Common Steel Grade Marking Examples
Steel is one of the most important materials used in construction and manufacturing. Buildings, bridges, ships and even cars require steel components to be able to perform as designed. However, different grades of steel are used in different applications. To help identify the right steel grade for each application, steel grades are labeled with a set of numbers and letters. Here are some common examples of steel grade marking.
1. Hot-rolled mild steel
Hot-rolled mild steel is the most common type of steel for everyday use. Hot-rolled steel is labeled according to its chemical composition. For example, SS400 is the designation for a low-carbon mild steel where the SS indicates that it contains structural steel materials. The number 400 identifies the yield strength, which is about 400MPa. Other structural grades of steel for hot-rolled mild steel include Q235, Q345, etc.
2. Cold-rolled steel
Cold-rolled steel is another type of steel used in various applications. It is often used to create thin sheets and other components, since cold-rolling strengthens the material by decreasing the grain size. Cold-rolled steel can also be labeled according to its chemical composition, such as DC01, which is similar to SS400. The DC stands for Deep Drawing Quality and the number 01 identifies the yield strength at about 280MPa.
3. Tool steel
Tool steel is used to make various cutting, drilling and shaping tools. This type of steel is labeled according to its application. For example, H13 is a multi-purpose tool steel grade with superior hot hardness, toughness and wear resistance. The H13 designation indicates that this steel has a simple composition, with elements like chromium, vanadium and molybdenum.
4. High carbon and alloy steel
High carbon and alloy steel is used for applications that require strength and durability. This type of steel is labeled with a set of numbers and letters that indicates the amount of carbon, alloying elements and other properties. For example, 4130 is a multi-purpose alloy steel grade with a carbon content as high as 0.3%. The number 4130 indicates the carbon content at 0.3%, with the remaining parts from chromium and molybdenum. Other high carbon and alloy steel grades include 1045 and 4140.
5. Stainless steel
Lastly, stainless steel is used in many applications, ranging from kitchen appliances to medical devices. Stainless steel is labeled according to its composition and properties, such as 410 and 316. The number 410 indicates this grade is a martensitic stainless steel, which has excellent corrosion resistance and strength. On the other hand, the number 316 identifies this grade as an austenitic stainless steel, which offers superior corrosion resistance and strength.
These are just some of the common steel grade marking examples. By familiarizing yourself with these codes, youll be able to accurately identify the right type of steel for your needs. Whether youre looking for an operation-specific alloy or a more general-purpose grade, youll be able to find the right steel grade for any application.
