Steel Plate Grade

Is A514 stainless steel?

 

Is A514 Stainless Steel?

 

No, ASTM A514 is not stainless steel. It is a high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel, specifically a quenched and tempered carbon-alloy steel designed for structural applications requiring superior strength and toughness, but without the high corrosion resistance characteristic of stainless steels. Stainless steels, like AISI 304 or S17400, contain at least 10.5% chromium for corrosion resistance, whereas A514 is alloyed primarily for mechanical properties with lower chromium levels (e.g., 0.40-0.65% in some grades). As a leading manufacturer and exporter, Gangsteel specializes in ASTM A514/A514M steel plate, providing high-quality alloy plates for applications where strength, not corrosion resistance, is paramount.

 

Key Differences Between A514 and Stainless Steel

A514 is an alloy steel focused on high yield strength, while stainless steel prioritizes corrosion resistance. Below is a comparison table highlighting these differences:

Aspect

ASTM A514 (Alloy Steel)

Typical Stainless Steel (e.g., AISI 304)

Primary Purpose

High strength and toughness for structural use

Corrosion resistance in harsh environments

Chromium Content

0.40-2.00% (varies by grade)

18-20%

Yield Strength (min, ksi)

90-100

30-40

Heat Treatment

Quenched and tempered

Annealed or cold-worked

Corrosion Resistance

Moderate (not primary feature)

Excellent (forms passive oxide layer)

Typical Applications

Bridges, cranes, mining equipment

Food processing, chemical tanks, architecture

Weldability

Good with preheat

Excellent, but may require specific fillers

Gangsteel's ASTM A514/A514M steel plate offers grades like astm a514 grade f for enhanced abrasion resistance, distinct from stainless properties.

 

Chemical Composition of A514 (Example: Grade B)

To illustrate why A514 isn't stainless, here's the typical composition for Grade B (in weight %):

Element

Content (%)

C

0.12-0.21

Mn

0.70-1.00

P (max)

0.035

S (max)

0.035

Si

0.20-0.35

Cr

0.40-0.65

Mo

0.15-0.25

V

0.03-0.08

Ti

0.01-0.03

B

0.0005-0.005

Low chromium compared to stainless steels confirms it's not corrosion-focused.

 

Applications and Alternatives

A514 is used in high-stress environments like heavy equipment, not typically where stainless is needed (e.g., marine or chemical). For corrosion needs, consider stainless alternatives. Gangsteel's A514 plates, like astm a514 grade q, excel in strength-focused uses.

 

FAQ

  • Why isn't A514 considered stainless steel?It lacks sufficient chromium (min 10.5%) for the passive oxide layer that defines stainless steels.
  • What is A514 used for?Structural components in bridges, cranes, and mining equipment where high strength is key.
  • Can A514 be used in corrosive environments?Limited; it's not designed for high corrosion but can be coated for protection.
  • What are equivalents to A514?Materials like T-1 or EN S690Q, but not stainless equivalents.
  • Where can I buy A514 steel plates?Gangsteel offers high-quality plates; contact us for ASTM A514/A514M steel plate.

 

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