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As a premier exporter and manufacturer of high-quality structural steel plates, Gangsteel specializes in producing EN 10025-3 compliant materials, including the versatile S420 NL steel grade.

S420 NL is a normalized fine-grain structural steel designed for welded constructions requiring enhanced toughness at low temperatures, down to -50°C.

Ideal for heavy-duty applications in bridges, cranes, and offshore structures, our S420 NL plates are delivered in normalized or normalized rolled conditions to ensure superior weldability and impact resistance.

For a comprehensive overview of our en 10025 3 normalized steel plate offerings, explore our full range.

 

What is EN 10025-3 S420 NL Steel?

EN 10025-3 S420 NL steel, designated as 1.8912 under the European standard EN 10025-3, belongs to the family of weldable fine-grain steels. The "NL" suffix indicates its suitability for normalized delivery with a minimum impact energy of 27 Joules at -50°C in the longitudinal direction, making it perfect for cold climates and demanding environments. Compared to similar grades like en 10025 3 s420n normalized structural steel plate, S420 NL offers improved low-temperature performance without compromising on strength.

Gangsteel produces S420 NL plates in thicknesses up to 250 mm, with precise control over chemical composition to meet CEV limits for optimal weldability. Our plates are rigorously tested to comply with international standards, ensuring reliability for global projects.

 

Chemical Composition of EN 10025-3 S420 NL Steel

The chemical makeup of S420 NL is carefully balanced to provide excellent strength, ductility, and resistance to brittle fracture. Below is the product analysis for nominal thicknesses ≤ 100 mm, with a maximum Carbon Equivalent Value (CEV) of 0.48 (or up to 0.50 in some specifications).

Element

Symbol

Min (%)

Max (%)

Carbon

C

-

0.20

Silicon

Si

-

0.60

Manganese

Mn

1.00

1.70

Nickel

Ni

-

0.80

Phosphorus

P

-

0.025

Sulfur

S

-

0.020

Chromium

Cr

-

0.30

Molybdenum

Mo

-

0.10

Vanadium

V

-

0.20

Nitrogen

N

-

0.025

Niobium

Nb

-

0.05

Titanium

Ti

-

0.05

Aluminum

Al

0.020

-

Copper

Cu

-

0.55

CEV

-

-

0.48

*Note: For long products, P and S may be 0.005% higher. If N-binding elements are present, the Al minimum does not apply. Cu above 0.4% may affect hot forming.

This low carbon and controlled alloying ensure minimal risk of cracking during welding.

 

Mechanical Properties of EN 10025-3 S420 NL Steel

S420 NL exhibits robust mechanical characteristics, with properties varying by thickness to accommodate diverse fabrication needs. All values are for normalized (+N) condition. The table below consolidates yield strength, tensile strength, elongation, and Charpy V-Notch impact energy (longitudinal and transverse at key temperatures, with focus on -50°C minimums).

Nominal Thickness (mm)

Yield Strength ReH Min (MPa)

Tensile Strength Rm (MPa)

Elongation A Min (%)

Charpy KV Longitudinal Min (J) at -50°C

Charpy KV Transverse Min (J) at -50°C

≤ 16

420

520–680

19

27

16

16 < t ≤ 40

400

520–680

19

27

16

40 < t ≤ 63

390

520–680

19

27

16

63 < t ≤ 80

380

520–680

18

27

16

80 < t ≤ 100

370

520–680

18

27

16

100 < t ≤ 150

360

500–650

18

27

16

150 < t ≤ 200

360

500–650

18

27

16

200 < t ≤ 250

340

500–650

18

27

16

*Notes: Elongation based on Lo = 5.65 √So. Impact values are minimums; higher at warmer temperatures. These properties position S420 NL as a cost-effective choice for structures needing high toughness, outperforming standard S420JR in sub-zero conditions.

