What is A514 grade E steel?
A514 Grade E is a high-strength, quenched and tempered (Q&T) alloy steel plate within the ASTM A514/A514M specification, distinguished by its enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance. Like other A514 grades, it offers a minimum yield strength of 100 ksi (690 MPa), but it achieves approximately twice the corrosion resistance of standard carbon steel through a specific chemistry optimized with higher Molybdenum (Mo) content.
Key Characteristics of A514 Grade E:
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Yield Strength | 100 ksi min (690 MPa) |
| Tensile Strength | 115-135 ksi (790-930 MPa) |
| Key Alloying Element | Molybdenum (Mo): 0.20–0.30% (higher than other A514 grades) |
| Corrosion Resistance | ~2× carbon steel (e.g., A36). Not a full weathering steel like A588, but offers improved durability. |
| Impact Toughness | ≥ 40 ft-lb (54 J) at -40°F (-40°C) |
| Typical Thickness Range | Up to 4 inches (100 mm) |
Primary Applications:
A514 Grade E is used in high-strength structural applications where some environmental exposure is expected, but full weathering steel is not required. Common uses include:
Outdoor heavy equipment (excavator booms, crane components)
Unpainted or intermittently maintained industrial structures
Specialized bridge components where both strength and moderate corrosion resistance are beneficial
Differentiation from Other A514 Grades:
vs. A514 Grade F: Grade E has higher Molybdenum for better corrosion resistance; Grade F is the standard, most common grade without this enhancement.
vs. A588 (weathering steel): A588 has lower strength (50 ksi) but 4–6× better corrosion resistance and forms a stable patina for fully unpainted service.
A514 Grade E Steel: Chemical Composition (ASTM A514/A514M)
| Element | Composition Range / Limit (% by weight) | Purpose / Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.15 – 0.21 | Primary hardenability and strength. Controlled range balances strength with weldability. |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.95 – 1.30 | Increases hardenability, strength, and toughness. |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.035 | Impurity – kept low to prevent cold brittleness. |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.035 | Impurity – kept low to prevent hot shortness and improve ductility. |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.40 – 0.80 | Deoxidizer (killed steel). Increases strength and hardenability. |
| Chromium (Cr) | 0.40 – 0.65 | Enhances hardenability, strength, and atmospheric corrosion resistance. |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 0.20 – 0.30 | Key Differentiator for Grade E. Significantly increases hardenability, high-temperature strength, and enhances atmospheric corrosion resistance. |
| Boron (B) | 0.0005 – 0.005 (typical) | Trace element that dramatically increases hardenability, allowing high strength in thick sections. |
| Vanadium (V) | 0.03 – 0.08 | Refines grain size and provides secondary precipitation hardening for strength and toughness. |
| Nickel (Ni) | Reported (residual) | May be present as a residual element; can improve toughness. |
| Copper (Cu) | ≤ 0.50 (when specified) | Residual element; can contribute slightly to corrosion resistance. |
Why Choose A514 Grade E?
It is selected when designers need 100 ksi strength and can benefit from moderate, "bonus" corrosion resistance in exposed applications-serving as a bridge material between ultra-high-strength structural steel and true weathering steel. Its use is niche but valuable in heavy industries where equipment faces both extreme loads and outdoor exposure.
1. What is the key chemical difference that defines A514 Grade E?
A514 Grade E is distinguished by its elevated Molybdenum (Mo) content (0.20-0.30%), which provides enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance (approximately 2× that of carbon steel) while maintaining the 100 ksi yield strength of the A514 family.
2. Is A514 Grade E considered a true weathering steel like A588?
No, it is not a full weathering steel. While it offers improved corrosion resistance (~2× carbon steel), true weathering steels like A588 or A709W provide 4–6× resistance and form a stable, self-protecting patina for fully unpainted exposure.
3. What is the primary application niche for A514 Grade E?
It is used for high-strength structural components exposed to outdoor environments but not requiring a painted or full weathering system, such as heavy equipment booms, frames, and industrial structures subject to moderate atmospheric conditions.
4. How does A514 Grade E compare to A514 Grade F in terms of availability?
A514 Grade E is less common and more specialized than Grade F. Grade F is the standard, widely available 100 ksi Q&T steel, while Grade E is specified only when its enhanced corrosion resistance is a required design feature.
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.
