Steel is an important component in the world’s construction, engineering and manufacturing. Not only does it provide strength and durability to buildings and infrastructure, it is also highly versatile and can be used to create many different products. In the UK, the main steel grades are S235, S275 and S355, which indicate the chemical and mechanical properties of the steel. These grade designations come from the British Standard which specifies the requirements for structural steel products.
The S235 steel grade is used in general engineering applications, including the construction of bridges, buildings and all kinds of structures, such as the post-tensioned bridge in London’s Waterloo Station. It is also used in many construction and manufacturing applications, such as the manufacture of tanks, bus and truck chassis, lifting equipment and container building. S235 steel is a mild steel grade and is easily weldable with a minimum yield strength of 235 MPa.
The S275 steel grade is used where greater strength or better ductility is required, events such as rolling and bending require it to have a higher strength than ordinary mild carbon steel. Structural applications that require higher strength such as bridges and buildings often use S275 steel. In addition, it is frequently used in the manufacturing of robotic arms, conveyor belts and tower structures. S275 steel products have a minimum yield strength of 275 MPa, thereby making them highly suitable for a variety of uses.
The S355 steel grade is the higher strength version of S275 and is widely used for applications such as vessels for ships, wind turbines and poles, cranes, earth-moving equipment, trucks, trailers and heavy-duty automobiles. In addition, it is widely used in the construction of oil rigs, pressure vessels and the manufacture of various kinds of equipment. S355 steel has a minimum yield strength of 355 Mpa and is widely used in construction, engineering and manufacturing.
In the UK, grade designation systems are very important as they allow manufacturers to ensure the steel meets the requirements of the customer. Each grade designation provides information about the chemical and mechanical properties of the steel, enabling manufacturers to produce steel that is fit for purpose. This means that different end products can be created from steel with different grades, allowing for greater flexibility and customisation. Steel grade designations are very important in the UK and are used in many industries and applications worldwide.
