Difference between S355N and S355J2+N steel plate

Dec 18, 2025 Leave a message

S355N, under EN 10025-3, is a normalized, low-alloy steel with 355 MPa yield strength and -20°C toughness, ideal for demanding structures in moderate climates. S355J2+N, under EN 10025-2, is a non-alloy, normalized steel with similar strength and toughness, suited for general construction with cost-effective processing.

As part of the en 10025 3 normalized steel plate and EN 10025-2 families, these grades serve distinct purposes.

 

S355N (EN 10025-3, 1.0545): A normalized or normalized rolled fine-grain steel with 355 MPa yield strength and -20°C toughness, designed for high-load applications like bridges and cranes in moderate climates.

S355J2+N (EN 10025-2): A non-alloy, normalized steel with 355 MPa yield strength and -20°C toughness, widely used for general construction due to its cost-effectiveness and versatility.

S355N offers enhanced toughness due to its fine-grain, low-alloy structure, while S355J2+N is simpler and more economical for less demanding projects.

 

Chemical Composition Comparison

 

Element

S355N (EN 10025-3, Ladle, max %)

S355J2+N (EN 10025-2, max %)

Role in Properties

Carbon (C)

0.20

0.20

Similar, ensures weldability and toughness.

Silicon (Si)

0.50

0.55

S355J2+N's slightly higher Si aids deoxidation.

Manganese (Mn)

0.90-1.65

1.60

S355N's range supports fine-grain structure.

Phosphorus (P)

0.030

0.025

S355J2+N's lower P enhances toughness.

Sulfur (S)

0.025

0.025

Identical, ensures weld quality.

Nitrogen (N)

0.025

0.012

S355J2+N's lower N reduces brittleness.

Aluminum (Al)

0.020 (min, total)

-

S355N's Al refines grains for toughness.

Niobium (Nb)

0.05

-

S355N's Nb enhances fine-grain structure.

Vanadium (V)

0.10

-

S355N's V boosts strength.

Chromium (Cr)

0.30

0.30

Similar, improves corrosion resistance.

Nickel (Ni)

0.50

0.30

S355N's higher Ni improves toughness.

Molybdenum (Mo)

0.10

-

S355N's Mo enhances strength.

Copper (Cu)

0.55

0.55

Similar, aids corrosion resistance.

Carbon Equivalent (CEV):

S355N: ≤0.43% (≤63 mm).

S355J2+N: ≤0.45% (≤40 mm).

S355N's microalloying (Nb, V, Al) and higher nickel content enhance its fine-grain structure and toughness, while S355J2+N's simpler composition and lower phosphorus/nitrogen make it more cost-effective, similar to en 10025 3 s420n normalized structural steel plate.

Mechanical Properties Comparison

 

Property

S355N (EN 10025-3, ≤16 mm)

S355J2+N (EN 10025-2, ≤16 mm)

Yield Strength (min, MPa)

355

355

Tensile Strength (MPa)

470-630

470-630

Elongation (min, %)

22

22

Impact Toughness (min, J)

27 @ -20°C

27 @ -20°C

Hardness (Brinell)

150-190 (typical)

140-180 (typical)

Yield Strength: Both offer 355 MPa, ideal for moderate-load structures.

Tensile Strength: Identical range (470-630 MPa) ensures comparable durability.

Elongation: Both provide ≥22%, supporting complex designs.

Impact Toughness: Both offer ≥27 J at -20°C, suitable for moderate climates.

Hardness: S355N's slightly higher hardness (150-190 HB vs 140-180 HB) reflects its fine-grain structure.

Thickness: S355N up to 200 mm, S355J2+N up to 400 mm, offering greater thickness versatility for S355J2+N, similar to en 10025 3 s355n normalized structural steel plate.

 

Applications

S355N: Used in high-load structures like bridges, cranes, and heavy machinery in moderate climates, leveraging its fine-grain structure and enhanced toughness.

S355J2+N: Applied in general construction, buildings, and infrastructure, where cost-effectiveness and standard toughness are sufficient.

S355N is preferred for critical applications requiring superior toughness, while S355J2+N suits cost-sensitive projects. For colder climates, consider en 10025 3 s355nl normalized structural steel plate.

 

Key Differences Summarized

Feature

S355N (EN 10025-3)

S355J2+N (EN 10025-2)

Type

Low-alloy, normalized

Non-alloy, normalized

Composition

Microalloyed (Nb, V, Al)

Simpler, no microalloying

CEV

≤0.43%

≤0.45%

Toughness

Enhanced by fine-grain structure

Standard toughness

Applications

High-load structures (bridges, cranes)

General construction, buildings

Cost

Higher (due to microalloying)

Lower (simpler composition)