Difference between ABS FH32 and ABS FH36 steel plate

ABS FH32 is a high-strength marine steel plate certified by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for shipbuilding and offshore applications. The "F" grade signifies it is impact tested at the extremely low temperature of -60°C, ensuring exceptional toughness for vessels operating in polar and Arctic environments . It has a minimum yield strength of 315 MPa (46 ksi) and tensile strength ranging from 440 to 590 MPa (64-85 ksi), with a minimum elongation of 22% . The chemical composition features carbon ≤0.16% and manganese 0.90-1.60%, with microalloying elements such as Nb and V for grain refinement . This grade is widely used for hull structures, offshore platforms, and ice-class vessels requiring superior low-temperature performance.

ABS FH36 is a higher-strength marine steel plate also certified by ABS, with impact toughness tested at -60°C . The "36" denotes a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa (51 ksi) and tensile strength ranging from 490 to 620 MPa (71-90 ksi), with a minimum elongation of 21% . Its chemical composition is similar to FH32 with carbon ≤0.16% and manganese 0.90-1.60%, featuring microalloying elements for enhanced properties . This grade is designed for demanding structural components in large vessels, offshore drilling units, and Arctic-class ships requiring maximum strength-to-weight ratio.

Both ABS FH32 and ABS FH36 are ABS-certified high-strength marine steels with exceptional low-temperature toughness tested at -60°C, ensuring reliable performance in the most extreme Arctic and harsh marine environments . Their primary difference lies in strength level: FH32 offers a minimum yield strength of 315 MPa with tensile strength of 440-590 MPa, suitable for general high-strength hull construction and secondary structures, while FH36 provides a higher minimum yield strength of 355 MPa with tensile strength reaching 490-620 MPa, designed for more demanding load-bearing applications requiring superior strength . Both grades feature strictly controlled chemical composition (carbon ≤0.16%, manganese 0.90-1.60%) and maintain good weldability for critical marine service, making them ideal for icebreakers, offshore platforms, and vessels operating in polar regions.

Chemical Composition

Mechanical Property