S890QL is a European standard (EN 10025-6) high-strength structural steel, known for its exceptional yield strength (890 MPa), achieved through quenching and tempering (the 'Q'), and good low-temperature impact toughness (the 'L' signifies testing at -40°C). It's used in demanding applications like cranes, bridges, and heavy transport, offering strength and durability while remaining weldable and formable, allowing for lighter, stronger designs.
Key Characteristics
S: Structural Steel
890: Minimum yield strength of 890 Megapascals (MPa)
Q: Quenched and Tempered (a heat treatment process)
L: Low temperature impact toughness (tested at -40°C)
Properties & Applications
High Strength: Over three times stronger than basic structural steels, ideal for load-bearing structures.
Good Weldability: Despite its strength, it's relatively easy to weld and fabricate.
Durable: Performs well in extreme conditions due to its low-temperature impact resistance.
Applications: Cranes, mobile platforms, bridges, heavy transportation, lifting equipment, and specialized containers.
The price of S890QL steel plate is highly variable and significantly more expensive than common structural steels or even lower high‑strength grades like S690QL. There is no fixed market price, as it depends on multiple factors. However, the following provides a realistic framework for estimation:
Key Price Drivers:
Order Specifications:
Thickness: Price increases sharply with thickness. Plates over 50 mm can cost 50–100% more per ton than plates under 20 mm.
Dimensions & Quantity: Small, cut‑to‑size pieces carry a large premium. Full mill orders or truckload quantities (e.g., 20+ tons) receive significant discounts.
Certification & Testing: Standard EN 10204 3.1 certification is included. Additional requirements (e.g., third‑party inspection, extended impact testing at ‑60°C, or ultrasonic testing) add cost.
Market & Supply Factors:
Raw Material Costs: Alloying elements (Ni, Cr, Mo, V) and energy‑intensive quenching/tempering make prices sensitive to commodity and energy markets.
Limited Producers: S890QL is made by a small number of specialized mills (e.g., Dillinger, SSAB, voestalpine), so regional availability and competition affect pricing.
Processing & Logistics:
Processing: Cutting, drilling, edge preparation, or heat treatment add cost.
Delivery: Location, shipping method, and Incoterms (e.g., EXW, FOB, delivered) are a major part of the final price.
Estimated Price Range (Guideline Only):
S890QL typically costs 50–150% more than S690QL due to its more complex alloying and processing.
Base Price Per Metric Ton: Approximately €2,500 – €5,000+ (or equivalent in USD/GBP).
Lower end: Large‑volume orders (>20 t) of standard‑size, medium‑thickness (20–40 mm) plates.
Upper end: Low‑volume orders (<5 t), very thick plates (>80 mm), small cut pieces, or plates with special certifications/testing.
How to Get an Actual Quote:
To obtain a meaningful quotation, provide suppliers with a detailed Request for Quotation (RFQ) including:
Material grade: EN 10025‑6 S890QL (specify sub‑grade if needed).
Dimensions: Thickness × Width × Length (in mm).
Quantity: Total weight or number of plates.
Required certifications (e.g., EN 10204 3.1, DNV, etc.).
Any processing requirements (cutting, drilling, etc.).
Delivery destination and timeline.
Always request quotes from several specialized steel service centers or directly from mills to compare pricing and lead times. Given the niche nature of S890QL, supplier expertise and quality assurance are as important as price.
1. What is S890QL steel?
S890QL is a very high-strength quenched and tempered structural steel with a minimum yield strength of 890 MPa, designed to maintain good toughness at low temperatures down to -40°C.
2. What are the main applications of S890QL?
It is used in ultra-heavy mobile crane booms, advanced mining drill rigs, military vehicle frames, and specialized offshore components where maximum strength-to-weight ratio is critical in cold climates.
3. How does S890QL differ from S690QL?
S890QL offers higher yield strength (890 MPa vs. 690 MPa) but lower toughness and weldability, making it suitable for more weight-critical yet more demanding applications.
4. What is the chemical composition of S890QL?
It contains low carbon, manganese, silicon, and micro-alloys like niobium, vanadium, and boron, along with nickel, chromium, and molybdenum for hardenability and toughness.
5. Can S890QL be welded easily?
No, welding S890QL is difficult and requires strict procedures: low-hydrogen consumables, preheating (often 150-200°C), controlled heat input, and usually post-weld heat treatment.
6. What standards apply to S890QL steel?
It is primarily governed by the European standard EN 10025-6 for quenched and tempered high-strength structural steels.
7. Is S890QL corrosion resistant?
No, S890QL is not corrosion-resistant and requires protective coatings such as painting, galvanizing, or specialized plating for use in corrosive environments.
8. How to machine S890QL steel?
Machining S890QL is challenging due to its high hardness; it requires robust carbide tooling, slow cutting speeds, high-pressure coolant, and rigid setup.
9. What is the price of S890QL steel plate?
S890QL is significantly more expensive than lower-grade steels, with prices varying based on thickness, quantity, and certification, often ranging from €2,500 to €4,500+ per ton.
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.
