Bethlehem Steel ASTM A588 Grade A, steel

Bethlehem Steel ASTM A588 Grade A 3/16 to 4 in. thick, steel plate Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Bethlehem Steel ASTM A588 Grade A 3/16 to 4 in. thick, steel plate Synonyms -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Bethlehem Steel ASTM A588 Grade A 3/16 to 4 in. thick, steel plate Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: ## **Product Specification: Bethlehem Steel ASTM A588 Grade A Steel Plate (3/16" to 4" Thick)** **Product Overview** Bethlehem Steel ASTM A588 Grade A is a high-strength low-alloy structural steel plate specifically formulated for enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance, providing approximately four times the corrosion resistance of plain carbon steels. This weathering steel develops a dense, adherent protective oxide layer (patina) when exposed to the atmosphere, eliminating the need for protective painting in many applications. Available in thicknesses from 3/16 inch (4.8 mm) to 4 inches (101.6 mm), Grade A offers a minimum yield strength of 50 ksi (345 MPa) across this entire range, making it a versatile and economical choice for exposed structural applications where durability, aesthetics, and reduced maintenance are priorities. **International Standard Compliance** * **Primary Standard:** **ASTM A588 / A588M** - Standard Specification for High-Strength Low-Alloy Structural Steel with 50 ksi [345 MPa] Minimum Yield Point to 4 in. [100 mm] Thick. * **Grade Designation:** Grade A. * **Related U.S. Specifications:** * **AASHTO M222:** Standard specification for structural steel for bridges (Grade A). * **AWS D1.1:** Recognized as a prequalified base metal for welding (Group II, comparable). * **International Equivalents (Closest Comparable):** * **EN Standard:** EN 10025-5: **S355J0WP** or **S355J2WP**. The "P" denotes phosphorus-alloyed weathering steel, which closely matches the chemistry and intent of A588 Grade A. The J0/J2 indicates impact toughness levels. * **JIS Standard:** JIS G3114: **SMA400AW, SMA400BW, or SMA400CW**. The "A" series are weathering steels, though strength levels may vary slightly. * **ISO Standard:** ISO 4952: **WR 50A**. This ISO weathering steel grade is a direct functional equivalent. * **Common Industry Names:** Often referred to generically as "weathering steel" or by the trademark **Cor-Ten A**, which is a similar proprietary product. Bethlehem may have used proprietary names like "Bethalume" for their weathering line. **Chemical Composition (Heat Analysis, Weight %)** The composition of A588 Grade A is distinct from Grade B and is designed to form a stable, self-protecting rust layer. **Phosphorus (P) is a key intentional alloying element** for corrosion resistance in this grade. | Element | ASTM A588 Grade A Requirement | Typical Bethlehem Practice / Notes | Primary Function | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Carbon (C)** | 0.19% max (for shapes & bars); Plate comp. often aligns with this. | 0.10 - 0.19% | Provides base strength. Lower end improves weldability. | | **Manganese (Mn)** | 0.80 - 1.25% | 0.90 - 1.20% | Increases strength and hardenability. | | **Phosphorus (P)** | 0.04 - 0.10% | **0.07 - 0.09%** | **Critical.** Major contributor to atmospheric corrosion resistance by aiding in the formation of a dense, adherent patina. | | **Sulfur (S)** | 0.05% max | 0.008 - 0.020% | Impurity kept low for weldability and toughness. | | **Silicon (Si)** | 0.30 - 0.65% | 0.40 - 0.60% | Deoxidizer during steelmaking; enhances strength and corrosion resistance of the patina. | | **Copper (Cu)** | 0.25 - 0.40% | 0.25 - 0.35% | Essential for corrosion resistance. Minimum 0.20% is required for the weathering characteristic. | | **Chromium (Cr)** | 0.40 - 0.65% | 0.45 - 0.60% | Improves corrosion resistance and strengthens the oxide layer. | | **Nickel (Ni)** | 0.25 - 0.50% | 0.25 - 0.40% | Enhances toughness and corrosion resistance, particularly in industrial atmospheres. | | **Vanadium (V)** | 0.02 - 0.10% | 0.03 - 0.07% (optional) | Grain refiner; provides precipitation strengthening. | | **Carbon Equivalent (CE IIW)** | Calculated Value | **Typically 0.38 - 0.44** | CE = C + Mn/6 + (Cr+Mo+V)/5 + (Ni+Cu)/15. Important for assessing weldability. | **Note:** For plates over 2" thick, Bethlehem may have employed modified practices (e.g., lower carbon, calcium treatment) to ensure through-thickness properties. --- **Physical & Mechanical Properties** **1. Standard Mechanical Properties (Room Temperature, Longitudinal):** * **Yield Strength (min):** 50 ksi (345 MPa) for all thicknesses up to 4 inches. * **Tensile Strength (min):** 70 ksi (485 MPa). * **Yield-to-Tensile Ratio:** Typically 0.70 - 0.78. * **Elongation in 2" (min):** * For thicknesses ≤ ¾" (19 mm): 21% * For thicknesses >¾" to 1½" (>19 to 38 mm): 19% * For thicknesses >1½" to 4" (>38 to 100 mm): 17% * **Elongation in 8" (min):** 18% (for thicknesses ≤ ¾"). **2. Corrosion Performance (Key Feature):** * **Comparative Corrosion Rate:** Demonstrates a corrosion rate approximately **4 to 6 times slower** than that of plain carbon steel (e.g., ASTM A36) in rural, urban, and industrial atmospheres. * **Patina Formation:** Upon exposure to wet/dry cycles, a tightly adherent oxide layer forms, typically stabilizing within **1 to 3 years**. This patina acts as a barrier to further oxygen and moisture ingress. * **Appearance:** The patina develops a characteristic, aesthetically pleasing dark russet-brown color. **3. Impact Properties:** * **Charpy V-Notch Impact Test:** Often specified for structural applications. Common requirement is **15 ft-lbf (20 J) minimum at +70°F (+21°C)**. Lower test temperatures (e.g., 0°F / -18°C) can be specified for colder climates. * **Through-Thickness Toughness:** For thicker plates (>1"), properties are consistent through the cross-section when produced with proper rolling and cooling practices. **4. Physical Constants:** * **Density:** 0.284 lb/in³ (7.85 g/cm³). * **Modulus of Elasticity:** 29,000 ksi (200 GPa). * **Poisson's Ratio:** 0.29. * **Coefficient of Thermal Expansion:** 6.5 x 10⁻⁶/°F (11.7 x 10⁻⁶/°C) from 68-212°F. * **Thermal Conductivity:** ~25 BTU·in/(hr·ft²·°F) at 212°F. **5. Technological Properties:** * **Weldability:** **Good.