Different Type and Grades of Corten Steel
Corten steel is a renowned material, especially prized for its exceptional performance in extreme weather conditions. Its remarkable weather and corrosion resistance make it a top choice for structures exposed to harsh environments. However, despite its widespread popularity, sourcing Corten steel can present challenges compared to standard Euronorm designated materials.
Let’s explore the different types and grades of Corten Steel in this blog.
Weathering Steel: A Self-Protecting Material
Weathering steel, also known as Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Steel, is an affordable and effective choice for structures exposed to outdoor elements.
When exposed to air pollutants, weathering steel forms a rust layer that acts as a protective barrier, preventing further corrosion. This self-protecting quality eliminates the need for painting or additional treatments.
It finds wide use in structural applications, particularly in bridge construction due to low maintenance costs. It’s also popular in modern architecture for its pleasing finish, used in sculptural buildings and fascias.
Corten Steel Tube offers a range of weathering steel with benefits like major stockholding, global shipping, various plate widths and thicknesses, quick turnaround, precise cutting and profiling services, and high-quality steel from renowned European mills.
Corten Steel: Weather Resistant and Aesthetic
Corten steel, also known as Cor-Ten, is a weather-resistant steel that could be more accurately described as an “Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Steel.”
It’s a copper chromium alloy that offers higher resistance to atmospheric weathering compared to regular steels. Its chemical makeup encourages the early formation of a protective rust layer when exposed to the elements.
This unique rust finish is visually appealing, making it popular among architects for various applications such as building facades, sculptures, and bridges.
Corten steel’s protective layer undergoes a continuous process of development and regeneration, reacting with atmospheric pollutants. When considering its use for structural purposes, especially in demanding environments, careful attention to thickness is crucial for ensuring structural integrity alongside aesthetic appeal.
Different Types & Grades of Corten Steel
- Corten A
- Corten B
Corten A Weathering Steel
Corten A is a weather-resistant steel made by blending copper, chromium, and nickel. It also contains phosphorous, making it ideal for gas flue applications and aesthetic facades. However, it’s not recommended for heavy load-bearing uses where Corten B or S355J2W are better options.
When exposed to the atmosphere, Corten A forms a rust-colored protective layer on its surface. This layer not only requires minimal maintenance but also adds to the steel’s aesthetic appeal, providing a consistent and pleasing finish.
In the following sections, we’ll explore more about the applications and benefits of Corten A, as well as alternatives for different structural requirements.
Corten A Steel Grades & Equivalents
| Grades | Equivalents |
|---|---|
| CORTEN | EN 10025-5:2004 |
| Corten A | S355JOWP |
Corten A Mechanical Properties
| Grade | Thickness (mm) Strip Products | Plate Products | Yield Strength Rel N/mm² Minimum | Tensile Strength Rm N/mm² Minimum | Elongation A50 % Minimum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corten A | 2-12 | 6-12 | 345 | 485 | 20 |
Chemical Composition of Corten A
| Weather resistant steel | C | Mn | P | S | Si | Cr | Ni | Mo | Cu |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corten-A | 0.12 | 0.20-0.50 | 0.070-0.150 | 0.030 | 0.25-0.75 | 0.50-1.25 | 0.65 | – | 0.25-0.55 |
| IRS M-41 | 0.10 | 0.25-0.45 | 0.075-0.112 | 0.030 | 0.28-0.72 | 0.35-0.49 | 0.20-0.49 | – | 0.30-0.39 |
| ASTM A 588 | 0.20 | 0.75-1.30 | 0.04 MAX | 0.050 | 0.15-0.50 | 0.30-050 | 0.50 MAX | – | 0.20-0.40 |
Corten B Weathering Steel
Corten B is a weather-resistant steel designed for heavy and load-bearing structures. It forms its own protective layer when exposed to the elements, which helps preserve the steel underneath.
The natural rust finish of Corten B typically doesn’t need painting or maintenance, making it a cost-effective choice compared to other structural steels. However, in continuously wet conditions, such as at the base of a structure or partially submerged, regular maintenance and painting may be necessary to prevent corrosion.
For technical specifications, please see below:
Corten B Grades & Equivalents
| Corten | EN 10025-5:2004 |
|---|---|
| Corten B | S355J2W |
Corten B Mechanical Properties
| Grade | Thickness (mm) Strip Products | Plate Products | Yield Strength Rel N/mm² Minimum | Tensile Strength Rm N/mm² Minimum | Elongation A50 % Minimum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corten B | 2-13 | 6-40 | 345 | 485 | 19 |
Corten B Steel Chemical Composition
| % | |
|---|---|
| C | 0.19 |
| Si | 0.30/0.65 |
| Mn | 0.80/1.25 |
| P | 0.035 |
| S | 0.030 |
| Al | 0.020/0.06 |
| V | 0.02/0.10 |
| Cu | 0.25/0.40 |
| Cr | 0.40/0.65 |
| Ni | 0.40 |
S355J0WP: A Reliable Structural Steel
S355J0WP is a structural weathering steel, also known as atmospheric corrosion-resistant steel. It contains chromium, nickel, copper, and phosphorus, which give it excellent self-protecting properties. When exposed to the atmosphere, it develops a rust layer that shields the steel from corrosion.
