S420nl vs s460nl

S420NL vs S460NL: EN 10025-3 High-Strength Steel Comparison

As a leading exporter and manufacturer of high-quality structural steel plates, Gangsteel specializes in producing EN 10025-3 compliant materials, including the high-strength S420NL and S460NL steel grades.

Both S420NL and S460NL are normalized fine-grain structural steels from EN 10025-3, designed for welded constructions with excellent low-temperature toughness. S420NL has a minimum yield strength of 420 MPa, while S460NL offers higher strength at 460 MPa, making S460NL suitable for more demanding loads where material thickness can be reduced for weight savings. Both grades provide impact resistance at -50°C, ideal for bridges, offshore platforms, cranes, and heavy machinery in cold climates.

Our S420NL and S460NL plates are delivered in normalized (+N) condition, ensuring superior weldability and performance. For a comprehensive overview of our en 10025 3 normalized steel plate offerings, explore our full range.

Overview of S420NL and S460NL

S420NL (material no. 1.8912) and S460NL (1.8912) are HSLA fine-grain steels under EN 10025-3, with "NL" indicating normalized delivery and -50°C impact testing. The key difference is strength: S460NL's higher yield (460 MPa vs 420 MPa) allows thinner sections for the same load, reducing weight and cost in structures like wind towers or arctic infrastructure. Both share similar chemistry and toughness, but S460NL requires stricter alloy control for its strength.

Gangsteel produces both grades in thicknesses up to 250 mm, with dual certifications available.

Chemical Composition Comparison

Both grades have low-carbon profiles for weldability, but S460NL allows slightly higher alloying for strength (ladle analysis, max % unless noted, ≤100 mm thickness).

*Note: Identical compositions ensure similar weldability (CEV ≤0.48); no preheat ≤50 mm.

Mechanical Properties Comparison

Both grades are normalized for fine-grain structure, with properties adjusted for thickness. All values are minimums for +N condition.

*Notes: Elongation per Lo = 5.65 √So. Transverse impact 16 J min at -50°C for both. S460NL's higher strength allows thinner sections.

Heat Treatment Guide for S420NL and S460NL Steel

Both grades are supplied in normalized (+N) condition, refining grain for toughness.

Normalization Process

• Heating Temperature: Austenitize at 880–920°C (uniform).
• Soaking Time: 1 hour per 25 mm thickness, min 30 minutes.
• Cooling: Air cool controlled rate.
• Purpose: Enhances ductility, meets mechanical specs.

Re-normalize post-forming if needed. Avoid quenching.

Welding Guidelines

• Preheating: Not required ≤50 mm; 100–150°C for thicker (CEV ≤0.48).
• Interpass Temp: Max 200°C.
• PWHT: Optional 550–650°C stress-relief.
• Hot Forming: >850°C; re-normalize if <720°C.

Follow EN 1011-2. Gangsteel optimizes for minimal heat treatment.

Applications of S420NL and S460NL Steel

Both for heavy engineering, infrastructure, construction in cold climates. S460NL preferred for weight reduction in high-load structures like wind towers.

Equivalent Grades

Why Choose Gangsteel?

With state-of-the-art mills and ISO-certified quality, Gangsteel delivers S420NL and S460NL 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 s420nl normalized structural steel plate product page or contact our sales team today.

Summary

S420NL and S460NL are EN 10025-3 normalized fine-grain steels with identical -50°C toughness (27 J) but differ in strength: S460NL offers 460 MPa yield (vs 420 MPa), allowing thinner sections for weight savings in high-load applications. Both excel in cold welded structures like bridges and offshore platforms. S420NL and S460NL from Gangsteel ensure reliability with certified plates for optimal performance.

FAQ

What is the primary difference between S420NL and S460NL?

S460NL has higher minimum yield strength (460 MPa vs 420 MPa for ≤16 mm) and tensile strength (550–720 MPa vs 520–680 MPa), making it stronger for heavier loads, while both maintain 27 J at -50°C.

Are the chemical compositions of S420NL and S460NL identical?

Nearly — S460NL allows similar max C (0.20%), but both have CEV ≤0.48 for excellent weldability without preheating up to 50 mm.

Do S420NL and S460NL have the same mechanical properties besides strength?

Yes, for thicknesses above 16 mm, elongation (18–19%) and -50°C impact (27 J longitudinal) are identical, but S460NL's higher strength reduces material thickness.

When should I choose S460NL over S420NL?

Opt for S460NL in high-load applications like wind towers or heavy bridges where 460 MPa yield allows thinner plates, saving weight and cost.

Are welding requirements different for S420NL and S460NL?

Both have low CEV (≤0.48), so no preheat for thin sections; 100–150°C for thicker, per EN 1011-2.