Both S460N and S460NL offer a fine-grain structure and 460 MPa yield strength, but S460N is tested for -20°C toughness, while S460NL excels at -50°C, making it ideal for colder climates. As part of the en 10025 3 normalized steel plate family, both grades are normalized for consistent performance.
S460N (EN 10025-3): Normalized or normalized rolled, with 460 MPa yield strength and -20°C toughness, ideal for bridges and cranes in moderate climates (e.g., temperate Europe).
S460NL (EN 10025-3): Normalized or normalized rolled, with 460 MPa yield strength and -50°C toughness, suited for cold climates (e.g., Arctic regions or northern Europe).
Both grades share similar processing but differ in low-temperature performance, with S460NL offering superior toughness for extreme conditions.
Chemical Composition Comparison
|
Element |
S460N (EN 10025-3, Ladle, max %) |
S460NL (EN 10025-3, Ladle, max %) |
Role in Properties |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Carbon (C) |
0.20 |
0.20 |
Enhances strength, kept low for weldability. |
|
Silicon (Si) |
0.60 |
0.60 |
Aids deoxidation, improves strength. |
|
Manganese (Mn) |
1.00-1.70 |
1.00-1.70 |
Boosts strength and toughness. |
|
Phosphorus (P) |
0.030 |
0.025 |
S460NL's lower P enhances toughness. |
|
Sulfur (S) |
0.025 |
0.020 |
S460NL's lower S improves weld quality. |
|
Niobium (Nb) |
0.05 |
0.05 |
Refines grains for toughness. |
|
Vanadium (V) |
0.20 |
0.20 |
Boosts strength via precipitation hardening. |
Mechanical Properties Comparison
|
Property |
S460N (EN 10025-3, ≤16 mm) |
S460NL (EN 10025-3, ≤16 mm) |
|---|---|---|
|
Yield Strength (min, MPa) |
460 |
460 |
|
Tensile Strength (MPa) |
540-720 |
540-720 |
|
Elongation (min, %) |
17 |
17 |
|
Impact Toughness (min, J) |
27 @ -20°C |
27 @ -50°C |
|
Hardness (Brinell) |
170-210 (typical) |
170-210 (typical) |
Processing and Fabrication
S460N: Normalized for consistent microstructure; suited for standard welding and machining. Preheating (100-150°C) for >20 mm; PWHT optional (550-650°C).
S460NL: Normalized with stricter impurity control for enhanced toughness; similar welding requirements.
Consumables: Both use ER70S-6 (GMAW), EM12K flux with EH14 wire (SAW). S460NL's lower impurities reduce weld imperfections.
Applications
S460N: Bridges, cranes, and building frameworks in moderate climates (e.g., temperate regions).
S460NL: Offshore platforms, wind towers, and bridges in cold climates (e.g., Arctic or northern Europe) due to superior low-temperature toughness.
S460NL is preferred for sub-zero conditions, while S460N suits milder environments.
