What is the difference between S355jr and other grades of low alloy high strength steel plates?

Jul 21, 2026

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Linda Li
Linda Li
I am a Sustainability Analyst at Yuxin (Tianjin) International Trade Co., Ltd., where I focus on implementing eco-friendly practices in our operations. My work includes reducing carbon footprint and ensuring sustainable production methods.

As a supplier of S355jr Low Alloy High Strength Steel Plate, I often encounter inquiries from customers regarding the differences between S355jr and other grades of low alloy high strength steel plates. In this blog post, I will delve into the characteristics of S355jr and compare it with some other popular grades in the market, such as A516 Grade 70 Plate and A36 Steel.

Understanding S355jr Low Alloy High Strength Steel Plate

S355jr is a European standard low alloy high strength steel plate. The "S" in S355jr stands for structural steel, and the number "355" indicates the minimum yield strength of the steel, which is 355 MPa. The "jr" suffix means that the steel has a guaranteed impact energy at 20°C. This grade of steel is widely used in various structural applications, including bridges, buildings, and machinery, due to its good combination of strength, weldability, and toughness.

CCS A06Manufacturers Direct S355jr Low Alloy High Strength Steel Plate

One of the key advantages of S355jr is its high strength - to - weight ratio. This allows for the design of lighter structures without sacrificing structural integrity. Additionally, S355jr has excellent weldability, which means that it can be easily joined using common welding methods. This makes it a preferred choice for fabricators who need to assemble large - scale structures.

Comparison with A516 Grade 70 Plate

A516 Grade 70 Plate is an American standard steel plate that is commonly used in pressure vessel applications. Unlike S355jr, which is mainly for general structural use, A516 Grade 70 is designed to withstand high pressure and temperature conditions.

In terms of chemical composition, A516 Grade 70 typically contains a higher amount of carbon and manganese compared to S355jr. The carbon content in A516 Grade 70 can range from 0.20% to 0.30%, while S355jr usually has a carbon content of around 0.20% or less. The higher carbon content in A516 Grade 70 contributes to its higher strength, but it also reduces its weldability to some extent.

The yield strength of A516 Grade 70 is generally lower than that of S355jr. A516 Grade 70 has a minimum yield strength of 260 MPa, while S355jr has a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa. However, A516 Grade 70 has better notch toughness, especially at low temperatures, which makes it suitable for use in pressure vessels that may be exposed to cold environments.

Comparison with A36 Steel

A36 Steel is another commonly used American standard steel. It is a carbon steel with relatively low strength compared to S355jr.

The chemical composition of A36 Steel is different from that of S355jr. A36 Steel has a carbon content of around 0.26%, which is slightly higher than that of S355jr. It also contains less alloying elements compared to S355jr. The lower alloy content in A36 Steel results in lower strength and toughness.

The yield strength of A36 Steel is significantly lower than that of S355jr. A36 Steel has a minimum yield strength of 250 MPa, while S355jr has a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa. This means that S355jr can support heavier loads and is more suitable for applications where high strength is required.

In terms of weldability, both A36 Steel and S355jr are weldable, but S355jr may require more careful welding procedures due to its higher strength and alloy content. However, with proper welding techniques, S355jr can be welded effectively.

Physical and Mechanical Properties

The physical and mechanical properties of S355jr, A516 Grade 70, and A36 Steel play a crucial role in determining their suitability for different applications.

S355jr has a density of approximately 7.85 g/cm³, which is similar to that of A516 Grade 70 and A36 Steel. The modulus of elasticity of S355jr is around 200 GPa, which is also comparable to the other two grades.

In terms of mechanical properties, S355jr has a higher tensile strength compared to A36 Steel. The tensile strength of S355jr ranges from 470 - 630 MPa, while the tensile strength of A36 Steel is around 400 - 550 MPa. A516 Grade 70 has a tensile strength of 485 - 620 MPa, which is also in a similar range to S355jr.

The elongation of S355jr is typically around 22% - 27%, which is comparable to A516 Grade 70 and A36 Steel. This indicates that all three grades have a certain degree of ductility, which is important for forming and shaping processes.

Applications

The differences in properties between S355jr, A516 Grade 70, and A36 Steel lead to different applications.

S355jr is widely used in general structural applications, such as building frames, bridges, and industrial machinery. Its high strength and good weldability make it a cost - effective choice for these applications.

A516 Grade 70 Plate is mainly used in pressure vessel applications, such as boilers, storage tanks, and pipelines. Its ability to withstand high pressure and temperature, as well as its good notch toughness, make it suitable for these critical applications.

A36 Steel is commonly used in non - critical structural applications, such as general construction, fencing, and small - scale machinery. Its lower cost and relatively good workability make it a popular choice for these applications.

Quality Control and Certification

As a supplier of S355jr Low Alloy High Strength Steel Plate, I understand the importance of quality control and certification. Our S355jr steel plates are produced in accordance with strict European standards and undergo rigorous quality testing.

We provide certificates of conformity for each batch of steel plates, which include information on chemical composition, mechanical properties, and heat treatment. This ensures that our customers receive high - quality products that meet their specific requirements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, S355jr is a high - performance low alloy high strength steel plate that offers a good balance of strength, weldability, and toughness. Compared to A516 Grade 70 Plate and A36 Steel, S355jr has higher yield strength and is more suitable for general structural applications. A516 Grade 70 is better for pressure vessel applications due to its ability to withstand high pressure and temperature, while A36 Steel is a cost - effective choice for non - critical structural applications.

If you are in the market for S355jr Low Alloy High Strength Steel Plate or have any questions about the differences between S355jr and other grades of steel, please feel free to contact us for more information. We are committed to providing high - quality products and excellent customer service.

References

  • European Standard EN 10025 - 2 for S355jr steel.
  • American Standard ASTM A516 for A516 Grade 70 Plate.
  • American Standard ASTM A36 for A36 Steel.
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