This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: A709/A709M − 17

Standard Specification for

Structural Steel for Bridges1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A709/A709M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope* 1.4 For structural products to be used as tension components

1.1 This specification covers carbon and high-strength low- requiring notch toughness testing, standardized requirements
alloy steel structural shapes, plates, and bars, quenched and are provided in this standard, and they are based upon
tempered alloy steel, and stainless steel for structural plates American Association of State Highway and Transportation
intended for use in bridges. Eight grades are available in four Officials (AASHTO) requirements for both fracture critical and
yield strength levels as follows: non-fracture critical members.
Grade U.S. [SI] Yield Strength, ksi [MPa] 1.5 Supplementary requirements are available but shall
36 [250] 36 [250] apply only if specified in the purchase order.
50 [345] 50 [345]
50S [345S] 50 [345] 1.6 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
50W [345W] 50 [345] are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
HPS 50W [HPS 345W] 50 [345]
50CR [345CR] 50 [345] each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
HPS 70W [HPS 485W] 70 [485] system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
HPS 100W [HPS 690W] 100 [690] values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
1.1.1 Grades 36 [250], 50 [345], 50S [345S], 50W [345W], with the standard.
and 50CR [345CR] are also included in Specifications A36/ 1.7 For structural products produced from coil and fur-
A36M, A572/A572M, A992/A992M, A588/A588M, and nished without heat treatment or with stress relieving only, the
A1010/A1010M (UNS S41003), respectively. When the re- additional requirements, including additional testing require-
quirements of Table 10 or Table 11 or the supplementary ments and the reporting of additional test results, of Specifi-
requirements of this specification are specified, they exceed the cation A6/A6M apply.
requirements of Specifications A36/A36M, A572/A572M,
A992/A992M, A588/A588M, and A1010/A1010M (UNS 1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
S41003). Product availability is shown in Table 1. dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
1.1.2 Grades 50W [345W], 50CR [345CR], HPS 50W [HPS ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
345W], HPS 70W [HPS 485W], and HPS 100W [HPS 690W] Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
have enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance (see 13.1.2). mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Product availability is shown in Table 1. Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.2 Grade HPS 70W [HPS 485W] or HPS 100W [HPS 2. Referenced Documents
690W] shall not be substituted for Grades 36 [250], 50 [345], 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
50S [345S], 50W [345W], or HPS 50W [HPS 345W]. Grade A6/A6M Specification for General Requirements for Rolled
50W [345W], or HPS 50W [HPS 345W] shall not be substi- Structural Steel Bars, Plates, Shapes, and Sheet Piling
tuted for Grades 36 [250], 50 [345] or 50S [345S] without A36/A36M Specification for Carbon Structural Steel
agreement between the purchaser and the supplier. A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing
1.3 When the steel is to be welded, it is presupposed that a of Steel Products
welding procedure suitable for the grade of steel and intended A572/A572M Specification for High-Strength Low-Alloy
use or service will be utilized. See Appendix X3 of Specifica- Columbium-Vanadium Structural Steel
tion A6/A6M for information on weldability. A588/A588M Specification for High-Strength Low-Alloy
Structural Steel, up to 50 ksi [345 MPa] Minimum Yield
Point, with Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance
1
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel,
Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
2
A01.02 on Structural Steel for Bridges, Buildings, Rolling Stock and Ships. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2017. Published September 2017. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1974. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as A709/A709M – 16a. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/A0709_A0709M-17. the ASTM website.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 A709/A709M − 17
TABLE 1 Tensile and Hardness RequirementsA
NOTE 1—Where “. . .” appears in this table, there is no requirement.
Minimum Elongation, %
Structural Shape Yield Point or Reduction
Plate Thickness, Tensile Strength, ksi Plates and BarsC, E
ShapesE
Grade
in. [mm]
Flange or Leg Yield Strength,B [MPa] of AreaC,D
Thickness, in. [mm] ksi [MPa] 8 in. or 2 in. or 50 8 in. or 2 in. or 50 min, %
200 mm mm 200 mm mm
36 [250] to 4 [100], incl to 3 in. [75 mm], incl 36 [250] min 58–80 [400–550] 20 23 20 21 ...
over 3 in. [75 mm] 36 [250] min 58 [400] min ... ... 20 19 ...

50 [345] to 4 [100], incl all 50 [345] min 65 [450] min 18 21 18 21F ...

