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What is ASTM A242?

Corten Steel ASTM A242 Pipes & Tubes

A widely accepted standard specification exists for high strength, low alloy structural steel used in construction that is riveted, bolted, or welded: ASTM A242. This steel grade is specifically alloyed not for enhanced strength but for improved resistance to atmospheric corrosion compared to (and in a manner similar to) standard carbon steel. Indeed, the primary benefit of A242 is its ability to form a rust like appearance that is stable “a protective patina,” in the words of Mark J. T. Hoey, an architect associated with the construction of the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. and that, thus, prevents the zinc, aluminum, or manganese in the alloy from corroding further. The composition of the alloy steel can be tailored to achieve specific properties desired for the pipe. 

Various grades are available, including ASTM A423 Grade 1 Pipes, ASTM A709-50W Pipes, among others, offering versatility and suitability for a wide range of construction needs.

In addition to the pipes, we also offer two types of ASTM A242 Corten Steel Plate & Sheet:

ASTM A242 Type 1 Corten Steel Plate & Sheet – ASTM A242 Type 1 is known for its excellent weathering resistance and durability in harsh environments.

ASTM A242 Type 2 Corten Steel Plate& Sheet – ASTM A242 Type 2 provides enhanced strength and toughness, ideal for a variety of structural applications.

ASTM A242 Steel Grade Overview

The steel specification ASTM A242 encompasses two principal grades, namely Type 1 and Type 2, each suited to fulfill distinct performance requisites in the realm of structural engineering. Type 1 predominates in usage given its excellent workability, high strength, and superior weldability if not for its weathering resistance alone. Type 1 obviates the need for coatings or other protection in most applications. Type 2 might be selected for certain structural applications because of its thick section capabilities or for some specialized use because of its improved edge performance. In both cases, with Type 1 and Type 2, mechanical durability combined with corrosion resistance makes A242 steel an ideal candidate for appearance critical structures in (often industrial) urban environments and for structures likely to be heavily polluted, urban or rural.

A242 Steel Properties

ASTM A242 is a high strength, low alloy structural steel that is ideal for outdoor usage. It can form a self protective oxide layer that keeps the steel in good condition maintaining its natural corrosion resistance even in extreme climate and weather fluctuations. This is a main reason why A242 steel is used to make the Torre Agbar in Barcelona, Spain; the Cooper Union’s Academic Building and Penrose Hall in New York; and the Allen Institute for Brain Science in Seattle. In terms of tensile strength, A242 steel Properties has a yield point that is higher than that of many ordinary structural steels. Some authorities rate A242 as having a yield point of 50 ksi (345 MPa), while others put it in the range of 65 to 70 ksi (448 to 483 MPa). Regardless, it is much stronger than the more common yield point of around 45 ksi (310 MPa) for structural steel.

Corten Steel ASTM A242 Pipe & Tube Specification

Standards ASTM A 242 / ASME SA 242
Shape round, square,rectangular, Hydraulic, Honed Tubes
Size Range ½” OD to 16” OD
Length Single Random, Double Random & Cut Length
Type Weathering Steel
End Plain End, Beveled End

ASTM A242 Chemical Composition

Grade C Mn P S Cu
ASTM A242 0.15 max 1.00 max 0.15 max 0.05 max 0.20 min

Mechanical Properties of ASTM A242 Steel

Grade Yield Strength
Min Mpa
Tensile Strength
Min Mpa
Elongation
% (min)
ASTM A242
480 345 16

A242 Corten Steel Pipe Equivalent

GRADE AMERICAN ASTM BRITISH STANDARD GERMAN DIN JAPANESEJIS
ASTM A242 ASTM A423
GR.1
ASTM A214
BS-6323-5
BS-6323-6
DIN 17177
EN 10217-1 AND 2
EN 10305-2 AND 3
JIS G 3445

ASTM A242 Corten Steel Pipe Dimension Range

Grade Product types Width
(in)
Thickness
(in)
Length
(in)
A242 Mill Plate 72 to 120 0.250 to 0.750 120 to 1020
A242 Temper Leveled Plate 48 to 96 0.100 to 0.625 72 to 720
Coil for Conversion To 60 to 96 0.188 to 0.500

