What is the difference between S460 and S355?

S460 vs S355 Comparison

At Gangsteel, we’re here to clarify the differences between S460 vs S355, two high-strength structural steels under EN 10025, to help you choose the right material for your project. S460, typically S460N under EN 10025-3, offers a minimum yield strength of 460 MPa and -20°C toughness, while S355, commonly S355J2 under EN 10025-2, provides 355 MPa yield strength and similar -20°C toughness. S460N is suited for heavier loads, while S355J2 is more versatile for general structural applications.

As part of the en 10025 3 normalized steel plate and EN 10025-2 families, these grades serve distinct purposes. Gangsteel compares their chemical composition, mechanical properties, and applications, with ties to grades like en 10025 3 s420n normalized structural steel plate and en 10025 3 s355n normalized structural steel plate. For more details, visit our en 10025 3 s460n normalized structural steel plate or en 10025 3 s460nl normalized structural steel plate pages.

Overview of S460 and S355

• S460 (S460N, EN 10025-3, 1.8901): A normalized or normalized rolled fine-grain structural steel with a minimum yield strength of 460 MPa and impact toughness tested at -20°C. It’s designed for high-load applications like bridges and cranes in moderate climates.
• S355 (S355J2, EN 10025-2): A non-alloy structural steel with a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa and impact toughness tested at -20°C. It’s widely used for general construction, buildings, and infrastructure due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness.

S460N offers higher strength for more demanding projects, while S355J2 is suitable for a broader range of structural needs with moderate strength requirements.

Chemical Composition Comparison

The chemical composition of S460N vs S355J2 influences their properties:

Carbon Equivalent (CEV):

• S460N: ≤0.48% (≤63 mm).
• S355J2: ≤0.45% (≤40 mm).

S460N’s microalloying elements (Nb, V, Al) and higher nickel content enhance its strength and toughness, justifying its use in high-load applications, while S355J2’s simpler composition and lower CEV make it more cost-effective and weldable, similar to en 10025 3 s420n normalized structural steel plate.

Mechanical Properties Comparison

S460N vs S355J2 mechanical properties highlight their differences:

• Yield Strength: S460N’s 460 MPa significantly exceeds S355J2’s 355 MPa, making it ideal for heavier loads.
• Tensile Strength: S460N (540-720 MPa) is stronger than S355J2 (470-630 MPa), supporting more robust structures.
• Elongation: S355J2’s ≥22% elongation is higher than S460N’s ≥17%, indicating better ductility for forming.
• Impact Toughness: Both offer ≥27 J at -20°C, suitable for moderate climates.
• Hardness: S460N’s higher hardness (170-210 HB vs 150-190 HB) reflects its increased strength, similar to en 10025 3 s355n normalized structural steel plate.
• Thickness: S460N up to 200 mm, S355J2 up to 400 mm, with S355J2 offering greater thickness versatility.

Processing and Fabrication

• S460N: Normalized for fine-grain microstructure, suited for high-strength welding and machining. Preheating (100-150°C) for >20 mm; PWHT optional (550-650°C). CEV ≤0.48%.
• S355J2: Hot-rolled, non-alloy steel with simpler processing; excellent weldability due to lower CEV (≤0.45%). Preheating typically not required for thinner plates.

Consumables: Both use ER70S-6 (GMAW) and EM12K flux with EH14 wire (SAW). S355J2’s lower CEV and simpler composition make it easier to weld, similar to en 10025 3 s275n normalized structural steel plate.

Applications

• S460N: Used in high-load structures like bridges, cranes, and heavy machinery in moderate climates, where its 460 MPa yield strength supports heavier designs.
• S355J2: Applied in general construction, buildings, bridges, and infrastructure, where 355 MPa yield strength is sufficient for moderate loads and cost-effectiveness is key.

S460N is chosen for projects requiring higher strength, while S355J2 is preferred for versatility and lower costs. For colder climates, consider en 10025 3 s460nl normalized structural steel plate with -50°C toughness.

Key Differences Summarized

Why Choose Gangsteel?

Gangsteel supplies S460N, S355J2, and related grades:

• Inventory: Extensive stock in China.
• Sizes: Thickness 6–200 mm (S460N), up to 400 mm (S355J2), widths 2000/2500/3000 mm, lengths up to 12,000 mm.
• Delivery: 7-30 days globally.
• Certifications: EN 10204 3.1/3.2, UT testing (EN 10160), ABS/LR/BV/DNV approvals.
• Processing: Cutting, welding, bending.

Contact us for en 10025 3 s460n normalized structural steel plate.

FAQ

What is the main difference between S460 and S355?
S460 (e.g., S460N) has a higher yield strength (460 MPa vs 355 MPa) than S355 (e.g., S355J2), making it better for high-load structures, while S355J2 is more versatile for general construction.

How do S460 and S355 strengths compare?
S460N’s 460 MPa yield strength exceeds S355J2’s 355 MPa, allowing S460N to support heavier loads in bridges and cranes.

Which is better for welding, S460 or S355?
S355J2’s lower CEV (≤0.45%) makes it easier to weld than S460N (CEV ≤0.48%), especially for thinner plates without preheating.

What applications suit S460 vs S355?
S460N is ideal for high-load structures like bridges and cranes in moderate climates; S355J2 suits general construction and buildings with moderate strength needs.

How do S460 and S355 costs compare?
S460N is 20-30% more expensive than S355J2 due to its higher strength and normalized fine-grain processing.

What certifications support S460 and S355?
Gangsteel provides S460N and S355J2 with EN 10204 3.1/3.2, UT testing (EN 10160), and ABS/LR/BV/DNV approvals.