Steel and other metals ASTM and ASME standards are generally similar, if not identical. It is important to note, however, that there can be minor differences in the criteria used by the various organizations. Technically, only ASTM A36 and ASME SA36 exist; ASTM SA36 does not exist.
The ASME produces pressure application design norms and standards for forming, bolting, and welding structural steel in bridges and buildings. The ASTM A36 specifies carbon steel forms, plates, and bars for use in riveted, bolted or welded building construction.
Standards published by ASME are usually based on those published by ASTM, except the standard numbers are prefixed with the letters ‘SA‘ instead of ‘A‘ as they are in ASTM standards. The distinction between an A and a SA designation is related to a material’s ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code endorsement.
When a material is delivered to a SA material specification, it satisfies the standards of ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section II, and can be utilized in code-fabricated components. In addition, materials with designations meet the weaker ASTM A36 standards – they are typically similar or the same, but have not yet been accepted by ASME for use in boilers or pressure vessels.
It offers stiffness and strength to projects, and it is less expensive than other steel plate grades, making it a common structural steel plate used in a wide range of applications and industries. A36 is often bolted and riveted in a variety of structural applications. All welding procedures, including shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, and oxyacetylene welding, work well with it.
Because of its strength, the ASTM A36 Steel Plates is one of the most commonly utilized in construction. It is utilized in the construction of structures and bridges but is not intended for use as a wire. SA36 steel may be used for all of the same applications as A36 steel, as well as in the building of various pressure containers.
A36 and SA36 steel plates from Champak Steel & Engg. Co. are popular choices in construction due to their strength and durability. These metals are highly versatile and come in various forms, thicknesses, widths, and lengths. They are widely used in a multitude of applications due to their value and reliability.
| Item Short Description | Grade | Product Short Description (Thickness) | Width | Length |
| Coil | SA36 | 3/16″ – 1/2″ | 84″, 96″ | Any |
| Cut to Length | SA36 | 3/16″ – 1/2″ | 84″ – 96″ | Any |
| Hot Rolled (Strip Mill) | A36 / SA36 | 3/16″, 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″ | 48″, 60″, 72″ | Any |
| Discrete (Mill Rolled) | A36 / SA36 | 3/16″, 1/4″, 5/16 | 84″ – 120″ | 240″ – 480″ |
| Discrete (Mill Rolled) | A36 / SA36 | 3/8″ – 12″* | 72″ – 144″ | 240″ – 480″ |
Distinguishing A36 and SA36 Steel Grades
A36 and SA36 are similar steel grades as defined by ASTM and ASME. While their specifications are almost identical, the difference lies in their endorsement for specific applications.
ASTM A36 covers carbon steel for structural use in construction, bridges, and general purposes. On the other hand, ASME SA36 is endorsed for pressure vessel applications, meeting the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code standards.
The key distinction between A and SA designations is the ASME endorsement. Materials designated with SA meet stricter ASME standards and are suitable for pressure vessel fabrication. A36, while similar, lacks this endorsement.
In summary, SA36 can substitute for A36 in any project, but A36 may need to meet ASME standards required for pressure vessel applications.
Applications
ASTM A36 and ASME SA36 are both versatile steel grades with various applications:
ASTM A36:
- Building frames
- Bridges
- Construction Equipment
- Machinery
- Truck parts
- Crane booms
- Transmission towers
- Freight cars
ASME SA36:
- All the above
- Additionally, boiler and pressure vessels
In short, both A36 and SA36 are commonly used in construction, while SA36 also extends to boiler and pressure vessel applications.