Difference between DNV D420 and DNV D500 steel plate

Mar 05, 2026 Leave a message

DNV D420 is a high-strength structural steel plate certified by DNV (Det Norske Veritas) for marine and offshore applications . The "D" designation signifies that the material's impact toughness is tested and guaranteed at a moderate low temperature of -20°C . The number "420" indicates a minimum yield strength of 420 MPa. It has a tensile strength ranging from 530 to 680 MPa and minimum elongation of 18% for thicknesses up to 150mm . Impact energy requirements are typically 28J (transverse) or 42J (longitudinal) at -20°C . The chemical composition features carbon ≤0.20% and manganese ≤1.70%. This grade offers excellent weldability and formability, making it a cost-effective choice for general shipbuilding and marine structures.

 

DNV D500 is an extra-high-strength structural steel plate also certified by DNV with impact toughness tested at -20°C . The "500" denotes a minimum yield strength of 500 MPa . It has a tensile strength ranging from 610 to 770 MPa and minimum elongation of 16% for thicknesses up to 150mm . Impact energy requirements are higher, at 33J (transverse) or 50J (longitudinal) at -20°C . The chemical composition is strictly controlled with carbon ≤0.20% and manganese ≤1.70% . This grade requires advanced processing like quenching and tempering (QT) or TMCP to achieve its mechanical properties . It is suitable for demanding structural components in shipbuilding and mobile offshore drilling units where superior strength is required.

 

Both DNV D420 and DNV D500 are DNV-certified high-strength marine steels with impact toughness tested at -20°C, ensuring reliable performance in cold marine environments . Their primary difference lies in strength level: D420 offers a minimum yield strength of 420 MPa with tensile strength of 530-680 MPa, suitable for general high-strength hull construction where excellent fabricability is prioritized , while D500 provides a higher minimum yield strength of 500 MPa with tensile strength reaching 610-770 MPa, designed for more demanding load-bearing applications requiring superior strength-to-weight ratio. Both grades feature controlled chemical composition with carbon ≤0.20% and manganese ≤1.70% , and D500 requires more advanced processing like QT or TMCP to achieve its enhanced mechanical properties while maintaining good weldability for critical marine service.

 

Chemical Composition

 

DNV D420 extra high Strength Chemical Composition

Grade

The Element Max (%)

C

Si

Mn

P

S

Al

N

DNV D420

0.20

0.10-0.55

1.7

0.030

0.030

0.015-0.08

0.020

Nb

V

Ti

Cu

B

Ni

Mo

0.02-0.05

0.04-0.10

0.02

 

0.005

 

 

 

DNV D500 extra high Strength Chemical Composition

Grade

The Element Max (%)

C

Si

Mn

P

S

Al

N

DNV D500

0.20

0.10-0.55

1.7

0.030

0.030

0.015-0.08

0.020

Nb

V

Ti

Cu

B

Ni

Mo

0.02-0.05

0.04-0.10

0.02

 

0.005

 

 

 

Mechanical Property

 

DNV D420 extra high general strength property

Grade

 

Mechanical Property

Charpy V Impact Test

Thickness

Yield

Tensile

Elongation

Degree

Energy 1

Energy 2

DNV D420

mm

Min Mpa

Mpa

Min %

-20

J

J

t≤50

420

530-680

18%

28

42

50<t≤70

420

530-680

18%

28

42

70<t≤150

420

530-680

18%

28

42

Note: Energy 1 is transverse impact test, Energy 2 is longitudinal

 

DNV D500 extra high general strength property

Grade

 

Mechanical Property

Charpy V Impact Test

Thickness

Yield

Tensile

Elongation

Degree

Energy 1

Energy 2

DNV D500

mm

Min Mpa

Mpa

Min %

-20

J

J

t≤50

500

610-770

16%

33

50

50<t≤70

500

610-770

16%

33

50

70<t≤150

500

610-770

16%

33

50

Note: Energy 1 is transverse impact test, Energy 2 is longitudinal