G
50S [345S] all 50–65 65 [450]H min ... ... 18 21 ...
[345–450]H,I

50W [345W] to 4 [100], incl all 50 [345] min 70 [485] min 18 21 18 21J ...
and
HPS 50W
[HPS 345W]

G
50CR [345CR] to 2 [50], incl 50 [345] min 70 [485] min 18 21 ... ... ...

G B K
HPS 70W to 4 [100], incl 70 [485] min 85–110 [585–760] ... 19 ... ... ...
[HPS 485 W]

G
HPS 100W to 21⁄2 [65], incl 100 [690] minB 110–130 [760–895] ... 18K ... ... L

[HPS 690W]
G
over 21⁄2 to 4 90 [620] minB 100–130 [690–895] ... 16K ... ... L

[65 to 100], inclM

A
See specimen orientation and preparation subsection in the Tension Tests section of Specification A6/A6M.
B
Measured at 0.2 % offset or 0.5 % extension under load as described in Section 13 of Test Methods A370.
C
Elongation and reduction of area not required to be determined for floor plates.
D
For plates wider than 24 in. [600 mm], the reduction of area requirement, where applicable, is reduced by five percentage points.
E
For plates wider than 24 in. [600 mm], the elongation requirement is reduced by two percentage points. See elongation requirement adjustments in the Tension Tests
section of Specification A6/A6M.
F
Elongation in 2 in. or 50 mm: 19 % for shapes with flange thickness over 3 in. [75 mm].
G
Not applicable.
H
The yield to tensile ratio shall be 0.87 or less for shapes that are tested from the web location; for all other shapes, the requirement is 0.85.
I
A maximum yield strength of 70 ksi [480 MPa] is permitted for structural shapes that are required to be tested from the web location.
J
For wide flange shapes with flange thickness over 3 in. [75 mm], elongation in 2 in. or 50 mm of 18 % minimum applies.
K
If measured on the Fig. 3 (Test Methods A370) 11⁄2-in. [40–mm] wide specimen, the elongation is determined in a 2-in. or 50-mm gage length that includes the fracture
and shows the greatest elongation.
L
40 % minimum applies if measured on the Fig 3 (Test Methods A370) 11⁄2-in. [40-mm] wide specimen; 50 % minimum applies if measured on the Fig. 4 (Test Methods
A370) 1⁄2-in. [12.5-mm] round specimen.
M
Not applicable to Fracture Critical Tension Components (see Table 11).

TABLE 2 Grade 36 [250] Chemical Requirements (Heat Analysis)

NOTE 1—Where “. . .” appears in this table there is no requirement. The heat analysis for manganese shall be determined and reported as described
in the Heat Analysis section of Specification A6/A6M.
Plates >15 in. [380 mm] WidthB Bars, Plates #15 in. [380 mm] WidthB
Product Thickness, Over 11⁄2 to 4
ShapesA All To 3⁄4 [20], Over 3⁄4 to 11⁄2 Over 11⁄2 to 21⁄2 Over 21⁄2 to 4 [65 Over 3⁄4 to 11⁄2
in. [mm] To 3⁄4 [20], incl [40 to 100],
incl [20 to 40], incl [40 to 65], incl to 100], incl [20 to 40], incl
incl
Carbon, max, % 0.26 0.25 0.25 0.26 0.27 0.26 0.27 0.28
Manganese, % ... ... 0.80–1.20 0.80–1.20 0.85–1.20 ... 0.60–0.90 0.60–0.90
Phosphorus, max, % 0.04 0.030 0.030 0.030 0.030 0.04 0.04 0.04
Sulfur, max, % 0.05 0.030 0.030 0.030 0.030 0.05 0.05 0.05
Silicon, % 0.40 max 0.40 max 0.40 max 0.15–0.40 0.15–0.40 0.40 max 0.40 max 0.40 max
Copper, min, % when 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
copper steel is specified
A
Manganese content of 0.85 to 1.35 % and silicon content of 0.15 to 0.40 % is required for shapes with flange thickness over 3 in. [75 mm].
B
For each reduction of 0.01 % below the specified carbon maximum, an increase of 0.06 % manganese above the specified maximum will be permitted up to a maximum
of 1.35 %.

