minimum tensile strength. If you are engineering or building any projects that require additional strength then you need ASTM A588.

WHAT TYPES OF STRUCTURAL SHAPES ARE PRODUCED FROM ASTM A588 WEATHERING STEEL?

There are multiple shapes and sizes that are produced from ASTM A588, these include the following: Plate, angles, channels, flat bar and beams. These shapes are produced in multiple sizes and lengths to accommodate both large and small jobs.

I SEE AND HEAR ASTM A588 AND ASTM A606-4 ARE BOTH WEATHERING STEEL. WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES?

They are both considered weathering steel. ASTM A606-4 is considered sheet product and is produced in both Hot Roll and Cold Roll.

ASTM A588 is considered weathering steel plate and weathering steel structural products. Both products have virtually the same alloy mix to create the protective rustic coating. However, ASTM A588 is a harder material (tensile strength) than A606-4 which is why it is beneficial for use on structural projects, both large and small.

IS ASTM A588 ONLY FOR LARGE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS?

The short answer is “NO”. Contractors, landscape companies, metal fabricators, artists and homeowners are utilizing ASTM A588 to create the “rustic” look for all kinds of projects. Landscape edging, retaining walls, gates, fences, signs are just a few applications that ASTM A588 is being used for.

CAN YOU CUT ASTM A588 PLATES TO SIZES AND SHAPES I NEED?

Yes. We offer CNC Precision Plasma Burning of your parts. We can handle parts up to 10’ wide and 55’ in length. Tapering, beveling, countersunk hole and laser cutting are just a few of the services that we offer. We can produce most parts that require special processes involving ASTM A588.