ASTM A588
ASTM A588 is a specification for high-strength, low-alloy structural steel with atmospheric corrosion resistance, which is also referred to as weathering steel. This specification outlines three chemical compositions: A, B, and K. ASTM A588 defines three strength levels for plates and bars depending on the thickness. For material up to 4” thick, the mechanical properties are 70 ksi minimum tensile strength, 50 minimum yield strength, and 18% minimum elongation.
grades designations
A Yield strength, tensile strength, and elongation guaranteed in the transverse direction
ASTM A588 Characteristics
Property
specification
Defined Sizes
ASTM A588 defines plates and bars up to eight inches thick.
Ease of Fabrication
Welding, thermal cutting, and basic forming can usually be accomplished without difficulty.
Weldability
Increased carbon content is associated with increased hardenability, leading to the risk of cracking after welding. ASTM A588 has slightly lower carbon limits than ASTM A606, a similar weathering steel specification for sheet and strip.
Steel Warehouse can limit carbon contents to improve thermal cutting, formability, and welding performance.
Thermal Cutting
Laser and plasma cutting is similar to weldability in terms of the heated cut edge hardening and cracking.
Bendability
ASTM A588 refers to ASTM A6 for bending guarantees.
Available Customizations
Notes from the Technical Group
- Weathering steel develops a patina on the surface that has protective characteristics. Weathering steel is not rust-proof; in the presence of water, either through standing water, high humidity, contact with soil, etc., it will corrode.
- ASTM A588 discusses a “atmospheric corrosion-resistance index.” This can be found in ASTM G101, the Standard Guide for Estimating the Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance of Low-Alloy Steel. Two methods are outlined for estimating the atmospheric corrosion resistance of weathering steels, with the basis being either short-term test results or chemical composition.