This grade, equivalent to Corten A, offers a durable and cost-effective solution for structural applications. It’s commonly used in steel bridges, stack gas applications, and architecturally designed buildings due to its appealing rust finish.
S355JOWP Grades & Equivalents
| EN 10025-5:2004 | Corten |
|---|---|
| S355JOWP | Corten A |
S355JOWP Mechanical Properties
| Grade | Min. Yield Strength ReH MPa | Tensile Strength Rm MPa | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nominal Thickness (mm) | Nominal Thickness (mm) | ||||||||
| <16 | >16 <40 | >40 <63 | >63 <80 | >80 <100 | >100 <150 | >3 | >3 <100 | >100 <150 | |
| S355JOWP | 355 | 345 | 510/680 | 470/630 |
Chemical Composition of S355JOWP
| % | |
|---|---|
| C | 0.12 |
| Si | 0.75 |
| Mn | 1.00 |
| P | 0.06/0.15 |
| S | 0.035 |
| N | 0.009 |
| Cr | 0.30/1.25 |
| Cu | 0.25/0.55 |
S355J0W Weathering Steel
S355J0W is a weathering steel, similar to S355J0WP, and is equivalent to Corten B in terms of its properties.
When exposed to the atmosphere, S355J0W rusts and develops its own protective layer, preventing further oxidation. This natural protection makes it an excellent and cost-effective choice for structures in harsh weather conditions, eliminating the need for painting or external treatments.
S355J0W is commonly used for structures requiring thinner materials, offering durable protection against atmospheric elements.
S355J0W Grades & Equivalents
| EN 10025-5:2004 | Corten |
|---|---|
| S355JOW | Corten B |
S355JOW Mechanical Properties
| Grade | Min. Yield Strength ReH MPa | Tensile Strength Rm MPa | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nominal Thickness (mm) | Nominal Thickness (mm) | ||||||||
| <16 | >16 <40 | >40 <63 | >63 <80 | >80 <100 | >100 <150 | >3 | >3 <100 | >100 <150 | |
| S355JOW | 355 | 345 | 335 | 325 | 315 | 295 | 510/680 | 470/630 | 450/600 |
S355JOW Chemical Composition
| % | |
|---|---|
| C | 0.16 |
| Si | 0.50 |
| Mn | 0.50/1.50 |
| P | 0.035 |
| S | 0.035 |
| N | 0.009 |
| Cr | 0.40/0.80 |
| Cu | 0.25/0.55 |
S355J2W Weather Resistant Steel
S355J2W is a weather-resistant steel designed for load-bearing and heavy structures, boasting greater impact strength and suitability for low-temperature environments.
Similar to other weather-resistant steels, S355J2W develops a protective rust layer over time, providing a barrier against further oxidation. This self-protection makes it economical and fully recyclable, suitable for both functional and aesthetic purposes without the need for costly treatments or painting.
Benefits of Using S355J2W
- Excellent impact strength, ideal for heavy-duty applications.
- Suitable for low-temperature environments.
- No need for expensive treatments or painting over time.
- Popular choice for architects due to its aesthetic appeal, often used in steel sculptures and modern structures.
S355J2W Grades & Equivalents
| EN 10025-5:2004 | Corten |
|---|---|
| S355J2W | Corten B |
Mechanical Properties of S355J2W
| Grade | Min. Yield Strength ReH MPa | Tensile Strength Rm MPa | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nominal Thickness (mm) | Nominal Thickness (mm) | ||||||||
| <16 | >16 <40 | >40 <63 | >63 <80 | >80 <100 | >100 <150 | >3 | >3 <100 | >100 <150 | |
| S355J2W | 355 | 345 | 335 | 325 | 315 | 295 | 510/680 | 470/630 | 450/600 |
S355J2W Chemical Composition
| % | |
|---|---|
| C | 0.16 |
| Si | 0.50 |
| Mn | 0.50/1.50 |
| P | 0.030 |
| S | 0.030 |
| N | 0.009 |
| Cr | 0.40/0.80 |
| Cu | 0.25/0.55 |
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Corten Steel for Your Project
In conclusion, Corten steel offers a range of types and grades suited for diverse applications in construction, architecture, and art. Understanding the properties and characteristics of each type is crucial for selecting the right material for your project.
- Corten A: Ideal for aesthetic facades and gas flue applications, Corten A’s self-protecting qualities make it a cost-effective choice. However, it’s not recommended for heavy load-bearing structures.
- Corten B: Designed for heavy and load-bearing structures, Corten B forms its own protective layer, reducing maintenance costs. Regular painting may be needed in continually wet conditions.
- S355J0WP: Equivalent to Corten A, S355J0WP offers excellent self-protection and is suitable for various applications, including steel bridges and sculptural buildings.
- S355J2W: With greater impact strength and suitability for low-temperature environments, S355J2W is a versatile option for load-bearing structures and aesthetic designs.
In choosing the right Corten steel grade, consider factors such as structural requirements, environmental conditions, maintenance needs, and aesthetic preferences. Consultation with steel suppliers and experts can provide valuable insights to ensure the success of your project.
Explore the diverse possibilities of Corten steel and unleash its potential in creating durable, visually appealing, and sustainable structures for the future.