GB/T17616-1998 Steel and Alloy Grade Number Coding System
Introduction
The GB/T 17616-1998 Steel and Alloy Grade Number Coding System is an internationally accepted uniform numbering system and is used to classify and name ferrous (iron and steel) and alloy (aluminum and nickel) grades. The system is designed to be used for international comparison of grades of steel and alloys as it unites all grades into one uniform system.
The grade coding system was designed in 1998 and was created by experts working in the field of steel and alloy grades and developing international standards. The system was developed prior to the development of new grades of steel and alloy products and is based on already existing numbers, terms and symbols.
The GB/T 17616-1998 Steel and Alloy Grade Number Coding System, also referred to as the Grading Number Coding System (GNCS), simplifies the comparison, identification and communication of different grades of steel and alloys. The systems enable people, who are familiar and understand the systems, to communicate in a faster and more efficient manner, as well as reduce the time, energy and cost related to using legacy products or products that cannot be supported by the GNCS.
Background
Historically the steel and alloy industry was limited to producing a small number of grades and sizes of products, leading to fewer coding requirements and the need for fewer uniform coding systems. With the introduction of new products, new sizes, and new shapes, a larger coding system was needed as the industry quickly grew and evolved. This new system became known as the GB/T 17616-1998 Steel and Alloy Grade Number Coding System.
Features
The GB/T 17616-1998 Steel and Alloy Grade Number Coding System is composed of five different numbers, and two different letters. Each of these numbers is used to designate the grade of steel or alloy and the part that makes up the product.
The first three digits represent the alloy/metal (e.g. Al, Fe, Ni), and the following three digits identify the strength, hardness and tempering qualities of the steel (e.g. tensile strength). The last two letters identify any more specific attributes of the steel, such as the type of forming to which it has been subjected (e.g. hot rolled or cold rolled).
Conclusion
The GB/T 17616-1998 Steel and Alloy Grade Number Coding System is an internationally accepted uniform numbering system and is used to classify and name ferrous (iron and steel) and alloy (aluminum and nickel) grades. The system is designed to be used for international comparison of grades of steel and alloys as it unites all grades into one uniform system. The systems enables people, who are familiar and understand the systems, to communicate in a faster and more efficient manner, as well as reduce the time, energy and cost related to using legacy products or products that cannot be supported by the GNCS.
