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A709-50W Corten Weathering Steel

Jan 06, 2026 Leave a message

A709-50W Corten Weathering Steel

 

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General Product Description of A709-50W

A709 Grade 50W is the weathering steel variant within the same ASTM A709 specification, offering the same 50 ksi yield strength and mandatory toughness. Its key distinction is a chemical composition enhanced with copper, chromium, and nickel, enabling it to form a dense, self-protecting rust patina when exposed to the atmosphere. This patina eliminates the need for paint, making it the prescribed material for modern, low-maintenance unpainted bridges with a distinctive, durable finish.

 

Available Dimensions of A709-50W

Grade

Thickness
(in)

Width
(in)

Length
(in)

50W

0.1875 - 3.00

72 - 120

240 - 1200

50WT

0.1875 - 3.00

72 - 120

240 - 1200

50WF

0.1875 - 2.50

72 - 120

240 - 1200

Width: Please inquire for plate widths less than 72 in. and over 120 in. Inquire for widths greater than 96 in. for thicknesses less than 0.250 in.

Length: Please inquire for plate lengths greater than the listed maxima. Plate length may be limited by maximum individual plate weight of 66,000 lbs. Plate length maximum of 960 in. for thicknesses less than 7/16 in.

50WF: For plate thicknesses greater than 2.0 inches and up to 2.5 inches, the maximum plate width is 100 inches.

 

Mechanical Properties of A709-50W

Tensile testing is performed in the transverse direction according to ASTM A370 requirements.

Hide/Show specific columns Edit

Grade

Thickness
(in)

Yield strength 1)
(min ksi)

Tensile strength
(min ksi)

Elongation in 2" 2)
(min %)

Elongation in 8" 2)
(min %)

50W

0.1875 - 3.00

50

70

21

18

50WT

0.1875 - 3.00

50

70

21

18

50WF

0.1875 - 2.50

50

70

21

18

 

 

Impact Properties of A709-50W

Grade

Thickness
(in)

Min Longitudinal Average Energy 1)
(ft-lbs)

Min Longitudinal Individual Value 1)
(ft-lbs)

Zone 1 Test Temp

Zone 2 Test Temp

Zone 3 Test Temp

50WT

0.1875 - 2.00

15

-

70 oF

40 oF

10 oF

50WT

2.01 - 3.00

20

-

70 oF

40 oF

10 oF

50WF

0.1875 - 2.00

25

20

70 oF

40 oF

10 oF

50WF

2.01 - 2.50

30

24

70 oF

40 oF

10 oF

 

Summary

"A709-50W Corten" refers to ASTM A709 Grade 50W, which is the code-specific, high-strength weathering steel for structural bridge and building frames. While "Corten" correctly describes its weathering behavior, the term is non-structural. For engineering and procurement, ASTM A709 Grade 50W is the precise, unambiguous, and required designation to ensure you receive the correct material for load-bearing, unpainted structural applications.

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What is ASTM A709 steel grade?

The ASTM A709 is the Standard Specification for Structural Steel for Bridges and encompasses carbon, high-strength low-alloy, and quenched and tempered alloy steels used as structural plates in the construction of bridges. SSAB offers the following five grades of A709; 36, 50, 50W, HPS 50W and HPS 70W.

What is the difference between ASTM A572 Grade 50 and ASTM A709 Grade 50?

A572 Grade 50: Used in a wide range of structural applications, including buildings, transmission towers, equipment, and general construction. It's not specifically optimized for bridges. A709 Grade 50: Primarily used for bridge construction and other structures where enhanced toughness and weldability are critical.

What is the yield strength of ASTM A709 grade 50?

Grade 50 steel of this specification requires a minimum yield strength of 50 ksi. Used as structural members in bridge building or for similar structures.

What is the difference between ASTM A36 and A709?

ASTM A709 grade 36 is a bridge material wherein carbon adds to the strength and hardenability of the steel. A36 has less than0. 30% carbon and thus, do not possess high hardenability. ASTM A709 grade 36 steel plate has improved corrosion resistance and can be used in outdoor applications.

What is ASTM A572 grade 50 equivalent to?

ASTM A572 Grade 50 is equivalent to several other steel grades, with the most common international equivalents being S355JR (European standard) and Q345B (Chinese standard). The best equivalent depends on the specific project requirements, so it is always best to consult material specifications and a specialist to confirm compatibility.

 

Full specification and details are available on request. The above information is provided for guidance purposes only. For specific design requirements please contact our technical sales staff.

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