SteelWhat is A36 steel and what is it used for? General-purpose structural plate
A36 steel is general-purpose structural plate. In this guide we explain what A36 steel is, its composition, its properties, what it is used for and the sizes we stock.
What is A36 steel?
General-purpose structural carbon steel (ASTM A36), with a nominal minimum yield strength of 250 MPa. It offers a balanced combination of strength, ductility, formability, and excellent weldability; it is supplied hot rolled and is easily processed by cutting, drilling, bending, and welding. For steel structures, bases, supports, frames, and machinery components.
Chemical composition of A36 steel
This is the typical composition of A36 steel (ASTM A36 / K02600 / EN-DIN S235JR / JIS SS400 standard):
| Element | Contents | What for? |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.29 % max. | Adds strength; limited to preserve weldability |
| Manganese (Mn) | 1.20 % max. | Adds strength and hardenability |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.40 % max. | Deoxidizer |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.030 % max. | Impurity, kept low |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.030 % max. | Impurity, kept low |
A36 properties and weldability
A36 has a minimum yield strength of 250 MPa (36 ksi), hence its name. Its great virtue is balance: good strength, ductility and formability, with excellent weldability because its carbon content is low. It is hot rolled and is easily processed by cutting, drilling, bending and welding. It is the general-purpose structural steel par excellence.
What is it for? Applications of A36
A36 steel is mainly used in:
- Steel structures
- Base plates
- Machinery frames
- Industrial supports
- Trailers and flatbeds
- Bridges and walkways
- Hoppers and containers
- Non-pressurized tanks
- Metalworking fabrication
Forms and sizes we carry
At NAT MAC we stock A36 steel in these forms and sizes:
| Package size | Sizes |
|---|---|
| Plates | 3/16" – 6" (4.76 – 152 mm) |
| Flat bars | Made to length |
If you need a particular size, tell us which one and we will gladly source it for you.
A36 equivalents and standards
A36 steel is also identified by these standards: ASTM A36 / K02600 / EN-DIN S235JR / JIS SS400. You can see how to read them in our article on steel standards.
Theoretical weight of A36 steel
To estimate freight, handling or costs, this is the reference theoretical weight per size, calculated with a density of 7.85 g/cm³ (the same one our calculator uses). Actual weight may vary due to manufacturing tolerances.
| Plate (thickness) | mm | kg per m² | 4 × 8 ft sheet (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3/16" | 4.8 | 37.4 | 111 |
| 1/4" | 6.3 | 49.8 | 148 |
| 5/16" | 7.9 | 62.3 | 185 |
| 3/8" | 9.5 | 74.8 | 222 |
| 1/2" | 12.7 | 99.7 | 296 |
| 5/8" | 15.9 | 125 | 370 |
| 3/4" | 19 | 150 | 445 |
| 1" | 25.4 | 199 | 593 |
| 1 1/2" | 38.1 | 299 | 889 |
| 2" | 50.8 | 399 | 1,186 |
| 3" | 76.2 | 598 | 1,778 |
Need another size? Get the exact weight with the Steel weight calculator: choose the grade, form and dimensions and get the result instantly.
In summary
- A36 is the general-purpose carbon structural steel (minimum yield 250 MPa)
- Excellent weldability and good ductility; easy to cut, bend, and weld
- Equivalents: ASTM A36 / EN S235JR / JIS SS400
- Ideal for structures, base plates, frames, supports and platforms
- We carry it in plates, flat bars, cut to size
Frequently asked questions about A36 steel
Why is it called A36 steel?
Because of its minimum yield strength of 36 ksi (250 MPa), defined in the ASTM A36 standard.
What is the equivalent of A36 steel?
It is S235JR in the European standard, SS400 in JIS, and its UNS number is K02600.
Can A36 steel be welded?
Yes. It has excellent weldability because of its low carbon content, and it is easy to cut, drill and bend.
How much does an A36 steel plate weigh?
It weighs 7.85 kg per square meter for every millimeter of thickness. A 1/4" plate weighs about 49.8 kg/m²; for reference, a 4 × 8 ft sheet (1.22 × 2.44 m) of 1/4" weighs about 148 kg.
What sizes of A36 steel do you carry?
Plate from 3/16" to 6" (4.76 to 152 mm) thick and flat bar cut to size.
Why buy your A36 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 A36 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.
