
S235JR is a widely used, low-carbon, non-alloy structural steel (EN 10025-2 standard) known for its good weldability, ductility, and strength, designated by a minimum yield strength of 235 MPa and a +20°C impact test (J), making it ideal for general construction, infrastructure, and mechanical parts like I-beams, plates, and transmission towers, though it requires protective coatings in corrosive environments.
Key Properties
Classification: Non-alloy structural steel.
Yield Strength (Minimum): 235 MPa (for thicker sections).
Tensile Strength: 360-510 MPa (varies with thickness).
Impact Energy: 27 Joules at 20°C (indicated by 'JR').
Weldability: Excellent; can be welded without pre-heating or post-heat treatment for most applications.
Composition: Low carbon content (max ~0.17%), with controlled amounts of Manganese, Phosphorus, Sulfur, and Copper.
Applications
Construction: Buildings, bridges, structural elements.
Engineering: Machinery parts, power transmission towers, general structural components.
Fabrication: I-beams, channels, angle bars, plates, and custom CNC parts.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros: Cost-effective, readily available, good mechanical properties, excellent weldability.
Cons: Lower corrosion resistance than higher alloy steels, requiring protective coatings.

What does the 'JR' mean in S235JR?
The 'JR' in S235JR is a quality designation that specifically indicates the material's impact toughness (its resistance to brittle fracture) at a specific temperature, according to the European standard EN 10025-2.
Detailed Breakdown:
J: Stands for the test method: Charpy V-Notch impact test (Joule).
R: Indicates the minimum test temperature: +20°C (Room Temperature).
Therefore, S235JR means:
S = Structural Steel
235 = Minimum yield strength of 235 MPa
J = Charpy Impact (Joules)
R = Tested at Room Temperature (+20°C)
Key Specification: The 'JR' designation guarantees that the steel has a minimum absorbed energy of 27 Joules when tested with the Charpy V-notch method at +20°C.
Comparison with Other Common Designations:
S235J0: Tested at 0°C.
S235J2: Tested at -20°C.
S235K2: Tested at -20°C, with a different specified minimum impact energy.
In summary, the 'JR' is a mandatory toughness rating that ensures the steel is sufficiently ductile and safe for use in general structural applications at ambient temperatures. For colder environments, a grade like J2 or K2 would be specified.
Chemical Composition Of Steel S235JR
|
C |
Mn |
P |
S |
N |
Cu |
|
≤0.17 |
≤1.40 |
≤0.035 |
≤0.035 |
≤0.12 |
≤0.55 |
Mechanical Properties Of S235JR Steel At Room Temperature
|
Nominal thickness (mm) |
Minimum yield strength, ReН, MPa |
Strength limit, Rm (MPa) |
|
≤16 |
235 |
360-510 |
|
>16≤40 |
225 |
360-510 |
|
>40≤100 |
215 |
360-510 |
|
>100≤150 |
195 |
350-500 |
|
>150≤200 |
185 |
340-490 |
|
>200≤250 |
175 |
340-490 |
|
>250≤400 |
165 |
330-480 |
Yield Strength
| Yield Strength (≥ N/mm2); Dia. (d) mm | |||||||
| Steel Series | Steel Grade (Material Number) | d≤16 | 16< d ≤40 | 40< d ≤100 | 100< d ≤150 | 150< d ≤200 | 200< d ≤250 |
| S235 | S235JR (1.0038) | 235 | 225 | 215 | 195 | 185 | 175 |
Tensile Strength
| Tensile Strength (≥ N/mm2) | |||||
| Steel Series | Steel Grade (Material Number) | d<3 | 3 ≤ d ≤ 100 | 100 < d ≤ 150 | 150 < d ≤ 250 |
| S235 | S235JR (1.0038) | 360-510 | 360-510 | 350-500 | 340-490 |
1MPa = 1N/mm2
What is S235JR?
S235JR is a non-alloy structural steel grade according to the European standard EN 10025-2, known for its minimum yield strength of 235 MPa.
What is the chemical composition of S235JR steel?
Its typical composition includes max 0.17% Carbon, max 1.40% Manganese, and controlled levels of phosphorus and sulfur.
What is the yield strength of S235JR?
The minimum yield strength of S235JR steel is 235 Megapascals (MPa).
What is the difference between S235JR and S235J0?
The main difference is in impact toughness at lower temperatures; S235JR is tested at +20°C, while S235J0 is tested at 0°C.
Is S235JR equivalent to A36?
S235JR is a similar general-purpose structural steel to ASTM A36, but they are from different standards and have minor differences in properties.
What is the density of S235JR steel?
The density of S235JR is approximately 7.85 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³), the same as most carbon steels.
Can S235JR be welded?
Yes, S235JR has good weldability using common methods like SMAW, MIG, and MAG without requiring pre-heating under normal conditions.
What is S235JR used for?
It is commonly used in general construction, steel frames, machinery components, and various structural applications.
What does the 'JR' mean in S235JR?
The 'JR' indicates the Charpy V-notch impact energy requirement at room temperature (+20°C), which is 27 Joules minimum.
Is S235JR corrosion resistant?
No, S235JR is not a corrosion-resistant grade. It is a non-alloy carbon steel and requires protective coatings like paint or galvanization for outdoor use.
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.


