ASTM A514 Grade B (T-1 Type B): Quenched & Tempered High-Strength Plate

ASTM A514/A514M · Published: 2026-06-01 · Updated: 2026-06-02

Quick Reference

ASTM A514 Grade B is a quenched and tempered high-strength structural steel plate with 690 MPa (100 ksi) minimum yield strength—nearly 3× stronger than A36. It is produced to a controlled chemistry with chromium, molybdenum, and vanadium...

ASTM A514 Grade B is a quenched and tempered high-strength structural steel plate with 690 MPa (100 ksi) minimum yield strength—nearly 3× stronger than A36. It is produced to a controlled chemistry with chromium, molybdenum, and vanadium additions that ensure full hardenability in plates up to 65 mm thick. Used for heavy construction equipment (crane booms, excavator buckets), pressure vessels, and bridges where the high strength-to-weight ratio justifies the premium cost (3-5× A36). Requires careful welding procedures: preheat to 100-150°C, use low-hydrogen E11018 or ER110S electrodes, limit heat input, and avoid excessive weld restraint. Do not exceed 590°C in post-weld heat treatment to prevent overtempering. All A514 grades are also available as 'T-1'—ArcelorMittal's original trade name for this family of Q&T constructional steels.

Quick Facts

CategoryAlloy Steel
StandardASTM A514/A514M
Density7.85 g/cm³
Yield Strength690 MPa (100 ksi)
Tensile Strength760-895 MPa (110-130 ksi)

Global Equivalents & Cross-Reference

Alternative Standard / GradeAction
S690QL Compare
Q690D Compare
WEL-TEN 590RE Compare
RQT 701 Compare
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Related Materials

🧮 Material Weight Calculator

Calculate the weight based on this material's density: 7.85 g/cm³

Frequently Asked Questions

Can A514 be welded to A36?

Yes, this is common practice—A514 for the highly stressed main members, A36 for secondary framing and attachments. Use E7018 or E8018 electrodes; the weld will be slightly undermatching for the A514 side but is acceptable if the joint is designed with the lower-strength filler in mind and the weld is placed away from peak stress areas. Alternatively, butter the A514 side with E11018, then fill with E7018 using a temper-bead technique for critical applications.

References & International Standards

  • ASTM International. Standard Specifications for Steel & Metal Alloys. astm.org
  • International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Metallic Materials — Cross-Reference Database. iso.org
  • American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Steel Grade Designations & Equivalents. steel.org
  • European Committee for Standardization (CEN). EN Steel Standards & Numbering System. cencenelec.eu