Designation: A 709/A 709M – 07

Standard Specification for

Structural Steel for Bridges1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A 709/A 709M; 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 (e) 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 and quenched and are provided in this standard, and they are based upon
tempered alloy steel for structural plates intended for use in American Association of State Highway and Transportation
bridges. Nine grades are available in four yield strength levels Officials (AASHTO) requirements for both fracture critical and
as follows: non-fracture critical members.
Grade U.S. [SI] Yield Strength, ksi [MPa]
1.5 Supplementary requirements are available but shall
apply only if specified in the purchase order.
36 [250] 36 [250]
50 [345] 50 [345] 1.6 The values stated in either inch-pound units or SI units
50S [345S] 50 [345] are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the
50W [345W] 50 [345] SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each
HPS 50W [HPS 345W] 50 [345]
HPS 70W [HPS 485W] 70 [485] system are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system is to
100 [690] 100 [690] be used independently of the other, without combining values
100W [690W] 100 [690] in any way.
HPS 100W [HPS 690W] 100 [690]
1.7 For structural products produced from coil and fur-
1.1.1 Grades 36 [250], 50 [345], 50S [345S], 50W [345W], nished without heat treatment or with stress relieving only, the
100 [690], and 100W [690W] are also included in Specifica- additional requirements, including additional testing require-
tions A 36/A 36M, A 572/A 572M, A 992/A 992M, A 588/A ments and the reporting of additional test results, of Specifi-
588M, and A 514/A 514M, respectively. When the supplemen- cation A 6/A 6M apply.
tary requirements of this specification are specified, they
exceed the requirements of Specifications A 36/A 36M, 2. Referenced Documents
A 572/A 572M, A 992/A 992M, A 588/A 588M, and A 514/A 2.1 ASTM Standards: 2
514M. A 6/A 6M Specification for General Requirements for
1.1.2 Grades 50W [345W], HPS 50W [HPS 345W], HPS Rolled Structural Steel Bars, Plates, Shapes, and Sheet
70W [HPS 485W], 100W [690W], and HPS 100W [HPS Piling
690W] have enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance (see A 36/A 36M Specification for Carbon Structural Steel
14.1.2). Product availability is shown in Table 1. A 370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing
1.2 Grade HPS 70W [HPS 485W], 100 [690], 100W of Steel Products
[690W], or HPS 100W [HPS 690W] shall not be substituted
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A 514/A 514M Specification for High-Yield-Strength,

for Grades 36 [250], 50 [345], 50S [345S], 50W [345W], or Quenched and Tempered Alloy Steel Plate, Suitable for
HPS 50W [HPS 345W]. Grade 50W [345W], or HPS 50W Welding
[HPS 345W] shall not be substituted for Grades 36 [250], 50 A 572/A 572M Specification for High-Strength Low-Alloy
[345] or 50S [345S] without agreement between the purchaser Columbium-Vanadium Structural Steel
and the supplier. A 588/A 588M Specification for High-Strength Low-Alloy
1.3 When the steel is to be welded, it is presupposed that a Structural Steel, up to 50 ksi [345 MPa] Minimum Yield
welding procedure suitable for the grade of steel and intended Point, with Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance
use or service will be utilized. See Appendix X3 of Specifica- A 673/A 673M Specification for Sampling Procedure for
tion A 6/A 6M for information on weldability. Impact Testing of Structural Steel

1
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel,
2
Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
A01.02 on Structural Steel for Bridges, Buildings, Rolling Stock and Ships. contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Current edition approved March 1, 2007. Published March 2007. Originally Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
approved in 1974. Last previous edition approved in 2006 as A 709/A 709M– 06a. the ASTM website.

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

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 A 709/A 709M – 07
TABLE 1 Tensile and Hardness RequirementsA
NOTE 1— Where “. . .” appears in this table, there is no requirement.

Minimum Elongation, %
Yield Point
Reduc- Brinell
Structural Shape Flange or Yield Tensile Plates and BarsC,E ShapesE
Plate Thickness, tion of Hard-
Grade or Leg Strength,B Strength,
in. [mm] 8 in. 2 in. 8 in. 2 in. AreaC,D ness
Thickness, in. [mm] ksi ksi [MPa]
or 200 or 50 or 200 or 50 min, % Number
[MPa]
mm mm 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]HI
50W [345W] and to 4 [100], incl all 50 [345] min 70 [485] min 18 21 18 21J
HPS 50W ... ...
[HPS 345W]
G
HPS 70W [HPS to 4 [100], incl 70 [485] minB 85–110 [585–760] ... 19K ... ...
... ...
485 W]
G
100 [690] , to 21⁄2 [65], incl 100 [690] minB 110–130 [760–895] ... 18K ... ...
100W [690W], L
235–293M
and HPS 100W
[HPS 690W]
G
100 [690] and over 21⁄2 to 90 [620] minB 100–130 [690–895] ... 16K ... ... L ...
100W [690 W] 4 [65 to 100]
A
See specimen orientation and preparation subsection in the Tension Tests section of Specification A 6/A 6 M.
B
Measured at 0.2 % offset or 0.5 % extension under load as described in Section 13 of Test Methods A 370.
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 A 6/A 6M.
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 A 370) 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 A 370) 1 1⁄2 –in. [40-mm] wide specimen; 50 % minimum applies if measured on the Fig. 4 (Test Methods
A 370) 1⁄2 –in. [12.5-mm] round specimen.
M
Applies only to Grades 100 [690] and 100W [690W] plates that are 3⁄8 in. [10 mm] or less in thickness and are not tension tested (See 8.1).