A673/A673M Specification for Sampling Procedure for Im- G101 Guide for Estimating the Atmospheric Corrosion Re-
pact Testing of Structural Steel sistance of Low-Alloy Steels
A992/A992M Specification for Structural Steel Shapes
A1010/A1010M Specification for Higher-Strength Marten-
sitic Stainless Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip

2
 A709/A709M − 17
TABLE 3 Grade 50 [345] Chemical RequirementsA (Heat Analysis)
SiliconD
Plates to 11⁄2-in.
[40-mm] Thick,
Maximum Diameter, Plates Over 11⁄2-in.
Shapes with flange Columbium
Thickness, or Distance Carbon, Manganese,B Phosphorus,C Phosphorus,C [40-mm] Thick and
or leg thickness to (Niobium),E
Between Parallel Faces, max, % max, % max, % max, % Shapes with Vanadium,
3 in. [75 mm]
in. [mm] flange thickness and Nitrogen
inclusive, Sheet
over 3 in. [75 mm],
Piling, Bars, Zees,
%
and Rolled Tees,
max, %
4 [100] 0.23 1.35 0.030 0.030 0.40 0.15–0.40 See Table 4
A
Copper when specified shall have a minimum content of 0.20 % by heat analysis (0.18 % by product analysis).
B
Manganese, minimum by heat analysis of 0.80 % (0.75 % by product analysis) shall be required for all plates over 3⁄8 in. [10 mm] in thickness; a minimum of 0.50 %
(0.45 % by product analysis) shall be required for plates 3⁄8 in. [10 mm] and less in thickness, and for all other products. The manganese to carbon ratio shall not be less
than 2 to 1. For each reduction of 0.01 percentage point below the specified carbon maximum, an increase of 0.06 percentage point manganese above the specified
maximum is permitted, up to a maximum of 1.60 %.
C
A maximum phosphorus content of 0.04 % and a maximum sulfur content of 0.05 % are permitted for the following materials:
· Structural shapes
· Bars
· Plates with widths up to and including 15 in. [380 mm]
D
Silicon content in excess of 0.40 % by heat analysis must be negotiated.
E
Columbium and niobium are interchangeable names for the same element.

TABLE 4 Grade 50 [345] Alloy Content TABLE 6 Grade 50W [345 W] Chemical Requirements (Heat
TypeA Elements Heat Analysis, % Analysis)
1 Columbium (niobium)B 0.005–0.05C NOTE 1—Types A and B are equivalent to Specification A588/A588M,
D
Grades A and B, respectively.
2 Vanadium 0.01–0.15
Composition, %A
B C
Element
3 Columbium (niobium) 0.005–0.05 Type A Type B
Vanadium 0.01–0.15D CarbonB 0.19 max 0.20 max
Columbium (niobium)B 0.02–0.15E ManganeseB 0.80–1.25 0.75–1.35
plus vanadium
PhosphorusC 0.030 max 0.030 max
A
Alloy content shall be in accordance with Type 1, 2, or 3 and the contents of the SulfurC 0.030 max 0.030 max
applicable elements shall be reported on the test report. Silicon 0.30–0.65 0.15–0.50
B
Columbium and niobium are interchangeable names for the same element. Nickel 0.40 max 0.50 max
C
Product analysis limits = 0.004 to 0.06 %. Chromium 0.40–0.65 0.40–0.70
D
Product analysis limits = 0.005 to 0.17 %. Copper 0.25–0.40 0.20–0.40
E
Product analysis limits = 0.01 to 0.16 %. Vanadium 0.02–0.10 0.01–0.10
A
Weldability data for these types have been qualified by FHWA for use in bridge
construction.
B
TABLE 5 Grade 50CR [345CR] Chemical Requirements (Heat For each reduction of 0.01 percentage point below the specified maximum for
Analysis) carbon, an increase of 0.06 percentage point above the specified maximum for
manganese is permitted, up to a maximum of 1.50 %.
C
NOTE 1—Where “. . .” appears in this table there is no requirement. A maximum phosphorus content of 0.04 % and a maximum sulfur content of 0.05
% are permitted for the following materials:
Element Composition, % · Structural shapes
Carbon 0.030 max · Bars
Manganese 1.50 max · Plates with widths up to and including 15 in. [380 mm]
Phosphorus 0.040 max
Sulfur 0.010 max
Silicon 1.00 max
Nickel 1.50 max
Chromium 10.5 – 12.5
Molybdenum ... 3.1.2 main load-carrying member—a steel member de-
Nitrogen 0.030 max signed to carry primary design loads, including dead, live,
impact, and other loads.
3.1.3 non-fracture critical member—a main load-carrying
member whose failure would not be expected to cause collapse
of a structure or bridge with multiple, redundant load paths.
3. Terminology 3.1.4 non-tension component—a steel member that is not in
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: tension under any design loading.
3.1.1 fracture critical member—a main load-carrying ten- 3.1.5 secondary member—a steel member used for aligning
sion member or tension component of a bending member and bracing of main load-carrying members, or for attaching
whose failure would be expected to cause collapse of a utilities, signs, or other items to them, but not to directly
structure or bridge without multiple, redundant load paths. support primary design loads

