Mild steel

ASTM A36 is the common American carbon structural steel for plates, shapes and bars used in bolted, riveted and welded construction.

  • Spec ASTM A36 (plates ≤ 20 mm)
  • Density 7.85 g/cm³
Illustrative material study · not inventory photography

Also known as / equivalents

ASTM A36 designations
SystemDesignation
Also known asA36, SA36

Chemical composition

ASTM A36 chemical composition, wt % (ASTM A36 (plates ≤ 20 mm))
ElementMin %Max %
C—0.25
Si—0.40
FeBal.—
Composition limits as per ASTM A36 (plates ≤ 20 mm). Actual values are given in the Mill Test Certificate (EN 10204 3.1) supplied with each order.

Mechanical properties

ASTM A36 mechanical properties — Plates, shapes and bars; tensile 400–550 MPa
PropertyValue
Tensile strength (min)400 MPa (58.0 ksi)
Yield strength, 0.2% offset (min)250 MPa (36.3 ksi)
Elongation in 50 mm (min)23 %
Minimum values as per ASTM A36 (plates ≤ 20 mm), plates, shapes and bars; tensile 400–550 mpa. Values depend on product form, size and condition.

Physical properties

ASTM A36 physical properties (typical)
PropertyMetricImperial
Density7.85 g/cm³0.284 lb/in³
Magnetic responseMagnetic—

Available forms & specifications

ASTM A36 product forms and specifications
FormSpecificationSize range
PlatesIS 2062, ASTM A360.3 mm – 6 mm
HR sheets & coilsIS 10790.3 mm – 6 mm
CR sheets & coilsIS 5130.3 mm – 6 mm
Chequered platesIS 35020.3 mm – 6 mm
ERW pipesIS 1239, IS 3589, ASTM A531/8" – 24" NB
Hollow sections (SHS / RHS)IS 4923As per IS 808 / standard sizes
Angles, channels & beamsIS 2062, IS 808As per IS 808 / standard sizes
Flats, rounds & squares (bars)IS 20623 mm – 500 mm
Sizes as per standard; other sizes on request.

Corrosion & temperature resistance

Mild steel has no built-in corrosion resistance. It is normally primed and painted, galvanised or lined for outdoor and wet service; galvanised and pre-painted material can be sourced on request.

Applications

ASTM A36: Structures, base plates, general engineering. Building and industrial structures, sheds, frames and supports, base plates, platforms and walkways, gates and grills, machine frames, conveyors and general engineering work.

Frequently asked questions

What is ASTM A36 used for?

US structural carbon steel. Typical uses: structures, base plates, general engineering.

Is ASTM A36 magnetic?

Magnetic.

In which forms can I buy ASTM A36 from Rajkamal Metals?

Coils & Strips, Sheets & Plates, Pipes & Tubes, Round Bars & Rods, Structural Sections, Flanges, Buttweld Fittings, Socket Weld & Threaded Fittings, Fasteners, Dish Ends, Custom Orders. Sizes as per standard; other sizes on request.

Do you supply a Mill Test Certificate with ASTM A36?

Yes. Actual values are given in the Mill Test Certificate (EN 10204 3.1) supplied with each order.

Last updated: 30 October 2026. Grade names identify the supply range; designations are not engineering equivalents. Availability, make, origin and documentation are confirmed at quotation.

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