What is difference for ASTM A514 steel materials and ASTM A517 ?

ASTM A517 and ASTM A514 steel materials are both high strength steels with min.690Mpa yield point and with Quenching and Tempering heat treatment.A517 steel materials have grades A,B,E,F,H,P,Q,S and A514 steel materials have grades A,B,C,E,F,H,J,K,M,P,Q,R,S,T.See the comparasion table,a514gra and a517gra are completely the same in chemical composition and mechnical properties.

A514 Steel Materials is a family of ultra-high-strength, quenched and tempered (Q&T) alloy steels defined by the ASTM A514/A514M specification, characterized by a minimum yield strength of 100 ksi (690 MPa) and excellent low-temperature toughness. These boron-treated steels are specifically engineered for critical, weight-sensitive structural applications-such as crane booms, mining shovel dippers, and high-stress bridge connections-where maximum load capacity and fatigue resistance are paramount, and corrosion protection is typically managed through paint systems. The various grades (e.g., A, B, E, F, H) differ mainly in chemical composition to optimize properties like hardenability for different thicknesses or, in the case of Grade E, enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance.

ASTM A517 is the original and historically significant standard that is now technically identical to ASTM A514. Both standards cover the exact same family of 100 ksi yield strength, quenched and tempered alloy steel plates, with the same grade designations and requirements. The dual designation exists due to historical reasons: A517 was initially developed for pressure vessel applications, while A514 was for structural uses. Today, A514 is the predominant specification for structural applications, while A517 is still referenced in some legacy pressure vessel or military specifications, but the materials themselves are interchangeable in terms of chemistry and mechanical properties.

So what is difference for ASTM A514 and ASTM A517 steel materials ? The main difference is the steel materials' final applications.ASTM A517 steel materials can used in fusion welded boilers and other pressure vessels,but A514 steel materials only can used in welded bridges and other structures.So A517 normally equivalent to US T-1 steel materials,and A514 normally equivalent to Bridge steel materials US A709 HPS 100W.

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1. What is  A514 Grade?
A514 Steel is a family of ultra-high-strength, quenched and tempered (Q&T) alloy steels defined by the ASTM A514/A514M specification, characterized by a minimum yield strength of 100 ksi (690 MPa) and excellent low-temperature toughness.

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.