3
 A709/A709M − 17
TABLE 7 Grades HPS 50W [HPS 345W] and HPS 70W 4.2 Impact testing temperature zone (see Table 9).
[HPS 485 W], and HPS 100W [HPS 690W] Chemical Requirements
(Heat Analysis) 5. General Requirements for Delivery
NOTE 1—Where “. . .” appears in this table, there is no requirement. 5.1 Structural products furnished under this specification
Composition, % shall conform to the requirements of the current edition of
Grades Specification A6/A6M, for the specific structural product
Element HPS 50W Grade ordered, unless a conflict exists in which case this specification
[HPS 345W], HPS 100W
HPS 70W [HPS 690W]
shall prevail.
[HPS 485W] 5.2 Coils are excluded from qualification to this specifica-
Carbon 0.11 max 0.08 max tion until they are processed into a finished structural product.
Manganese
2.5 in. [65 mm] and under 1.10–1.35 0.95–1.50 Structural products produced from coil means structural prod-
Over 2.5 in. [65 mm] 1.10–1.50 0.95–1.50 ucts that have been cut to individual lengths from a coil. The
Phosphorus 0.020 max 0.015 max processor directly controls, or is responsible for, the operations
SulfurA 0.006 max 0.006 max
Silicon 0.30–0.50 0.15–0.35 involved in the processing of a coil into a finished structural
Copper 0.25–0.40 0.90–1.20 product. Such operations include decoiling, leveling or
Nickel 0.25–0.40 0.65–0.90 straightening, hot-forming or cold-forming (if applicable),
Chromium 0.45–0.70 0.40–0.65
Molybdenum 0.02–0.08 0.40–0.65 cutting to length, testing, inspection, conditioning, heat treat-
Vanadium 0.04–0.08 0.04–0.08 ment (if applicable), packaging, marking, loading for shipment,
Columbium (niobium)B ... 0.01–0.03 and certification.
Aluminum 0.010–0.040 0.020–0.050
Nitrogen 0.015 max 0.015 max NOTE 1—For structural products produced from coil and furnished
A
The steel shall be calcium treated for sulfide shape control. without heat treatment or with stress relieving only, two test results are to
B
Columbium and niobium are interchangeable names for the same element. be reported for each qualifying coil. Additional requirements regarding
structural products produced from coil are described in Specification
A6/A6M.
TABLE 8 Grade 50S [345S] Chemical Requirements 6. Materials and Manufacture
(Heat Analysis)
Element Composition, %
6.1 For all Grades, the steel shall be killed.
Carbon, max 0.23 6.2 For Grades 50W [345W], HPS 50W [HPS 345W], and
Manganese 0.50 to 1.60A HPS 70W [HPS 485W], the steel shall be made to fine grain
Silicon, max 0.40
Vanadium, max 0.15B practice.
Columbium (niobium),C max 0.05B 6.3 For Grade 50S [345S], the steelmaking practice used
Phosphorus, max 0.035
Sulfur, max 0.045 shall be one that produces steel having a nitrogen content not
Copper, max 0.60 greater than 0.015 % and includes the addition of one or more
Nickel, max 0.45
Chromium, max 0.35
nitrogen-binding elements, or one that produces steel having a
Molybdenum, max 0.15 nitrogen content of not greater than 0.012 % (with or without
A
Provided that the ratio of manganese to sulfur is not less than 20 to 1, the the addition of nitrogen-binding elements). The nitrogen con-
minimum limit for manganese for shapes with flange or leg thickness not tent need not be reported, regardless of which steelmaking
exceeding 1 in. [25 mm] shall be 0.30 %. practice was used.
B
The sum of columbium (niobium) and vanadium shall not exceed 0.15 %.
C
Columbium and niobium are interchangeable names for the same element. 6.4 For Grades HPS 50W [HPS 345W], HPS 70W [HPS
485W], and HPS 100W [HPS 690W], the steel shall be made
using a low-hydrogen practice, such as vacuum degassing
TABLE 9 Relationship Between Impact Testing Temperature during steel making; controlled soaking of the ingots, slabs;
Zones and Minimum Service Temperature
controlled slow cooling of the ingots, slabs, or plates, or a
Zone Minimum Service Temperature, °F [°C]
combination thereof.
1 0 [−18]
2 below 0 to −30 [−18 to −34] 6.5 For Grade HPS 100W [HPS 690W], the requirements
3 below −30 to −60 [−34 to −51] for fine austenitic grain size in Specification A6/A6M shall be
met.
6.6 Grades HPS 50W [HPS 345W] and HPS 70W [HPS
3.1.6 tension component—a part or element of a fracture
485W] shall be furnished in one of the following conditions:
critical or non-fracture critical member that is in tension under
as-rolled, control-rolled, thermo-mechanical control processed
various design loadings.
(TMCP) with or without accelerated cooling, or quenched and
4. Ordering Requirements tempered.
4.1 In addition to the items listed in the ordering informa- 6.7 Grade 50CR [345CR] shall be furnished normalized and
tion section of Specification A6/A6M, the following items tempered or quenched and tempered.
should be considered if applicable: 6.8 For fracture critical base material only, weld repair of
4.1.1 Type of component (tension or non-tension, fracture the base metal by the material manufacturer or supplier is not
critical or non-fracture critical) (see Section 10). permitted

