This specification covers high-strength low-alloy structural steel shapes, plates, and bars for welded, riveted, or bolted construction intended primarily for use as structural members where savings in weight [mass] or added durability are important. The atmospheric corrosion resistance of the steel in most environments is substantially better than that of carbon structural steels with or without copper addition. When properly exposed to the atmosphere, this steel can be used bare (unpainted) for many applications. This specification is limited to material up to 4 in. [100 mm], inclusive, in thickness.

ASTM A242/A242M Chemical Composition

Element Composition, %
Carbon, max 0.15
Manganese, max 1.00
Phosphorus, max 0.15
Sulfur, max 0.05
Copper, min 0.20

ASTM A242/A242M Mechanical Properties

Type Tensile strength, min, ksi [MPa] Yield point, min, ksi [MPa] Elongation in 8 in. [200 mm], min, % Elongation in 2 in. [50 mm], min, %


Plates and BarsA
For thicknesses 3⁄4 in.[20 mm], andunder 70 [480] 50 [345] 18B,C 21C
For thicknesses over3⁄4 to 11⁄2 in. [20 to 40 mm], incl 67 [460] 46 [315] 18B,C 21C
For thicknesses over11⁄2 to 4 in. [40 to 100 mm], incl 63 [435] 42 [290] 18B,C 21C


Structural Shapes
For flange or leg thicknesses 1.5 in. [40 mm] and under 70 [485] 50 [345] 18C 21
For flange thicknesses over 1.5 in. [40 mm] to 2 in. [50 mm], incl 67 [460] 46 [315] 18 21
For flange thicknesses over 2 in. [50 mm] 63 [435] 42 [290] 18 21D
Note:

A See the Orientation subsection in the Tension Tests section of Specification A6/A6M.
B Elongation not required to be determined for floor plate.
C For plates wider than 24 in. [600 mm] the elongation requirement is reduced two percentage points.
D For wide flange shapes over 426 lb/ft [634 kg/m], elongation in 2 in. [50 mm] of 18 % minimum applies.