Difference between DNV E36 and DNV E32

Dec 19, 2025 Leave a message

DNV E36 is a stronger, high-yield steel than DNV E32, used for more demanding marine structures, offering higher strength (around 360 MPa yield) and impact toughness at lower temperatures, while E32 is a common strength steel (around 315 MPa yield) for general shipbuilding, with E36 typically requiring better low-temp performance (e.g., -20°C vs. -30°C or lower for E32). The "36" and "32" refer to minimum yield strength (in MPa), and the "E" denotes suitability for extreme low temperatures, with E36 having superior cryogenic properties for harsher offshore/Arctic use.

 

Chemical Composition

 

NV E32 high Strength Chemical Composition

Grade

The Element Max (%)

C

Si

Mn

P

S

Al

N

NV E32

0.18

0.10-0.50

0.9-1.6

0.035

0.035

0.015-0.08

-

Nb

V

Ti

Cu

Cr

Ni

Mo

0.02-0.05

0.05-0.10

0.02

0.35

0.20

0.40

0.08

 

 

NV E36 high Strength Chemical Composition

Grade

The Element Max (%)

C

Si

Mn

P

S

Al

N

NV E36

0.18

0.10-0.50

0.9-1.6

0.035

0.035

0.015-0.08

-

Nb

V

Ti

Cu

Cr

Ni

Mo

0.02-0.05

0.05-0.10

0.02

0.35

0.20

0.40

0.08

 

Mechanical Property

 

NV E32 high general strength property

Grade

 

Mechanical Property

Charpy V Impact Test

Thickness

Yield

Tensile

Elongation

Degree

Energy 1

Energy 2

NV E32

mm

Min Mpa

Mpa

Min %

-40

J

J

t≤50

315

440-590

22%

22

31

50<t≤70

315

440-590

22%

26

38

70<t≤150

315

440-590

22%

31

46

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

 

 

NV E36 high general strength property

Grade

 

Mechanical Property

Charpy V Impact Test

Thickness

Yield

Tensile

Elongation

Degree

Energy 1

Energy 2

NV E36

mm

Min Mpa

Mpa

Min %

-40

J

J

t≤50

355

490-620

21%

24

34

50<t≤70

355

490-620

21%

27

41

70<t≤150

355

490-620

21%

34

50

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

 

Application:
E32: General shipbuilding, bulkheads, decks.
E36: Higher strength demands in shipbuilding, offshore platforms, mobile units, harsh environments.
Toughness (Charpy Impact):
E36: Better low-temperature impact toughness (often tested at -20°C or lower) for colder conditions, according to DNV rules.
E32: Standard low-temperature toughness (e.g., -30°C).
Classification: Both are part of the DNV family (now merged with GL, often VL/DNV-GL), with the letter prefix (A, D, E, F) indicating suitability for different applications, but the number is the key strength difference.
In Simple Terms: Think of E36 as the tougher, stronger big brother to E32, built to withstand colder, more demanding offshore or Arctic conditions in ships and structures.