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 A 6/A 6M.

PlatesB BarsB
Product
ShapesA Over ⁄34 Over 1 ⁄ to
12 Over 2 ⁄ to 4
12 To ⁄
34 Over ⁄ to
34
Thickness, To 3⁄4 Over 11⁄2 to
All to 11⁄2 [20 to 40], 21⁄2 [40 to 65], [65 to 100], [20], 11⁄2 [20 to
in. (mm) [20], incl 4 [100], incl
incl incl incl incl 40], 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 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04
Sulfur, max, % 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 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
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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 %.

A 992/A 992M Specification for Structural Steel Shapes whose failure would be expected to cause collapse of a
G 101 Guide for Estimating the Atmospheric Corrosion structure or bridge without multiple, redundant load paths.
Resistance of Low-Alloy Steels 3.1.2 main load-carrying member—a steel member de-
signed to carry primary design loads, including dead, live,
3. Terminology impact, and other loads.
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: 3.1.3 non-fracture critical member—a main load-carrying
3.1.1 fracture critical member—a main load-carrying ten- member whose failure would not be expected to cause collapse
sion member or tension component of a bending member of a structure or bridge with multiple, redundant load paths.

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 A 709/A 709M – 07
TABLE 3 Grade 50 [345] Chemical RequirementsA (Heat Analysis)
Columbium,
SiliconC Vanadium
and Nitrogen
Maximum Diameter, Carbon, Manganese,B Phosphorus, Sulfur, Plates to Plates Over
Thickness, or max, % max, % max, % max, % 11⁄2-in. 11⁄2 –in. [40-mm]
Distance Between [40–mm] Thick, Thick and Shapes
Parallel Faces, in. [mm] Shapes with with flange thickness
flange over 3 in. [75 mm], %
or leg
thickness
to 3 in. [75
mm]
inclusive, Sheet
Piling, Bars,
Zees, and
Rolled
Tees,
max, %D
E
4 [100] 0.23 1.35 0.04 0.05 0.40 0.15–0.40
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
Silicon content in excess of 0.40 % by heat analysis must be negotiated.
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D
Bars over 1 1⁄2 in. [40 mm] in diameter, thickness, or distance between parallel faces, shall be made by a killed steel practice.
E
Alloy content shall be in accordance with Type 1, 2, 3, or 5 and the contents of the applicable elements shall be reported on the test report.
Type Elements Heat Analysis, %
1 ColumbiumA 0.005–0.05B
2 Vanadium 0.01–0.15
3 ColumbiumA 0.005–0.05B
Vanadium 0.01–0.15
Columbium plus vanadium 0.02–0.15C
5 Titanium 0.006–0.04
Nitrogen 0.003–0.015
Vanadium 0.06 max
A
Columbium shall be restricted to Grade 50 [345] plate, bar, zee, and rolled tee thickness of 3⁄4 in. [20 mm] max, and to shapes with flange or leg thickness to 11⁄2 in.
[40 mm] inclusive unless killed steel is furnished. Killed steel shall be confirmed by a statement of killed steel on the test report, or by a report of the presence of a sufficient
quantity of a strong deoxidizing element, such as silicon at 0.10 % or higher, or aluminum at 0.015 % or higher.
B
Product analysis limits = 0.004 to 0.06 %.
C
Product analysis limits = 0.01 to 0.16 %

