SA283 Grade C is a structural quality, low to intermediate tensile strength carbon steel plate used for general applications like structural components, tanks, and equipment, known for being easily weldable and machinable, with mechanical properties including a minimum yield strength of 30 ksi (205 MPa) and tensile strength of 55-75 ksi (380-515 MPa). It's an ASME/ASTM standard (A283/A283M) for structural use, distinct from pressure vessel steels, and is supplied as-rolled, offering good formability for various fabrications.
Key Characteristics:
Type: Structural Carbon Steel Plate.
Applications: General structural purposes, low-pressure tanks, building construction, equipment fabrication.
Strength: Low to intermediate tensile strength.
Weldability: Good, generally considered soft and easy to weld.
SA283 Grade C is a general-purpose low-carbon structural steel plate with moderate strength (30 ksi yield). It is commonly used in applications where weldability, formability, and cost-effectiveness are prioritized over high strength or specialized properties.
Here are its primary applications:
1. General Fabrication & Light Structural Work
Ductwork, chutes, and housings for industrial and agricultural equipment.
Frames, supports, and platforms for machinery and light structures.
Base plates, brackets, and stiffeners that are not highly stressed.
2. Storage Containers & Tanks (Non-Pressure)
Water storage tanks, bins, and silos for bulk materials (e.g., grain, coal).
Covers, walkways, and guards for tanks and vessels.
Note: It is NOT used for pressure-retaining parts of vessels; for that, materials like SA516 are required.
3. Building & Construction
Light building frames, roof decks, and wall panels in low-rise structures.
Stair treads, railings, and ornamental work where welding is needed.
4. Automotive & Transportation
Trailer bodies, floor plates, and non-critical parts of heavy trucks and trailers.
Agricultural equipment bodies and panels.
5. ASME Code Applications (when specified as SA283)
For non-pressure boundary components in ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code items, such as:
Support skirts, ladders, platforms, and walkways attached to pressure vessels.
Structural reinforcement that does not form the pressure-containing envelope.
Why SA283 Grade C is Chosen:
Low Cost: It is one of the most economical structural plate steels.
Excellent Weldability & Formability: Very low carbon content allows easy welding and bending without preheat or special procedures (for most thicknesses).
Adequate Strength: 30 ksi yield is sufficient for many light to moderate load applications.
1. What Is SA283 Grade C?
SA283 Grade C is a low-carbon, general-purpose structural steel plate in the ASTM A283 standard, commonly used for low-stress structural applications like tanks, bins, and building frames where welding and forming are required.
2. What Is The Yield Strength Of SA283 Grade C?
The minimum yield strength of SA283 Grade C is 30,000 psi (205 MPa), making it suitable for applications with moderate structural loads.
3. What Is The Difference Between SA283 Grade A, B, C, And D?
The primary difference is increasing strength: Grade A (24 ksi min yield), Grade B (27 ksi), Grade C (30 ksi), and Grade D (33 ksi). Higher grades offer more strength but slightly less formability.
4. Is SA283 Grade C Weldable?
Yes, SA283 Grade C has excellent weldability due to its low carbon content, making it suitable for most common welding methods like SMAW, GMAW, and SAW without requiring complex procedures.
5. What Is SA283 Grade C Equivalent To In Europe?
The closest European equivalent is S235JR (EN 10025-2) based on comparable yield strength (~235 MPa nominal) and general application. Note that S235JR has mandatory impact toughness.
6. Where Is SA283 Grade C Commonly Used?
It is used in fabricating storage tanks, water towers, ductwork, building frames, agricultural equipment, and other general structural components not subjected to high stress or pressure.
7. Can SA283 Grade C Be Galvanized?
Yes, its low-carbon, low-alloy composition makes it an excellent candidate for hot-dip galvanizing, commonly used for outdoor structural components requiring corrosion protection.
8. What Is The Chemical Composition Of SA283 Grade C?
Typical composition includes Carbon (max 0.24%), Manganese (max 0.90%), Phosphorus (max 0.035%), and Sulfur (max 0.04%), ensuring good weldability and formability.
9. Is SA283 Grade C A Pressure Vessel Steel?
No, it is not rated for pressure-retaining service. For pressure vessels, materials like SA516 Grade 60 or 70 (with notch toughness requirements) are specifically designed and coded for that purpose.
10. What Is The Difference Between SA283 And A283?
There is no technical difference. A283 is the ASTM material standard, while SA283 is the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code adoption of the same standard, requiring ASME-compliant certification for code-bound components.
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.