 

Heat Treatment Guide for S420 NL Steel

S420 NL steel is primarily supplied in the normalized (+N) or normalized rolled condition as per EN 10025-3, which refines the grain structure for improved toughness and weldability.

Normalization Process

  • Heating Temperature: Austenitize at 880–920°C (uniform throughout the thickness).
  • Soaking Time: Hold for approximately 1 hour per 25 mm of thickness, minimum 30 minutes.
  • Cooling: Air cool to room temperature at a controlled rate to avoid excessive hardening.
  • Purpose: Refines ferrite-pearlite structure, enhances ductility, and ensures compliance with mechanical properties post-delivery.

If post-delivery heat treatment is needed (e.g., after hot forming), re-normalize to maintain properties. Avoid quenching unless specified, as it may alter toughness.

Welding Heat Treatment Guidelines

  • Preheating: Not required for thicknesses ≤ 50 mm; recommend 100–150°C for thicker sections to prevent cold cracking, based on CEV ≤ 0.48.
  • Interpass Temperature: Maximum 200°C to preserve fine grain.
  • Post-Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT): Optional stress-relief at 550–650°C for 1 hour per 25 mm thickness, followed by slow cooling. Not typically needed due to low hardenability.
  • Hot Forming: Perform above 850°C; re-normalize if forming temperature drops below 720°C.

Always consult EN 1011-2 for welding recommendations. Gangsteel provides plates optimized for these processes to minimize heat treatment needs.

 

Applications of S420 NL Steel

S420 NL is widely used in:

  • Heavy Engineering: Cranes, earthmoving equipment, and load-bearing frameworks.
  • Infrastructure: Bridges, viaducts, and offshore platforms where low-temperature ductility is critical.
  • Construction: Welded structures in shipbuilding and pressure vessels.

For higher strength needs, consider upgrading to en 10025 3 s460n normalized structural steel plate or en 10025 3 s460nl normalized structural steel plate.

 

Equivalent Grades to S420 NL

Standard

Grade

DIN 17102

TStE 420

ASTM

A572 Gr. 65

JIS

SM570

GB

Q420B

 

Why Choose Gangsteel for S420 NL Steel?

With state-of-the-art mills and a commitment to ISO-certified quality, Gangsteel delivers S420 NL plates tailored to your specifications. Stocked in various sizes and ready for immediate export worldwide. For detailed pricing and availability, visit our en 10025 3 S420 NL normalized structural steel plate product page or contact our sales team today.

 

Summary

Grade S420 NL from EN 10025-3 is a high-strength normalized fine-grain structural steel with 420 MPa yield, 520–680 MPa tensile, and 27 J impact at -50°C. Its controlled chemistry (CEV ≤ 0.48) and fine-grain structure make it ideal for welded structures in cold environments like bridges and offshore platforms. S420 NL from Gangsteel ensures reliability for global projects.

 

FAQ

What is the difference between S420N and S420 NL steel?

S420N provides impact testing down to -20°C (40 J longitudinal), while S420 NL extends this to -50°C (27 J longitudinal). Both are normalized fine-grain steels under EN 10025-3, but S420 NL is ideal for arctic or sub-zero conditions.

What are the maximum thicknesses available for S420 NL plates?

Gangsteel supplies S420 NL plates up to 250 mm thick, with mechanical properties adjusted for thicker sections to maintain structural integrity.

Is S420 NL suitable for welding without preheating?

Yes, due to its low CEV (max 0.48), S420 NL exhibits excellent weldability. Preheating is typically not required for thicknesses under 50 mm, but consult project specifications for optimal procedures.

What certifications does Gangsteel provide with S420 NL plates?

All plates come with EN 10204 3.1 mill certificates, including chemical analysis, mechanical test results, and impact testing. We also offer third-party inspections like Lloyd's Register or DNV upon request.

Can S420 NL be used in offshore structures?

Absolutely—its high toughness at -50°C and corrosion resistance (with proper coatings) make it a preferred material for offshore platforms, as per EN 10025-3 standards

 

 

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