S355K2 - 1.0596

S355K2 is a high-tensile, low-carbon structural steel typically specified for demanding structural applications.

The designation follows the EN 10025-2 standard, where "S" stands for structural steel, and "355" denotes the minimum yield strength of 355 MPa. The "K2" indicates enhanced impact resistance. It passes Charpy V-notch tests with a minimum energy absorption of 40 Joules at -20°C, ensuring resilience in sub-zero environments.

This grade is characterized by its good weldability and cold-forming capabilities, making it suitable for various industrial applications including construction, engineering, and transportation sectors. Structural elements such as bridges, cranes, and railway components are typical uses given S355K2’s balance of strength and flexibility.

Chemically, this steel comprises low levels of carbon combined with elements like manganese and silicon, which contribute to its mechanical stability and processing characteristics. It lacks elements like chromium and nickel, thus requiring surface treatment for use in corrosive environments to prevent rust.

Mechanically, its properties can vary depending on thickness. For most applications involving moderate thickness, it offers a tensile strength range between 450-680 MPa and elongation capacities that support substantial load bearing before rupture, providing both strength and ductility.

Mechanical Properties

Chemical Properties

Applications

In construction, S355K2 is primarily used for building structures and infrastructure such as highway bridges and transmission towers. Its strength makes it ideal for supporting substantial loads, while its weldability facilitates efficient assembly and construction processes. Moreover, this steel is employed in the construction of oil and gas platforms, where strength and resilience against conditions on-site are critical.

The transport industry extensively utilizes S355K2 for manufacturing freight cars, railway wagons, dump trucks, trailers, bulldozers, and excavators. These applications benefit from the steel's high strength, which can withstand heavy weights and mechanical stress.

S355K2 is also used in shipbuilding, for components that must endure harsh environments without significantly adding to the vessel's weight. Additionally, the steel's application extends to power plants and various industrial machineries including fans, pumps, hydraulic systems, and palm oil equipment.

While S355K2 provides a strong solution across these industries, it may not be ideal for environments requiring high corrosion resistance, such as marine and highly acidic or humid atmospheres, without additional surface treatment or painting. This limitation should be considered in the planning stage to ensure long-term performance and durability.