How to differentiate between A514 grade E and A514 grade H?
Differentiating between A514 Grade E and A514 Grade H is critical for specification, as they are designed for distinctly different primary purposes, despite sharing the same 100 ksi minimum yield strength.The core difference is: Grade E is optimized for enhanced corrosion resistance, while Grade H is optimized for maximum hardenability in ultra-thick sections.
A514 Grade E is a high-strength, quenched and tempered alloy steel within the ASTM A514 specification, characterized by a minimum yield strength of 100 ksi (690 MPa) and enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance (approximately twice that of carbon steel). This improved durability is achieved through a specific chemistry with elevated Molybdenum (Mo) content, making it suitable for high-strength structural components, like heavy equipment booms and frames, that will face outdoor exposure but where the full properties of a dedicated weathering steel are not required.
A514 Grade H is a high-strength, quenched and tempered alloy steel in the ASTM A514 family, engineered specifically for extreme thickness applications (typically up to 6 inches or 150 mm). It achieves the standard 100 ksi (690 MPa) minimum yield strength through a chemistry featuring higher Manganese (Mn) content combined with Boron , which provides exceptional hardenability to ensure full strength is maintained even at the core of very thick plates. Its primary use is in the most massive structural components, such as the bases of giant mining excavators or press frames, where unparalleled through-thickness properties are critical.
Key differences between A514 Gr.E and A514 Gr.H:
A514 Gr.E: Higher manganese content and no mandatory nickel requirement.
A514 Gr.H: Lower manganese content, requires 0.3–0.7% nickel for enhanced toughness.
Gnee offers A514 Gr.E and Gr.H steel plates from stock, with thicknesses 6–150 mm, widths 5–10 feet, and lengths 20–40 feet, ready for structural and heavy machinery applications.
Chemical Composition (Heat Analysis, Max %)
| Standard | Grade | C | Mn | P | S | Si | Ni | Cr | Mo | V | Ti | B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASTM A514/A514M | A514 Gr.E | 0.12–0.20 | 0.4–0.7 | 0.035 | 0.035 | 0.2–0.4 | - | 1.4–2.0 | 0.4–0.6 | - | 0.01–0.1 | 0.001–0.005 |
| ASTM A514/A514M | A514 Gr.H | 0.12–0.21 | 0.95–1.3 | 0.035 | 0.035 | 0.2–0.35 | 0.3–0.7 | 0.4–0.65 | 0.2–0.3 | 0.03–0.08 | - | 0.0005–0.005 |
Mechanical Properties
| Standard | Grade | Thickness (mm) | Yield Strength (MPa, min) | Tensile Strength (MPa) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASTM A514/A514M | A514 Gr.E | ≤65 | 690 | 760–895 |
| ASTM A514/A514M | A514 Gr.H | ≤65 | 690 | 760–895 |
Both A514 Gr.E and Gr.H are ideal for welded structural applications, bridge construction, and heavy machinery, providing a balance of strength, toughness, and fabricability.
Performance & Application: How A514 grade E and A514 grade H Are Used
This is the practical consequence of their chemistry.
| Aspect | A514 Grade E | A514 Grade H |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Maximum Thickness | Up to 4 inches (100 mm) standard. | Up to 6 inches (150 mm) or more. |
| Corrosion Resistance | ~2x better than carbon steel. Suitable for unpainted or intermittently maintained outdoor use. | Similar to standard carbon steel. No enhanced corrosion resistance. Requires painting for outdoor exposure. |
| Primary Application Examples | • Excavator booms for outdoor mining. • Unpainted industrial structures. • Components where painting is difficult but some rust resistance is beneficial. |
• Base frames and columns for ultra-heavy presses. • The thickest sections of dragline excavators. • Any component where plate thickness exceeds 4-5 inches and full-core strength is mandatory. |
What distinguishes ASTM A514 GR E from other grades?
GR E excels in low-temperature toughness, making it suitable for cold environments with yields up to 100 ksi under 2.5 inches.
Is welding A514 GR E straightforward?
Yes, with preheating and proper fillers to avoid cracking-our plates are optimized for it.
Key applications plate.
Offshore rigs, mining in cold areas, and structures requiring impact resistance at low temps.
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.
