S275J2 is a European standard (EN 10025-2) non-alloy structural steel known for its good weldability, formability, and toughness, especially at low temperatures, indicated by the "J2" (27 joules impact energy at -20°C). It offers a minimum yield strength of 275 MPa, making it a versatile, high-tensile steel used in bridges, power plants, and wind towers, often supplied normalized or control rolled.
Key Characteristics:
S275: Indicates a minimum yield strength of 275 MPa (N/mm²).
J2: Signifies a Charpy V-notch impact test at -20°C, requiring at least 27 Joules of energy.
Low Carbon: A low-carbon, high-tensile steel that is easily weldable.
Properties:
Yield Strength: Minimum 275 MPa.
Tensile Strength: 430-580 MPa.
Elongation: Around 23%.
Hardness: Typically 130-180 HB (Brinell).
Applications:
General structural purposes.
Bridge construction.
Power plants.
Wind tower components.
Chemical composition % of steel S275J2 (1.0145): EN 10025-2-2004
| Nominal thickness =< 40(mm) CEV max = 0.40 |
| C | Mn | P | S | Cu | CEV |
| max 0.18 | max 1.5 | max 0.03 | max 0.03 | max 0.55 | max 0.42 |
The price of S275J2 steel is influenced by a combination of global commodity trends, production specifics, and product characteristics-with its low-temperature toughness certification being a key differentiator from standard grades.
Primary Price Influencers:
| Category | Specific Factors |
|---|---|
| 1. Raw Material Costs | Iron Ore & Scrap Prices: Global benchmarks set the base cost. High scrap demand raises costs for EAF-produced steel, common in Europe. |
| 2. Production & Energy | Energy Prices: Intensive processes (melting, rolling, normalizing heat treatment) are sensitive to electricity and natural gas costs. "J2" Manufacturing: Guaranteed -20°C toughness requires controlled rolling/heat treatment and extra quality control, adding cost. |
| 3. Market Dynamics | Demand-Supply Balance: High demand from cold-climate infrastructure (bridges, wind turbines, offshore) can tighten supply. Seasonal factors (e.g., winter construction pauses) may cause fluctuations. |
| Trade Policies: EU safeguards, tariffs, or anti-dumping measures affect import competition and domestic pricing. | |
| 4. Product Specifications | Toughness Certification ("J2"): Mandatory Charpy testing at -20°C adds lab costs and limits production flexibility versus standard grades. |
| Form & Dimensions: Complex profiles (beams, columns) cost more than simple plates or sheets. Custom sizes/tolerances increase processing expenses. | |
| Quantity & Order Size: Bulk mill orders (full truckloads/shiploads) receive discounts; small retail quantities incur premiums. | |
| Certification & Traceability: EN 10204 3.1/3.2 certificates, additional testing (e.g., impact tests per batch), and origin tracing add administrative and testing overhead. | |
| 5. Logistics & Geography | Transportation: Distance from mill/service center, fuel surcharges, and expedited freight requirements impact delivered cost. |
| Regional Markets: Prices vary across the EU, UK, North America, and Asia due to local supply chains, energy costs (e.g., EU carbon taxes), and climate-driven demand (e.g., higher need in cold regions). | |
| 6. Macroeconomic Factors | Currency Exchange Rates: A weak euro against the US dollar raises costs for dollar-denominated raw materials. |
| Inflation & Interest Rates: Higher production costs and reduced construction demand from tight monetary policy can soften or stabilize prices. |
Why S275J2 Typically Costs More Than S275JR:
Process Control: Requires precise chemistry, normalized rolling/heat treatment, and fine-grain practice to achieve -20°C toughness.
Testing & Certification: Every batch must be impact-tested at -20°C, with certified results provided.
Lower Production Volume: Niche demand compared to high-volume commodity grades like S235JR.
1. What is S275J2 steel?
S275J2 is a non-alloy structural steel grade per EN 10025-2, with a minimum yield strength of 275 MPa and guaranteed impact toughness at -20°C.
2. What does the 'J2' in S275J2 mean?
The 'J2' indicates Charpy V-notch impact testing at -20°C, ensuring a minimum absorbed energy of 27 Joules for use in cold environments.
3. What are the main applications of S275J2?
It is used in structural components exposed to cold climates, such as bridges, offshore platforms, transmission towers, and industrial buildings in regions with harsh winters.
4. What is the difference between S275JR and S275J2?
S275JR is impact tested at +20°C, while S275J2 is tested at -20°C, making J2 suitable for applications where temperatures drop well below freezing.
5. What is the yield strength of S275J2?
The minimum yield strength is 275 MPa for thicknesses up to 16 mm, with decreasing values for thicker sections as per the standard.
6. Can S275J2 be welded?
Yes, S275J2 has good weldability. However, proper procedures-including potential preheating and use of suitable filler metals-are essential, especially for thick sections or welding in cold conditions.
7. What is the chemical composition of S275J2?
It typically contains max 0.20% Carbon, max 1.50% Manganese, and controlled levels of phosphorus and sulfur (e.g., P ≤ 0.035%, S ≤ 0.035%).
8. Is S275J2 equivalent to ASTM A572 Grade 50?
No, S275J2 has lower yield strength (275 MPa vs. 345 MPa) and includes mandatory -20°C impact testing, while A572 Grade 50 generally has no mandatory toughness requirement.
9. What is the difference between S275J2 and S355J2?
S355J2 has a higher minimum yield strength (355 MPa) but similar impact toughness at -20°C, making it stronger for cold-weather applications.
10. Is S275J2 corrosion resistant?
No, S275J2 is not corrosion-resistant. Like other carbon structural steels, it requires protective coatings such as painting or galvanizing 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.