** Classified in **AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code - Steel, Group II**. Requires low-hydrogen welding processes (e.g., SMAW with E7018 electrodes, FCAW, SAW) for optimal results, especially in thicker sections. * **Preheat/Interpass Guidelines:** * Up to ¾" thick: Often not required for mild conditions. * >¾" to 2" thick: 150-250°F (65-120°C) recommended. * >2" to 4" thick: 200-300°F (95-150°C) recommended to prevent hydrogen-induced cracking. * **Machinability:** Fair to Good (approximately 65% of 1212 steel). Requires adequate power and sharp tooling. * **Formability:** Good. Can be cold-formed with recommended minimum bend radii of 2t to 3t (where t = thickness). * **Flame Cutting:** Performs well. The cut edge will weather similarly to the plate surface. --- **Product Applications** A588 Grade A is specified where the combination of strength, durability, and a maintenance-free finish is desired. * **Exposed Structural Framing:** Building columns, beams, and trusses for architectural effect. * **Bridges & Highway Structures:** Girders, fascia beams, guardrail posts, and sign supports. Its use eliminates the lifecycle cost of repainting. * **Transmission & Utility Towers:** For electrical transmission and lighting poles. * **Architectural Features:** Sculptures, sunscreens, decorative screens, and retaining walls. * **Industrial Structures:** Unpainted walkways, platforms, and equipment supports in non-severe chemical environments. * **Transportation Equipment:** Rail car components and container chassis. **Design & Fabrication Considerations for Weathering Steel** 1. **Weathering Requirement:** The protective patina requires alternating wet and dry cycles. It is **not suitable** for continuously submerged applications, severe marine splash zones, or environments with high levels of chlorides or industrial pollutants without special design consideration. 2. **Detailing:** Must avoid moisture traps, crevices, and areas where debris can collect and stay damp. 3. **Runoff:** The initial runoff from weathering steel (before the patina stabilizes) can stain adjacent concrete, masonry, or lighter-colored materials. Proper detailing (gutters, drip edges) is essential. 4. **Fasteners:** Should be made from weathering steel, stainless steel, or copper alloys to prevent galvanic corrosion. 5. **Welding Consumables:** Must use welding electrodes classified for weathering steel (e.g., AWS E7018-W1) to ensure the weld metal weathers at the same rate and matches the appearance of the base metal. **Availability & Procurement Notes** * While "Bethlehem Steel" branded plate is historical, steel meeting **ASTM A588 Grade A** is produced by major mills worldwide. * When ordering, specify: **ASTM A588 Grade A**, thickness, dimensions, and any special requirements (e.g., impact testing, ultrasonic testing, normalized condition for thicker plates). * Material is typically supplied in the **as-rolled** condition. **Normalized (A588 Grade AN)** may be specified for thicker plates or where enhanced toughness is required. --- **Disclaimer** This product description is based on the ASTM A588/A588M standard and historical industry data for illustrative purposes. For actual procurement and engineering design, always consult: 1. The latest official **ASTM A588/A588M** specification. 2. The certified **Mill Test Report (MTR)** for the specific heat/lot of material. 3. Applicable design codes (AISC, AASHTO, etc.) and welding codes (AWS D1.1). 4. Experienced professionals for weathering steel design and detailing. Performance can vary based on specific environmental conditions. -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Bethlehem Steel ASTM A588 Grade A 3/16 to 4 in. thick, steel plate Specification Dimensions Size： Diameter 20-1000 mm Length <4641 mm Size:We can customized as required Standard： Per your request or drawing We can customized as required Properties（Theoretical） Chemical Composition -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Bethlehem Steel ASTM A588 Grade A 3/16 to 4 in. thick, steel plate Properties -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Applications of Bethlehem Steel ASTM A588 Grade A 3/16 to 4 in. thick, steel plate -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Chemical Identifiers Bethlehem Steel ASTM A588 Grade A 3/16 to 4 in. thick, steel plate -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Packing of Bethlehem Steel ASTM A588 Grade A 3/16 to 4 in. thick, steel plate -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Standard Packing: -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Typical bulk packaging includes palletized plastic 5 gallon/25 kg. pails, fiber and steel drums to 1 ton super sacks in full container (FCL) or truck load (T/L) quantities. Research and sample quantities and hygroscopic, oxidizing or other air sensitive materials may be packaged under argon or vacuum. Solutions are packaged in polypropylene, plastic or glass jars up to palletized 1112 gallon liquid totes Special package is available on request. E FORUs’ is carefully handled to minimize damage during storage and transportation and to preserve the quality of our products in their original condition