SteelWhat is A285 steel and what is it used for? Pressure vessel plate
A285 steel is pressure vessel plate. In this guide we explain what A285 steel is, its composition, its properties, what it is used for and the sizes we stock.
What is A285 steel?
Low to intermediate strength carbon steel plate (ASTM A285 / A285M), for welded pressure vessels. Available in different grades; offers good ductility, weldability, and formability, and is supplied hot rolled. For low-pressure vessels, welded tanks, cylindrical shells, heads, jackets, and process equipment.
Chemical composition of A285 steel
This is the typical composition of A285 steel (ASTM/ASME A285 / SA-285 Gr. C standard):
| Element | Contents | What for? |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.28 % max. | Adds strength; limited to preserve weldability |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.90 % max. | Adds strength and hardenability |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.035 % max. | Impurity, kept low |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.035 % max. | Impurity, kept low |
A285 grades and properties
A285 is a low-to-intermediate strength plate designed for low-pressure welded pressure vessels. It comes in Grades A, B and C (C is the highest strength). It offers good ductility, weldability and formability for rolling and forming cylindrical shells. Under the ASME code it is designated SA-285.
What is it for? Applications of A285
A285 steel is mainly used in:
- Welded pressure vessels
- Storage tanks
- Cylindrical bodies
- Vessel covers
- Metal enclosures
- Process separators
- Process equipment
- Welded components
- Light-duty tanks
Forms and sizes we carry
At NAT MAC we stock A285 steel in these forms and sizes:
| Package size | Sizes |
|---|---|
| Plates | 3/16" – 2" (4.76 – 51 mm) |
| Flat bars | Made to length |
If you need a particular size, tell us which one and we will gladly source it for you.
A285 equivalents and standards
A285 steel is also identified by these standards: ASTM/ASME A285 / SA-285 Gr. C. You can see how to read them in our article on steel standards.
In summary
- A285 is a plate for low-pressure welded pressure vessels (ASME SA-285)
- Good ductility, weldability and formability for rolling cylindrical shells
- For welded tanks, shells, heads, enclosures and process equipment
- We carry it in plates, flat bars, cut to size
Why buy your A285 steel at NAT MAC?
We have more than 54 years of experience as an industrial supplier and ISO 9001 certified quality. We carry quality structural plate and help you choose the right grade for your project.
- Quality A285 steel plate, with backing and traceability
- Material cut to the size you need
- Technical advice on choosing the right structural steel
- Wide range of structural plate in stock
- On-time deliveries and competitive prices
Tell us what you will make and in what sizes, and we'll recommend the right grade and form. Request your free quote.
Sources: data sheet from our NAT MAC catalog (composition, sizes and applications) and the corresponding ASTM standards. Values are for reference and may vary by grade, standard and heat.
