Difference between S460N and S355J2 steel plate

Dec 17, 2025 Leave a message

S460N, typically S460N under EN 10025-3, offers a minimum yield strength of 460 MPa and -20°C toughness, while S355J2, commonly S355J2 under EN 10025-2, provides 355 MPa yield strength and similar -20°C toughness. S460N is suited for heavier loads, while S355J2 is more versatile for general structural applications.

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

 

S460N: A normalized or normalized rolled fine-grain structural steel with a minimum yield strength of 460 MPa and impact toughness tested at -20°C. It's designed for high-load applications like bridges and cranes in moderate climates.
S355J2: A non-alloy structural steel with a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa and impact toughness tested at -20°C. It's widely used for general construction, buildings, and infrastructure due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness.
S460N offers higher strength for more demanding projects, while S355J2 is suitable for a broader range of structural needs with moderate strength requirements.

 

Chemical Composition Comparison

 

Element

S460N (EN 10025-3, Ladle, max %)

S355J2 (EN 10025-2, max %)

Role in Properties

Carbon (C)

0.20

0.20

Similar, ensures weldability and toughness.

Silicon (Si)

0.60

0.55

S460N's higher Si aids deoxidation.

Manganese (Mn)

1.00-1.70

1.60

S460N's range supports higher strength.

Phosphorus (P)

0.030

0.025

S355J2's lower P enhances toughness.

Sulfur (S)

0.025

0.025

Identical, ensures weld quality.

Niobium (Nb)

0.05

-

S460N's Nb refines grains for toughness.

Vanadium (V)

0.20

-

S460N's V boosts strength.

Aluminum (Al)

0.020 (min, total)

-

S460N's Al enhances fine-grain structure.

Chromium (Cr)

0.30

0.30

Similar, improves corrosion resistance.

Nickel (Ni)

0.80

0.30

S460N's higher Ni improves toughness.

Molybdenum (Mo)

0.10

-

S460N's Mo enhances strength.

Copper (Cu)

0.55

0.55

Similar, aids corrosion resistance.

Nitrogen (N)

0.025

0.012

S355J2's lower N reduces brittleness.

 

Mechanical Properties Comparison

 

Property

S460N (EN 10025-3, ≤16 mm)

S355J2 (EN 10025-2, ≤16 mm)

Yield Strength (min, MPa)

460

355

Tensile Strength (MPa)

540-720

470-630

Elongation (min, %)

17

22

Impact Toughness (min, J)

27 @ -20°C

27 @ -20°C

Hardness (Brinell)

170-210 (typical)

150-190 (typical)

 

Applications

S460N: Used in high-load structures like bridges, cranes, and heavy machinery in moderate climates, where its 460 MPa yield strength supports heavier designs.

S355J2: Applied in general construction, buildings, bridges, and infrastructure, where 355 MPa yield strength is sufficient for moderate loads and cost-effectiveness is key.

S460N is chosen for projects requiring higher strength, while S355J2 is preferred for versatility and lower costs. For colder climates, consider en 10025 3 s460nl normalized structural steel plate with -50°C toughness.

 

Key Differences Summarized

Feature

S460N (EN 10025-3)

S355J2 (EN 10025-2)

Standard

EN 10025-3 (normalized, fine-grain)

EN 10025-2 (non-alloy, hot-rolled)

Yield Strength

460 MPa (≤16 mm)

355 MPa (≤16 mm)

Tensile Strength

540-720 MPa

470-630 MPa

Elongation

≥17%

≥22%

Toughness

≥27 J @ -20°C

≥27 J @ -20°C

CEV

≤0.48% (≤63 mm)

≤0.45% (≤40 mm)

Applications

High-load structures (bridges, cranes)

General construction, buildings

Cost

Higher (due to strength, processing)

Lower (simpler composition, processing)