ASTM A36 Steel Plate is one of the most common grades of steel used in structural applications. This mild carbon steel grade contains chemical alloys that give it properties such as machinability, ductility, and strength that are ideal for use in constructing a variety of structures.
The machinability, strength and durability of A36 make it ideal for applications that require materials that are relatively light, but strong and durable enough to withstand high stress. These properties are crucial in materials used to construct infrastructure like buildings and bridges, where structural damage and failure could have devastating impacts.
Due to the popularity of A36 steel plate, steel plate suppliers like Leeco keep a healthy inventory of a wide variety of plate sizes, making it easy to source. A36 is also one of the most economically priced grades of steel plate.
A36 steel is produced to meet standards set by ASTM, whose material standards are widely accepted in projects across the globe. However, some countries may require that structural projects which meets standards set by a different regulatory body. For example, structural projects that require plate falling under EN standards may use S275 in place of A36, as it is generally considered equivalent.
While not exactly equivalent to A36, other structural grades of mild and HSLA steel may also be suitable for use in infrastructure projects, as these grades often have properties similar to A36
A36 steel plate is typically used in structural applications due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and formability, as these properties make it easy to shape A36 into to a variety of structural pieces that can withstand great forces. Some of the common infrastructure applications for A36 include bridge and building construction.