4
 A709/A709M − 17
TABLE 10 Non-Fracture Critical Tension Component Impact Test Requirements
Thickness, Minimum Average Energy, ft·lbf [J]
Grade
in. [mm] Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3
36T [250T]A to 4 [100] incl 15 [20] at 70°F [21°C] 15 [20] at 40°F [4°C] 15 [20] at 10°F [−12°C]

50T [345T]A, B , to 2 [50] incl 15 [20] at 70°F [21°C] 15 [20] at 40°F [4°C] 15 [20] at 10°F [−12°C]
50ST [345ST]A, B , over 2 to 4 [50 to 100] incl 20 [27] at 70°F [21°C] 20 [27] at 40°F [4°C] 20 [27] at 10°F [−12°C]
50WT [345WT]A, B

50CRT [345CRT]A, B to 2 [50] incl 15 [20] at 70°F [21°C] 15 [20] at 40°F [4°C] 15 [20] at 10°F [–12°C]

HPS 50WT to 4 [100] incl 20 [27] at 10°F [–12°C] 20 [27] at 10°F [–12°C] 20 [27] at 10°F [–12°C]
[HPS 345WT]A, B

HPS 70WT to 4 [100] incl 25 [34] at –10°F [–23°C] 25 [34] at –10°F [–23°C] 25 [34] at –10°F [–23°C]
[HPS 485WT]C, D

HPS 100WT to 21⁄2 [65] incl 25 [34] at –30°F [−34°C] 25 [34] at –30°F [−34°C] 25 [34] at –30°F [−34°C]
[HPS 690WT]C over 21⁄2 to 4 [65 to 100] incl 35 [48] at –30°F [–34°C] 35 [48] at –30°F [–34°C] 35 [48] at –30°F [–34°C]
A
The CVN-impact testing shall be at “H” frequency in accordance with Specification A673/A673M.
B
If the yield point of the structural product exceeds 65 ksi [450 MPa], the testing temperature for the minimum average energy required shall be reduced by 15°F [8°C]
for each increment or fraction of 10 ksi [70 MPa] above 65 ksi [450 MPa]. The yield point is the value given in the test report. See Footnote E.E
C
The CVN-impact testing shall be at “P” frequency in accordance with Specification A673/A673M.
D
If the yield strength of the structural product exceeds 85 ksi [585 MPa], the testing temperature for the minimum average energy required shall be reduced by 15°F [8°C]
for each increment or fraction of 10 ksi [70 MPa] above 85 ksi [585 MPa]. The yield strength is the value given in the test report. See Table Footnote F.F
E
For example, if the yield point or yield strength is more than 65 ksi [450 MPa] but not more than 75 ksi [520 MPa], the test temperature reduction is 15°F [8°C]. If the
yield point or yield strength is more than 75 ksi [520 MPa] but not more than 85 ksi [585 MPa], the test temperature reduction is 30°F [17°C].
F
For example, if the yield point or yield strength is more than 85 ksi [585 MPa] but not more than 95 ksi [655 MPa], the test temperature reduction is 15°F [8°C]. If the
yield point or yield strength is more than 95 ksi [655 MPa] but not more than 105 ksi [725 MPa], the test temperature reduction is 30°F [17°C].

