ASTM A588 Weathering Steel Chinese Suppliers

ASTM A588 Weathering steel is a high-strength material designed to form a rust-like surface patina when left unfinished, eliminating the need to paint the material and protecting it from corrosion. Weathering steel can be used for welded, bolted or riveted structures, and common applications include outdoor sculptures, building facades, utility poles, rail cars and other structures that require high strength and enhanced corrosion resistance.

ASTM A588 Weathering Steel Chemical Composition

Elements: C (percent): 0.1 - 0.22 Chromium (percent): 0.4 - 0.65 Manganese (percent): 0.9 - 1.25 Copper (percent): 0.25 - 0.4 Iron (percent): 97 - 98.5 Phosphorus (percent): 0.04 Max Silicon (percent): 0.15 - 0.3 S (percent): 0.05 max

It is important to note that to form this protective layer, the weathering steel needs to be exposed to wet and dry cycles. If Corten steel is immersed in water or buried in wet ground, a protective rust layer will not form. Exposure to the marine environment or areas close to the ocean may also prevent a protective layer from forming in time to protect the steel below.

ASTM A588 Weathering steel is also widely used by architects and artists due to its corrosion-resistant properties. Artists and sculptors use weathering steel because the color of the protective rust layer continues to deepen with weather exposure, which many find visually appealing.