Corten Steel ASTM A242 Pipe Heat Treatment

Temperature °C Heat Treatment
550 – 600 [target 580] Stress Relieving
860 – 940 [target 910] Normalising

Applications of ASTM A242 Pipes & Tubes

Due to their great strength, superb corrosion resistance, and low maintenance requirements, pipes and tubes made from ASTM A242 steel have found a broad range of industrial and architectural uses. The most prevalent application of A242 steel is in the construction of bridges and other kinds of elevated structures, where the half dozen pipes that make up the A242 bridge span in the photo should be more than enough to support a pedestrian. A242 pipes are also found in building facades, overpasses, and landscape architecture, where the long term appeal of A242’s mild and rustic finish is just as important as its structural performance.

Advantages of ASTM A242 Steel

ASTM A242 steel offers a multitude of benefits that make it a premier selection for engineers, architects, and manufacturers. The material’s since high strength and long life durability make it a natural for this use. It requires nearly zero environmental impact. Nearly all of it can be reclaimed and reused at the end of life, and the vast majority of it is reused as high quality structural products, such as beams and columns in bridge building, for example.

Why Choose Corten Steel Tubes ASTM A242?

Corten Steel Tubes ASTM A242 are the perfect choice for applications requiring both strength and long-term resistance to atmospheric corrosion. These tubes form a self-protecting rust-like layer when exposed to the environment, reducing the need for painting or frequent maintenance. Their high tensile strength, durability, and weldability make them ideal for outdoor structures, bridges, and architectural elements. Choosing ASTM A242 Corten steel tubes ensures a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution that stands up to harsh weather while delivering lasting performance and aesthetic appeal.

Furthermore, we specialize in manufacturing Corten Steel SAILCOR Pipes, which are designed to meet specific industry standards and performance needs. This comprehensive range of pipes underscores our commitment to providing high-quality solutions tailored to diverse applications across various sectors.

Where to Buy ASTM A242 Steel Pipes & Tubes?

When procuring ASTM A242 steel pipes and tubes, it is essential to associate with a trustworthy supplier or manufacturer who respects industry standards and assurance of quality. Opt for companies that furnish complete certifications of the materials, such as reports of tests, analyses of the chemicals, and verifications of the mechanical properties. Also, favor suppliers who not only offer competitive pricing but the customization of the materials, and engage in the tracibility of the materials throughout the supply chain. Experience, certification, and proven technical capabilities are the hallmarks of any order either fulfilled in the short term or. This is compliance. Under this umbrella, anything goes.

FAQs for ASTM A242 Corten Steel Pipes & Tubes

ASTM A242 is a high-strength, low-alloy structural steel with improved atmospheric corrosion resistance. It’s often used in structural applications where weight savings and corrosion resistance are important, like bridges, buildings, and industrial equipment.

ASTM A242 comes in two types: Type 1 and Type 2.  The key difference lies in their application, which is largely dictated by the steel’s thickness. Type 1 is frequently used in housing structures, general construction, and freight cars. Type 2, also known as Corten B, finds its primary applications in urban furnishings, passenger ships, and cranes.

ASTM A242 and A588 are both high-strength, low-alloy steels with enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance, but they differ in several key aspects.  Chemically, A242 has lower carbon, phosphorus, and sulfur content compared to A588.  A242 is available in two types (1 and 2), while A588 comes in three grades: A, B, and K.  Specifically, ASTM A588 Grade A is equivalent to Corten A steel plate, while ASTM A242 is equivalent to Corten B.  This difference in grades and chemical composition influences their applications and suitability for various projects.

Get in Touch with Our Expert Team

At Corten Steel Tube, we are your trusted supplier of high-quality Corten steel products. With a focus on durability, sustainability, and expert support, we ensure that you get the materials you need, when you need them. Our experienced team is ready to assist you with product selection, customization, and any questions you may have.

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