What is S460NL Steel Grade?

What Is S460NL Steel Grade?

S460NL is a high-strength, low-alloy structural steel grade specified in the European standard EN 10025-3. It is designed for use in welded structures and heavy steel constructions that require excellent strength, good toughness at low temperatures, and reliable weldability. The “NL” designation indicates that the material is normalized or normalized rolled and possesses low-temperature impact toughness (Charpy V-notch tested at -50°C).

1. Meaning of S460NL

2. Product Standards

• Standard: EN 10025-3
• Delivery Condition: Normalized or Normalized Rolled (N or NL)
• Typical Forms: Heavy steel plates, structural beams, pressure components, bridge sections, offshore structures.

3. Chemical Composition (Typical Maximum Values %)

Exact composition may vary slightly depending on manufacturer specifications.

4. Mechanical Properties

S460NL maintains high strength while ensuring toughness and crack resistance, even in cold climates or low-temperature environments.

5. Key Features and Advantages

• ✅High yield strength (460 MPa)
• ✅Excellent toughness at low temperatures (-50°C)
• ✅Good weldability due to low carbon equivalent
• ✅Suitable for thick steel plate applications
• ✅Certified with EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2 inspection documents if required

6. Applications of S460NL Steel

S460NL is used in heavy-duty welded structures and engineering fields including:

• Bridge structures and steel towers
• Wind turbine towers
• Offshore platforms and marine structures
• High-rise buildings and cranes
• Pressure vessels and structural parts requiring high strength and toughness

7. S460NL vs. Similar Grades

S460NL provides superior low-temperature performance compared to S460N.

8. Supply Range from Gangsteel

Gangsteel can supply S460NL steel plates with:

• Thickness: 6mm – 300mm
• Width: 1500mm – 4800mm
• Length: 3000mm – 18000mm
• Heat treatment: Normalized (N)
• Certificates: EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2, DNV, ABS, LR, BV, TÜV

9. Conclusion

S460NL is a premium-grade structural steel ideal for demanding engineering projects where strength, weldability, and low-temperature toughness are required. With its high yield strength and excellent impact resistance down to -50°C, it is widely used in bridges, offshore platforms, towers, and heavy structural components.