Difference between Q355NH and Q235NH steel plate

Jan 04, 2026 Leave a message

Q355NH and Q235NH are Chinese-standard, hot-rolled, weather-resistant (Corten-type) steel plates. Making Q355NH stronger, while both offer enhanced corrosion resistance for outdoor structures like bridges and containers, reducing need for paint but with Q355NH having better strength-to-weight for thicker applications.

 

Chemical composition

 

Grade

Q235NH chemical composition(%)

C Max

Si

Mn

P

S Max

China GB/T 4171 Q235NH

0.13

0.1-0.4

0.20-0.60

0.030

0.030

 

Grade

Q355NH chemical composition(%)

C Max

Si Max

Mn

P

S Max

China GB/T 4171 Q355NH

0.16

0.5

0.5-1.5

0.030

0.030

 

Mechanical property

 

Grade

Q235NH steel mechanical property

Yield Strength(MPa)

Tensile Strength(MPa)

% Elongation min

China GB/T 4171 Q235NH

215-235

360-510

23

 

Grade

Q355NH mechanical property

 

Yield Strength(MPa)

Tensile Strength(MPa)

% Elongation min

China GB/T 4171 Q355NH

325-355

490-630

20

 

Strength: The primary difference is strength; Q355NH offers higher strength (355 MPa minimum yield) than Q235NH (235 MPa minimum yield), allowing for thinner sections or heavier loads.
Application: Both are used for outdoor structures (bridges, containers, architectural features) needing corrosion resistance, but Q355NH's higher strength suits thicker, high-performance needs.

 

Q235NH: Lower strength but good plasticity, cost-effective weathering steel.

Q355NH: Higher strength, excellent weldability, better low-temperature impact, suitable for demanding structural use.