Chemical Composition and Mechanical Properties of ASTM A514 Grade F Steel
ASTM A514 Grade F is a quenched and tempered alloy steel with the following properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Yield Strength (min) | 100 ksi (690 MPa) |
| Tensile Strength | 110-130 ksi (760-895 MPa) |
| Elongation in 2″ (min) | 16% |
| Hardness | 235-293 HBW (for plates up to 0.75 inches) |
Chemical Composition:
| Element | Percentage |
|---|---|
| C | 0.10-0.20% |
| Mn | 0.60-1.00% |
| P | 0.035% max |
| S | 0.035% max |
| Si | 0.15-0.35% |
| Ni | 0.70-1.00% |
| Cr | 0.40-0.65% |
| Mo | 0.40-0.60% |
| V | 0.03-0.08% |
| Cu | 0.15-0.50% |
| B | 0.001-0.005% |
Applications and Uses in Heavy Equipment and Construction
ASTM A514 Grade F steel is commonly used in:
- Transport trailers
- Construction equipment
- Crane booms
- Mobile aerial work platforms
- Agricultural equipment
- Heavy vehicle frames and chassis
- Welded bridge structural members
Manufacturing Process and Available Dimensions
ASTM A514 Grade F is produced through quenching and tempering processes. Available dimensions include:
| Thickness (in/mm) | Width (in/mm) | Length (in/mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.185 – 2.50 | 60 – 131.9 | 73 – 590 |
| 4.70 – 63.5 | 1500 – 3350 | 1900 – 15000 |
Welding and Fabrication Considerations
ASTM A514 Grade F has good weldability but requires careful attention to welding procedures. Proper preheat and interpass temperatures should be maintained to prevent cracking. Filler metals should be selected to match the strength of the base metal.
Comparison of Grade F with Other A514 Grades
| Grade | Thickness Range (in) | Yield Strength (min ksi) |
|---|---|---|
| F | 0.185 – 2.50 | 100 |
| B | 0.188 – 1.250 | 100 |
| E | 0.185 – 6.00 | 100 (up to 2.5″), 90 (2.5-6″) |
| H | 1.251 – 2.00 | 100 |
Cost-Effectiveness and Performance Benefits
While ASTM A514 Grade F has a higher initial cost, its high strength allows for thinner sections and reduced overall weight in structures. This can lead to cost savings in material usage, transportation, and installation, particularly in large-scale projects.