TABLE 11 Fracture Critical Tension Component Impact Test Requirements

Thickness, Minimum Test Value Minimum Average Energy,A ft·lbf [J]
Grade
in. [mm] Energy,A ft-lbf [J] Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3
36F [250F] to 4 [100], incl 20 [27] 25 [34] at 70°F [21°C] 25 [34] at 40°F [4°C] 25 [34] at 10°F [−12°C]

50F [345F]B , to 2 [50], incl 20 [27] 25 [34] at 70°F [21°C] 25 [34] at 40°F [4°C] 25 [34] at 10°F [−12°C]
50SF [345SF]B , over 2 to 4 [50 to 100], incl 24 [33] 30 [41] at 70°F [21°C] 30 [41] at 40°F [4°C] 30 [41] at 10°F [−12°C]
50WF [345WF]B

50CRF [345CRF]B to 2 [50], incl 20 [27] 25 [34] at 70°F [21°C] 25 [34] at 40°F [4°C] 25 [34] at 10°F [–12°C]

HPS 50WF to 4 [100], incl 24 [33] 30 [41] at 10°F [–12°C] 30 [41] at 10°F [–12°C] 30 [41] at 10°F [−12°C]
[HPS 345WF]B

HPS 70WF to 4 [100], incl 28 [38] 35 [48] at –10°F [–23°C] 35 [48] at –10°F [−23°C] 35 [48] at −10°F [−23°C]
[HPS 485WF]C

HPS 100WF to 21⁄2 [65], incl 28 [38] 35 [48] at –30°F [−34°C] 35 [48] at –30°F [−34°C] 35 [48] at –30°F [–34°C]
D
[HPS 690WF] over 21⁄2 to 4 [65 to 100], incl Not permitted Not permitted Not permitted
A
The CVN-impact testing shall be at “P” frequency in accordance with Specification A673/A673M except for plates, for which the sampling shall be as follows:
(1) As-rolled (including control-rolled and TMCP) plates shall be sampled at each end of each plate-as-rolled.
(2) Normalized plates shall be sampled at one end of each plate, as heat treated.
(3) Quenched and tempered plates shall be sampled at each end of each plate, as heat treated.
B
If the yield point of the structural product exceeds 65 ksi [450 MPa], the testing temperature for the minimum average energy and minimum test value energy required
shall be reduced by 15°F [8°C] for each increment or fraction of 10 ksi [70 MPa] above 65 ksi [450 MPa]. The yield point is the value given in the test report. See Table
Footnote E.E
C
If the yield strength of the structural product exceeds 85 ksi [585 MPa], the testing temperature for the minimum average energy and minimum test value energy required
shall be reduced by 15°F [8°C] for each increment or fraction of 10 ksi [70 MPa] above 85 ksi [585 MPa]. The yield strength is the value given in the test report. See Table
Footnote F.F
D
Not applicable.
E
For example, if the yield point or yield strength is more than 65 ksi [450 MPa] but not more than 75 ksi [520 MPa], the test temperature reduction is 15°F [8°C]. If the
yield point is more than 75 ksi [520 MPa] but not more than 85 ksi [585 MPa], the test temperature reduction is 30°F [17°C].
F
For example, if the yield point or yield strength is more than 85 ksi [585 MPa] but not more than 95 ksi [655 MPa], the test temperature reduction is 15°F [8°C]. If the
yield point is more than 95 ksi [655 MPa] but not more than 105 ksi [725 MPa], the test temperature reduction is 30°F [17°C].

