ASTM A514 Grade B: Quenched-and-Tempered High-Strength Structural Steel Plate

ASTM A514/A514M · Published: 2026-06-03 · Updated: July 2026

Quick Reference

ASTM A514 Grade B is a quenched-and-tempered alloy steel plate with 690 MPa minimum yield — nearly 3× the strength of A36. It is specified for heavy equipment (crane booms, mining truck frames), pressure vessels requiring high strength-to-weight,...

ASTM A514 Grade B is a quenched-and-tempered alloy steel plate with 690 MPa minimum yield — nearly 3× the strength of A36. It is specified for heavy equipment (crane booms, mining truck frames), pressure vessels requiring high strength-to-weight, and structural nodes where section thickness must be minimized. Welding requires low-hydrogen practices and careful heat input control.

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
JIS SHY685 Compare
EN 1.8932 Compare

Related Materials

🧮 Material Weight Calculator

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What welding precautions are required for A514?

Critical: (1) Use low-hydrogen electrodes (H4 or H8 classification) — hydrogen-induced cracking is the #1 failure mode. (2) Maintain preheat at 100-150°C depending on thickness. (3) Control heat input (1.5-3.5 kJ/mm) — excessive heat input softens the heat-affected zone, reducing strength. (4) Post-weld dehydrogenation at 200-250°C for 2 hours minimum for sections above 25mm.

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