The defense industry requires materials with certain characteristics to help equipment function properly and continue to operate. For steel, its use in the industry stems from its strength, corrosion and heat resistance, and durability, which can be used in tanks, military aircraft, and naval ships. There are many different types of steel to choose from, such as stainless steel, bulletproof steel and high-strength low-alloy steel. However, the steel we want to focus on today is S235 steel. This grade of low-carbon structural steel has a variety of applications in the defense industry, from structural components in military buildings to armored personnel carriers and hulls. Join us for a detailed look at S235 steel, its changes and why it should be the steel of choice for defense applications.
What is S235 steel?
S235 is a low carbon structural steel with a maximum content of 0.22% (weight). Its weldability, formability and strength are all attributed to its reduced carbon content. This steel also has other mechanical properties, including:
The tensile strength is between 360 and 510 MPa
The hardness is 100-154 Brinell hardness
Good impact resistance.
The characteristics of S235 steel depend on its composition. Therefore, the production of steel must be strictly controlled to establish the correct properties. The following are the elements used in the formation of S235 steel and their maximum percentages:
Carbon (<0.22%) : ensures that the steel can be welded without special precautions.
Silicon (<0.5%) : Support galvanizing, ensuring that the steel can provide corrosion protection.
Manganese (<1.60%) : increases the hardenability and strength of steel.
Sulfur (<0.040%) : The use of trace amounts of sulfur can enhance welding penetration and machinability.
Phosphorus (<0.040%) : The application of phosphorus can improve the tensile strength and yield strength of steel.
S235 steel category
There are many variants of S235 steel, which have different properties and chemical composition variations. These include:
S235JR: S235JR is a commonly used steel known for its weldability, workability, durability and wear resistance. Its “JR” suffix indicates that it has a minimum impact energy of 27 joules and has been shock tested at 20°C. The S235JR is often used in building structures, oil and gas platforms, and transportation components.
S235J0: This type of steel has similarities to S235JR. But the main difference between them is that the impact test of the S235J0 is carried out at 0°C. It has good machinability, formability and sufficient tensile strength. The S235J0 can be used in metal structures and general engineering components.
S235JRC: The S235JRC stands out for its suitability for cold forming processes. It has good weldability and does not require preheating. Transmission towers and Bridges are examples of where the S235JRC can be used.
When considering which steel to choose, it is necessary to consider factors such as welding requirements, manufacturing technology and operating temperature.
Reasons for the use of S235 steel in the defense industry
weldability
S235 steels (such as S235JR) have good weldability due to reduced carbon content. This low carbon level reduces the likelihood of the structure becoming brittle during welding. The S235JR can even be welded to various structural steels without heat treatment. This makes it very useful for the defense industry, as it can be used to produce complex structures and machinery that require various grades of steel.
Impact resistance
The impact resistance of S235 steel is another useful attribute that can be applied to the defense industry. Not only do these steels have different impact resistance, which means that the steel can be selected according to whether the material is suitable for its operating conditions, but this property provides protection for equipment and personnel. Impact resistance is an essential quality in the defense industry when protecting structures from shock or impact. S235 steel is required for various defense equipment because of its impact resistance. Naval ships, for example, need to use this steel inside their hulls to mitigate the effects of waves or explosions.
Corrosion resistance
Galvanizing helps S235 steel provide corrosion resistance. When used in the defense industry, steel will be protected by a coating. Therefore, it will be able to extend the service life of structures and equipment. The defense industry can use galvanized S235 steel. It can provide protection against Marine corrosion (which can occur in salt-dense areas) and stress corrosion cracking (which can occur in load-bearing structures).
intensity
Since S235 steel has a yield strength of 235 MPa and a tensile strength of 360-510 MPa, it can provide both strong load bearing capacity associated with structural components and stress resistance. Each of these properties means that S235 steel can be used as a structural component. Examples of applications of this steel include Bridges and buildings. It is also used in military vehicles that need protection against explosive devices.
Jinyou Metal can help you get S235 steel
The properties of S235 steels make them very useful in the defense industry. These steels are already used in many defense applications. They can be used in armored vehicles, military bases, aerospace components and naval ships. Try these steels for yourself and see the benefits they offer. Visit our S235 Steel products page to see if it’s right for you.
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