European structural steel grades can be classified according to the following categories:
1. Carbon Steel (CS) – These are typically medium-to-high carbon steels that exhibit greater strength and toughness than the carbon steels. Commonly-used grades include S235, S275 and S355.
2. High Strength Low Alloy Steels (HSLA) – These are designed to provide higher strength with improved formability and good weldability. Commonly-used HSLA steel grades include S355J2, S420, S460, and S690.
3. Weathering, Corrosion Resistant and Structural Steels (WRCS) – These are steel grades which are designed to resist atmospheric corrosion, often in coastal and heavily polluted locations. Commonly-used weathering and corrosion resistant steel grades include S235J2W, S355J2W, and Corten A.
4. Stainless Steel (SS) – This is a family of steel grades that are typically used in the food and pharmaceutical industries due to their excellent corrosion resistance and strength. Commonly-used stainless steel grades include 304L and 316L.
5. Quenched and Tempered (Q&T) Steel – Used in high-strength applications that require moderate ductility and toughness, these are typically quenched and tempered alloy steels with tensile strengths up to 1100MPa. Commonly-used Q&T steel grades include S690QL, S890QL and S960QL.
6. Special Steels – These are steels with specific chemical composition and mechanical properties. Special steels are usually developed for specific applications, such as aerospace or automotive engineering, and include PM (precision mould), Sanicro, and Maraging steels.
7. Tool Steels – These are a group of high-carbon, high-alloy steels which are heat-treated for hardness and wear-resistance. Commonly-used tool steels include H13, D2 and M2.
