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What is the Difference Between ASTM A36 vs ASTM A572 Gr 50?

 

ASTM A36 and ASTM A572 Grade 50 are two widely used carbon steels in construction, each with distinct characteristics that suit different applications. While A36 is a versatile, cost-effective mild steel for general structural purposes, astm a572 gr 50 is a high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel designed for higher load-bearing capacity.

As a leading astm a572 steel supplier in China, Gangsteel provides both grades in plates, bars, and shapes, ensuring compliance with ASTM standards.

Gangsteel compares a572 gr 50 steel and A36, covering chemical composition, mechanical properties, applications, and more to guide your material selection for bridges, buildings, or machinery.

 

1. Overview of ASTM A36 and ASTM A572 Gr 50

ASTM A36 is a standard carbon steel known for its affordability and ease of fabrication, making it ideal for general construction like buildings and platforms. In contrast, astm a572 gr50 is an HSLA steel with alloying elements like columbium and vanadium, offering higher strength for demanding structural applications such as bridges and high-rises. The astm a572 specification includes grades like astm a572 gr 55, astm a572 gr 60, and astm a572 gr 65, but Grade 50 is the most common for its balance of strength and workability.

Gangsteel supplies both for global projects, ensuring top quality and compliance.

 

2. Chemical Composition Comparison ASTM A36 VS ASTM A572 GR 50

The astm a572 gr 50 chemical composition differs from A36 by including alloys that enhance strength and corrosion resistance:

Element

ASTM A36 (%)

ASTM A572 Gr 50 (%)

Carbon (C)

≤ 0.26

≤ 0.23

Manganese (Mn)

0.80-1.20

≤ 1.35

Phosphorus (P)

≤ 0.04

≤ 0.04

Sulfur (S)

≤ 0.05

≤ 0.05

Silicon (Si)

≤ 0.40

≤ 0.40

Vanadium (V)

-

0.01-0.15

Columbium (Nb)

-

0.005-0.05

Copper (Cu, optional)

≥ 0.20

≥ 0.20

A572 Gr 50’s lower carbon and added alloys like vanadium improve its performance in a572 gr 50 structural steel applications, while A36’s simpler composition suits general use.

 

3. Mechanical Properties Comparison

The astm a572 gr 50 mechanical properties show a significant strength advantage over A36:

Property

ASTM A36

ASTM A572 Gr 50

Yield Strength (ksi/MPa)

36/250

50/345

Tensile Strength (ksi/MPa)

58-80/400-550

65/450 min

Elongation (in 8 in./200mm)

20% min

18% min

Elongation (in 2 in./50mm)

23% min

21% min

Charpy Impact (at 0°C, optional)

Not required

≥ 27 J

The a572 gr 50 yield strength is 39% higher than A36, allowing thinner sections for weight savings. A36 offers better ductility for forming, but A572 Gr 50 excels in high-stress scenarios.

 

4. Applications and Uses

ASTM A36 is used in general construction, such as residential buildings, platforms, and simple frames, where moderate strength is sufficient. astm a572 gr 50 plate is preferred for a572 gr 50 bridge steel plate, high-rise columns, and heavy machinery like cranes due to its higher strength. It’s also used in transmission towers and railcars, where a572 50 steel properties reduce material weight. Gangsteel supplies both for diverse needs, from basic to high-performance applications.

 

5. Equivalent Materials for ASTM A572 Gr 50

The astm a572 gr 50 equivalent material includes:

Standard

Equivalent Grade

EN 10025

S355JR

DIN 17100

St52-3

JIS G3106

SM490A

GB/T 1591

Q345B

These equivalents match sa 572 gr 50 equivalent for structural use globally.

 

6. Cost and Availability

A36 is more affordable and widely available due to its simpler composition, while a572 gr 50 steel costs more but saves on material weight. Gangsteel offers competitive pricing for a572 50 steel plate and A36, with stock for fast delivery.

 

7. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between A572 Gr.50 and A529 Gr 50?

A572 Gr 50 has stricter alloy controls than a529 gr 42 50.

2. What is the yield strength of A572 Gr 50?

50 ksi, per a572 gr 50 yield strength.

3. What are the mechanical properties of A572 Gr 50?

See astm a572 gr 50 material properties.

4. What is the chemical composition of A572 Gr 50?

Low carbon with alloys, per astm a572 gr 50 chemical composition.

5. What is the equivalent of A572 Gr 50?

EN S355JR, per astm a572 gr 50 equivalent material.

6. Where can I buy A572 Gr 50 steel?

Gangsteel, an ASTM A572 Grade 50 steel supplier China.

 

8. Why Buy from GANGSTEEL?

Gangsteel offers a572 gr 50 steel plate, astm a572 gr 42, astm a572 gr 55, astm a572 gr 60, and astm a572 gr 65 with stock, fast delivery, and MTC certification.

 

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