7. Heat Treatment oil, and tempering it at not less than 1100°F [590°C]. The
7.1 For quenched and tempered Grades HPS 50W [HPS heat-treating temperatures shall be reported on the test certifi-
345W] and HPS 70W [HPS 485W], the heat treatment shall be cates.
performed by the manufacturer and shall consist of heating the 7.2 For Grade HPS 100W [HPS 690W], the heat treatment
steel to not less than 1650°F [900°C], quenching it in water or shall be performed by the manufacturer and shall consist of

5
 A709/A709M − 17
heating the steel to a temperature in the range from 1600 to 11. Test Specimens and Number of Tension Tests
1700°F [870 to 925°C], quenching it in water, and tempering it 11.1 For Grades 36 [250], 50 [345], and 50W [345W], and
at not less than 1050°F [565°C] for a time to be determined by non-quenched and tempered Grades 50CR [345CR], HPS 50W
the manufacturer. The heat-treating temperatures shall be [HPS 345W] and HPS 70W [HPS 485W], location and
reported on the test certificates. condition, number of tests, and preparation of test specimens
7.3 For Grade 50CR [345CR], the heat treatment shall be shall meet the requirements of Specification A6/A6M.
performed by the manufacturer and shall consist of heating the 11.2 The following requirements, which are in addition to
steel to a temperature in the range of 1600 to 1700°F [870 to those of Specification A6/A6M, shall apply only to Grade HPS
925°C], cooling in air or quenching in water, and tempering 100W [HPS 690W] and quenched and tempered Grades 50CR
between 1200 to 1400°F [650 to 760°C] for a time to be [345CR], HPS 50W [HPS 345W] and HPS 70W [HPS 485W].
determined by the manufacturer. The heat-treating tempera- 11.2.1 When possible, all test specimens shall be cut from
tures shall be reported on the test certificates. the plate in its heat-treated condition. If it is necessary to
prepare test specimens from separate pieces, all of these pieces
8. Chemical Requirements
shall be full thickness, and shall be similarly and simultane-
8.1 The heat analysis shall conform to the requirements for ously heat treated with the material. All such separate pieces
the specified grade, as given in Tables 2-8. shall be of such size that the prepared test specimens are free
8.2 For Grade 50S [345S], in addition to the elements listed of any variation in properties due to edge effects.
in Table 8, test reports shall include, for information, the 11.2.2 After final heat treatment of the plates, one tension
chemical analysis for tin. Where the amount of tin is less than test specimen shall be taken from a corner of each plate as heat
0.02 %, it shall be permissible for the analysis to be reported as treated.
<0.02 %. NOTE 2—The term “plate” identifies the “plate as heat treated.”
8.3 For Grade 50S [345S], the maximum permissible car-
12. Retests
bon equivalent value shall be 0.47 % for structural shapes with
flange thickness over 2 in. [50 mm], and 0.45 % for other 12.1 Grades 36 [250], 50 [345], 50S [345S], and 50W
structural shapes. The carbon equivalent shall be based on heat [345W], and non-quenched and tempered 50CR [345CR], HPS
analysis. The required chemical analysis as well as the carbon 50W [HPS 345W] and HPS 70W [HPS 485W] shall be retested
equivalent shall be reported. The carbon equivalent shall be in accordance with Specification A6/A6M.
calculated using the following formula: 12.2 The manufacturer may reheat treat quenched and
Mn ~ Cr1Mo1V ! ~ Ni1Cu! tempered plates that fail to meet the mechanical property
CE 5 C1 1 1 (1) requirements of this specification. All mechanical property
6 5 15
tests shall be repeated when the material is resubmitted for
9. Tensile Requirements inspection.
9.1 The material as represented by test specimens, except as 13. Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance
specified in 9.2, shall conform to the requirements for tensile
properties given in Table 1. 13.1 Steels meeting this specification provide three levels of
atmospheric corrosion resistance:
9.2 For Grade 36 [250], shapes less than 1 in.2 [645 mm2] in 13.1.1 Steel grades without suffix provide a level of atmo-
cross section and bars, other than flats, less than 1⁄2 in. [12.5 spheric corrosion resistance typical of carbon or alloy steel
mm] in thickness or diameter need not be subjected to tension without copper.
tests by the manufacturer. 13.1.2 The steel for Grades 50W [345W], HPS 50W [HPS
345W], and HPS 70W [HPS 485W] shall have an atmospheric
10. Impact Testing Requirements
corrosion resistance index of 6.0 or higher, calculated from the
10.1 Non-Fracture-Critical, T, Tension Components— heat analysis in accordance with Guide G101, Predictive
Structural products ordered for use as tension components of Method Based on the Data of Larabee and Coburn (see Note
non-fracture-critical members shall be impact tested in accor- 3). When properly exposed to the atmosphere, these steels can
dance with Specification A673/A673M and as given in Table be used bare (unpainted) for many applications. The steel for
10. The test results shall meet the requirements given in Table Grade HPS 100W [HPS 690W] provides an improved level of
10. atmospheric corrosion resistance over alloy steel without
10.2 Fracture-Critical, F, Tension Components—Structural copper.
products ordered for use as tension components of fracture- 13.1.3 The steel for Grade 50CR [345CR] may be used bare
critical members shall be impact tested in accordance with (unpainted) in some applications where traditional weathering
Specification A673/A673M and as given in Table 11. The test steel does not perform successfully.
results shall meet the requirements given in Table 11. NOTE 3—For methods of estimating the atmospheric corrosion resis-
10.3 Steel grades ordered for use without suffix T or F as tance of low-alloy steels, see Guide G101. The user is cautioned that the
Guide G101 predictive equation (Predictive Method Based on the Data of
listed in 10.1 and 10.2 do not require impact testing and shall Larabee and Coburn) for calculation of an atmospheric corrosion resis-
be used as non-tension components or secondary members tance index has only been verified for the composition limits stated in that
only. guide.

