Corten Steel Specification

Corten Steel Specification

This blog is all about Corten Steel. We provide easy-to-understand information about its specifications and ASTM standards. Whether you’re an architect, builder, designer, or just curious about this unique material, you’ll find helpful information here.

Corten steel (often referred to as Cor–Ten) is a weather-resistant steel that could more accurately be termed as an “Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Steel”.

It is a copper chromium alloy steel – this alloy displays a greater level of resistance to atmospheric weathering when compared to other unalloyed steels. Its chemical composition promotes the early formation of an adhering protective layer of rust when exposed to the elements.

Aesthetically pleasing to the eye, this finish has become popular with many high-profile architects and has been specified and used in a variety of applications including building fascias, architectural sculptures, and bridges.

Cor-Ten Steel Specification

Cor-Ten® is the United States Steel Corporation (USS) trade name for an atmospheric corrosion-resistant steel it was developed to be used where higher strength and longer life cycle material were desired. These steels naturally form a layer of rust or patina when exposed to various atmospheric conditions. This patina is what guards this material against future corrosion. As Cor-Ten became more popular over the years other producing mills began to develop their own atmospheric corrosion-resistant steel. Therefore, ASTM stepped in to create what is considered equivalent to ASTM Corten steel specifications to Cor-Ten® in most applications. The applicable equivalent ASTM Corten steel specifications are ASTM A588, A242, A606-4, A847 and A709-50W.

Explore Corten Steel Specifications, ideal for projects requiring durability and a unique, stylish finish.

ASTM A588 Specification

ASTM A588 is a high-strength, low-alloy structural steel with enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance. It is used for various structural components like angles, channels, beams, steel plates, and bars. Designed for welded bridges and structures, A588 steel offers weight savings and increased durability, contributing to a longer life cycle due to its corrosion-resistant properties.

A588 steel outperforms carbon steels like A36 and A572-50 in atmospheric corrosion resistance, even without copper. It is suitable for many unpainted applications when exposed to the elements. With a minimum yield strength of 50 ksi and a minimum tensile strength of 70 ksi, ASTM A588 provides excellent strength and resilience, making it ideal for projects requiring high strength and corrosion resistance.

ASTM A242 Specification

ASTM A242, a high-strength low-alloy structural steel specification, is designed with enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance. Typically applied to steel plates up to one-half inch in thickness, this specification offers durability and resilience in challenging environmental conditions.

The corrosion resistance of A242 outperforms that of carbon steels like A36 and A572-50, regardless of copper addition. When exposed to the atmosphere, A242 proves suitable for various applications in its unpainted state.

ASTM A242 has a 50 ksi minimum yield strength and a 70 ksi minimum tensile strength, making it a strong choice for projects where both strength and corrosion resistance are key considerations.

ASTM A606-4: Enhanced Corrosion Resistance in High-Strength Alloy Steel

ASTM A606-4 stands as a high-strength, low-alloy specification, specifically made for improved atmospheric corrosion properties. This specification covers hot and cold-rolled steel sheets, strips, and coils, designed for use in structural and miscellaneous applications where considerations of weight savings and added durability hold significance. A606-4 incorporates additional alloying elements, delivering a corrosion resistance level significantly superior to that of carbon steels, whether or not copper is added. When appropriately designed and exposed to the atmosphere, A606-4 can be utilized bare (unpainted) in numerous applications.

With a 50 ksi minimum yield strength and a 70 ksi minimum tensile strength, ASTM A606-4 exemplifies robustness, making it a reliable choice for projects prioritizing both strength and corrosion resistance.

ASTM A709-50W Specification

ASTM A709-50W is a standard specification for structural steel in bridges. ASTM A709-50W covers high-strength, low-alloy steel structural shapes, plates, and bars. The atmospheric corrosion resistance of this steel in most environments is substantially better than carbon steel with or without copper addition. ASTM A709-50W shall have an atmospheric corrosion index of 6.00 or higher. When properly designed and exposed to the atmosphere, A709-50W is suitable for many applications in bare (unpainted) conditions.

ASTM A871-65 Specification

ASTM A871-65 is a high-strength low-alloy structural steel plate with improved atmospheric corrosion resistance. This specification provides for a 65 ksi minimum yield strength and an 80 ksi minimum tensile strength the atmospheric corrosion resistance of this steel in most environments is substantially better than that of carbon steels with or without copper addition. When properly designed and exposed to the atmosphere, this steel can be used bare (unpainted) for many applications. The primary application for A871-65 is transmission and lighting poles as an aesthetically pleasing alternative to a galvanized structure.

ASTM A572-65

ASTM A572-65 is a high-strength low-alloy columbium-vanadium structural steel. This specification provides for a 65 ksi minimum yield strength and an 80 ksi minimum tensile strength. The primary application for ASTM A572-65 is galvanized transmission and lighting poles. We purchase this grade with a limited .05 Max Silicon content to facilitate the subsequent galvanizing process. ASTM A572-65 is supplied to meet a Charpy V-Notch test of 15 ft/LB at -20F.

ASTM A847 Specification

ASTM A847 is a high strength low alloy steel covering cold-formed welded square and rectangular tubing and pipe. The atmospheric corrosion resistance of this steel in most environments is substantially better than carbon steel with or without copper addition. ASTM A847 is intended for welded, bolted, or riveted construction of bridges and other structures where high strength and enhanced corrosion resistance are required. When properly designed and exposed to the atmosphere, A847 can be used bare (unpainted) for many applications.

ASTM A847 has a 50 ksi minimum yield strength and a 70 ksi minimum tensile strength.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Corten Steel’s specifications make it an excellent choice for projects that require both durability and a distinctive look. Its natural rust layer provides built-in corrosion resistance, reducing maintenance needs. Versatile in architecture, landscaping, and industrial applications, Corten steel stands out for its strength, low maintenance, and unique appearance making it ideal for long-lasting projects. For more details, visit Corten Steel Tube.

FAQ’s

ASTM specifications for Corten steel include ASTM A588, A242, A606-4, A709-50W, A871-65, A572-65, and A847.
ASTM A588 is ideal for structural components like angles, channels, beams, steel plates, and bars, especially in welded bridges and structures due to its high strength and corrosion resistance.
ASTM A242 offers superior atmospheric corrosion resistance and is commonly used for steel plates up to one-half inch in thickness in unpainted applications.
ASTM A847 is used for square and rectangular tubing and pipe in welded, bolted, or riveted construction of bridges and other structures requiring high strength and corrosion resistance.

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