A36 and S355 are two of the most widely used structural steel grades across the globe. While A36 is primarily an American ASTM standard, S355 is a European EN 10025 grade. Both are used in construction, infrastructure, and fabrication, but they differ significantly in mechanical strength, regional availability, and industry-specific requirements. Hindustan Steel Corporation supplies both grades and their Indian equivalents for international and domestic buyers. This guide explains every technical and commercial aspect so you can choose the right material confidently.
What Is A36 Steel and How Does It Compare to S355?
ASTM A36 is a mild carbon steel with good weldability, machinability, and low cost, making it ideal for general structural purposes. It offers a minimum yield strength of 250 MPa.
S355, on the other hand, is a high-strength low-alloy steel under EN 10025-2, with yield strength starting from 355 MPa. It is more robust, used in heavier-duty applications, and complies with stricter European design standards.
Application Comparison – Where Are A36 and S355 Used?
- A36 Steel Uses: bridges, sheds, platforms, construction beams, trailers, agricultural machinery.
- S355 Steel Uses: cranes, offshore structures, heavy vehicle frames, pressure vessels, wind towers, bridges.
- Conclusion: Use A36 when economy and standard strength suffice; choose S355 when higher strength or EU standards are required
Mechanical Properties – A36 vs S355 Strength, Ductility & Impact
| Property | ASTM A36 | S355 (JR / J2) |
|---|---|---|
| Yield Strength (MPa) | 250 | 355 (JR), 275-355+ |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 400–550 | 470–630 |
| Elongation (%) | 20–25 | 18–22 |
| Impact Toughness | Not specified | 27J at -20°C (J2) |
S355 offers greater structural resilience and is preferred in high-load applications or colder regions
International Standards – ASTM vs EN Explained
- ASTM A36 falls under ASTM A6/A6M, used widely in the U.S., Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
- S355 is defined under EN 10025-2, mandatory for most European structural applications.
- Both grades can be dual-certified or replaced with Indian standards like IS 2062 E250 (for A36) or E350 (for S355).
Equivalents and Alternatives to A36 and S355
| Grade | ASTM | EN | IS | DIN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mild Steel | A36 | S235 | E250 | St37-2 |
| High Strength | A572 Gr50 | S355 J2 | E350/E450 | St52-3 |
Hindustan Steel Corporation offers Indian equivalents for faster delivery and cost benefits.
Available Sizes, Thickness, and Tolerance Options
- Thickness: 3 mm to 100 mm
- Width: 1250 mm to 2500 mm
- Length: 6000 mm to 12000 mm
- Cut-to-length or profile shape available on request
- Custom thickness tolerances offered for structural components
Weldability and Fabrication Comparison
- A36: Easier to cut and weld, great for beginner-level fabrication and DIY.
- S355: Requires skilled welding but gives stronger joint integrity and less deformation.
We offer both flame-cut and plasma-cut profiles as per your fabrication requirements.
Why Choose Hindustan Steel for A36 / S355 Supply?
- Dual-grade stock (A36/S355 + Indian equivalents)
- Precision-cut and ready-to-weld plates
- 100% mill test reports, traceability, and export packaging
- Serving both project buyers and stockists in 15+ countries
Related Grades You Can Consider
- A572 Gr 50 / 60 – Higher yield, ASTM-based
- IS 2062 E350 – Indian alternative to S355
- EN 10025 S235JR / S275JR – Similar grades to A36
- DIN St37 / St52 – Common for German standards
Export Markets for A36 and S355 Equivalents
We regularly export A36 and S355 plates and Indian equivalents to:
- UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman
- South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria
- Vietnam, Philippines, Thailand
- USA, Canada, Australia
With GCC and CE markings available on request.
Structural Steel Plate Exports – Global Destinations
We export to:
- UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait
- Vietnam, Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia
- USA, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana
- Mauritius, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh
Offered on FOB, CIF, or DDP terms with all compliance certificates.
Buyer’s Tip – How to Decide Between A36 and S355?
- Use A36 if your application is standard, low-budget, or follows ASTM norms.
- Use S355 if your job requires higher yield strength or Euro compliance.
- Still unsure? Send your drawings or specs – our team will suggest the right fit.
Certifications & Quality Checks
- ISO 9001:2015
- BIS / IS 2062 marking
- CE / EN 10204 3.1
- Ultrasonic tested and mill certified
- Additional 3rd-party inspection available (BV, TUV, SGS)
FAQs for A36 vs S355
Is S355 stronger than A36?
Yes, S355 is significantly stronger than A36 in yield and tensile strength.
Can A36 steel replace S355?
Only for low-stress structures. For critical load-bearing applications, A36 is not suitable.
Is S355 equivalent to IS 2062 E350?
Yes, IS 2062 E350 is a widely accepted Indian equivalent to S355.
Which is more weldable – A36 or S355?
Both are weldable. A36 is easier for basic jobs, S355 requires skilled welders.
What is the cost difference between A36 and S355?
S355 is usually 10–20% more expensive due to higher strength and compliance.
What is the chemical composition of A36 vs S355?
A36: 0.26% C max, S355: 0.20% C max with added Mn, Si, and other elements.
What is the S355 J2 grade?
It’s a subgrade of S355 with better impact resistance tested at -20°C.
What are ASTM and EN standards?
ASTM is American (e.g., A36), EN is European (e.g., S355).
Is S355 better for cold climates?
Yes, especially subgrades like S355J2 which offer superior toughness.
What is the density of A36 and S355?
Both have similar density: ~7.85 g/cm³.
Is A36 available in India?
Yes, or IS 2062 E250 is used as an Indian equivalent.
Do you supply S355 to the Middle East?
Yes, with full export documentation and CE marking.
Can I get MTC for both grades?
Yes, we provide Mill Test Certificates with every dispatch.
Where can I get A36 or S355 plates in Mumbai?
At Hindustan Steel Corporation – India’s leading structural steel supplier.
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