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 A709/A709M − 17
14. Marking 14.1.3 For structural products that conform to the require-
14.1 In addition to the marking requirements of Specifica- ments of 10.2, the letter F and the applicable zone number (1,
tion A6/A6M, the structural product shall be marked as 2, or 3) shall follow the grade designation.
follows:
14.1.1 For Grade 50W [345W], the composition type shall 15. Keywords
be included. 15.1 alloy; atmospheric corrosion resistance; bars; bridges;
14.1.2 For structural products that conform to the require- carbon; fracture-critical; high-strength; low-alloy; non-fracture
ments of 10.1, the letter T and the applicable zone number (1, critical; plates; quenched; shapes; steel; structural steel; tem-
2, or 3) shall follow the grade designation. pered

SUPPLEMENTARY REQUIREMENTS

Supplementary requirements shall not apply unless specified in the purchase order or contract.
Standardized supplementary requirements for use at the option of the purchaser are listed in
Specification A6/A6M. Those that are considered suitable for use with this specification are listed by
title:

S8. Ultrasonic Examination tested. If shapes are heat treated, one test shall be made on
S5.1 Refer to S8 of Specification A6/A6M. specimens taken from each heat of the same nominal size,
excluding length, in each furnace lot.
S32. Single Heat Bundles S60.1.3 Bars—One tension test shall be made using a test
S32.1 Bundles containing shapes or bars shall be from a specimen taken from each 5 tons [5 Mg] of the same heat and
single heat of steel. same diameter or thickness if the material is furnished as-rolled
or is heat treated in a continuous-type furnace. For material
S60. Frequency of Tension Tests heat treated in other than a continuous-type furnace, one test
S60.1 Tension testing that is additional to the tension testing shall be taken from each heat of the same bar diameter or
required by Specification A6/A6M shall be made, as follows: thickness for each furnace charge.
S60.1.1 Plate—One tension test shall be made using a test
specimen taken from each as-rolled or as-heat treated plate. S92. Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance
S60.1.2 Structural Shapes—One tension test shall be made S92.1 When specified, the material manufacturer shall sup-
using a test specimen taken from each 5 tons [5 Mg] of material ply to the purchaser evidence of atmospheric corrosion resis-
produced on the same mill of the same nominal size, excluding tance satisfactory to the purchaser.
length, from each heat of steel. For single pieces that weigh S92.2 Refer to S23 of Specification A6/A6M (applicable
more than 5 tons [5 Mg] individually, each piece shall be only to Grades 36 [250] and 50 [345]).

ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENTARY REQUIREMENTS

Standardized supplementary requirements for use at the option of the purchaser are listed in
Specification A6/A6M as follows:

S18. Maximum Tensile Strength (Grades 50 [345],

50S [345S], 50W [345W], and HPS 50W [HPS 345W]).

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 A709/A709M − 17
SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee A01 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(A709/A709M – 16a) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved Sept. 1, 2017.)

(1) Revised 1.1, 1.1.1, and 1.1.2. (5) Added 6.7, 7.3, and 13.1.3.
(2) Revised Table 1. (6) Revised Table 10, Table 11, 10.3, 11.1, 11.2, 12.1, and
(3) Revised Table 4 to remove Type 5 information to be 13.1.
compliant with AASHTO/AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code.
(4) Added Table 5 and renumbered the subsequent tables
accordingly.

Committee A01 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(A709/A709M – 16) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved May 1, 2016.)

(1) Revised footnotes in Table 10 and Table 11.

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