TABLE 4 Grade 50W [345 W] Chemical Requirements (Heat utilities, signs, or other items to them, but not to directly
Analysis) support primary design loads
NOTE 1—Types A, B, and C are equivalent to Specification A 588/ 3.1.6 tension component—a part or element of a fracture
A 588M Grades A, B, and C, respectively. critical or non-fracture critical member that is in tension under
various design loadings.
Element Composition, %A
Type A Type B Type C 4. Ordering Requirements
Carbon B
0.19 max 0.20 max 0.15 max 4.1 In addition to the items listed in the ordering informa-
ManganeseB 0.80–1.25 0.75–1.35 0.80–1.35 tion section of Specification A 6/A 6M, the following items
Phosphorus 0.04 max 0.04 max 0.04 max
Sulfur 0.05 max 0.05 max 0.05 max should be considered if applicable:
Silicon 0.30–0.65 0.15–0.50 0.15–0.40 4.1.1 Type of component (tension or non-tension, fracture
Nickel 0.40 max 0.50 max 0.25–0.50 critical or non-fracture critical) (see Section 10).
Chromium 0.40–0.65 0.40–0.70 0.30–0.50
Copper 0.25–0.40 0.20–0.40 0.20–0.50 4.2 Impact testing temperature zone (see Table 8).
Vanadium 0.02–0.10 0.01–0.10 0.01–0.10
A
Weldability data for these types have been qualified by FHWA for use in bridge
5. General Requirements for Delivery
construction.
B
5.1 Structural products furnished under this specification
For each reduction of 0.01 percentage point below the specified maximum for
carbon, an increase of 0.06 percentage point above the specified maximum for
shall conform to the requirements of the current edition of
manganese is permitted, up to a maximum of 1.50 %. Specification A 6/A 6M, for the specific structural product
ordered, unless a conflict exists in which case this specification
shall prevail.
3.1.4 non-tension component—a steel member that is not in 5.2 Coils are excluded from qualification to this specifica-
tension under any design loading. tion until they are processed into a finished structural product.
3.1.5 secondary member—a steel member used for aligning Structural products produced from coil means structural prod-
and bracing of main load-carrying members, or for attaching ucts that have been cut to individual lengths from a coil. The

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TABLE 5 Grade 100 [690] and 100W [690W] Chemical Requirements (Heat Analysis)
NOTE 1— Where “. . .” appears in this table there is no requirement.
NOTE 2—Types A, B, C, E, F, H, J, M, P, and Q are equivalent to Specification A 514/A 514M Grades A, B, C, E, F, H, J, M, P, and Q, respectively.

Type A, Type B, Type C, Type EA, Type FA, Type H, Type J, Type M, Type PA, Type QA,
% % % % % % % % % %
Maximum 1 1 ⁄4 1 1⁄ 4 1 1⁄ 4 4 2 1⁄ 2 2 1 1⁄4 2 4 4
Thickness, [32] [32] [32] [100] [65] [50] [32] [50] [100] [100]
in. [mm]
Carbon 0.15–0.21 0.12–0.21 0.10–0.20 0.12–0.20 0.10–0.20 0.12–0.21 0.12–0.21 0.12–0.21 0.12–0.21 0.14–0.21
Manganese 0.80–1.10 0.70–1.00 1.10–1.50 0.40–0.70 0.60–1.00 0.95–1.30 0.45–0.70 0.45–0.70 0.45–0.70 0.95–1.30
Phosphorus, 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035
max
Sulfur, max 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035 0.035
Silicon 0.40–0.80 0.20–0.35 0.15–0.30 0.20–0.40 0.15–0.35 0.20–0.35 0.20–0.35 0.20–0.35 0.20–0.35 0.15–0.35
Nickel ... ... ... ... 0.70–1.00 0.30–0.70 ... 1.20–1.50 1.20–1.50 1.20–1.50
Chromium 0.50–0.80 0.40–0.65 ... 1.40–2.00 0.40–0.65 0.40–0.65 ... ... 0.85–1.20 1.00–1.50
Molybdenum 0.18–0.28 0.15–0.25 0.15–0.30 0.40–0.60 0.40–0.60 0.20–0.30 0.50–0.65 0.45–0.60 0.45–0.60 0.40–0.60
B
Vanadium ... 0.03–0.08 ... 0.03–0.08 0.03–0.08 ... ... ... 0.03–0.08
Titanium ... 0.01–0.03 ... 0.01–0.10 ... ... ... ... ... . ..
Zirconium 0.05–0.15C ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
Copper ... ... ... ... 0.15–0.50 ... ... ... ... ...
Boron 0.0025–max 0.0005–0.005 0.001–0.005 0.001–0.005 0.0005–0.006 0.0005–0.005 0.001–0.005 0.001–0.005 0.001–0.005 ...
A
Types E, F, P, and Q meet the requirements of atmospheric corrosion resistance in accordance with 11.1.2.
B
May be substituted for part or all of titanium content on a one for one basis.
C
Zirconium may be replaced by cerium. When cerium is added, the cerium/sulfur ratio should be approximately 1.5 to 1, based upon heat analysis.

TABLE 6 Grades HPS 50W [HPS 345W] and HPS 70W TABLE 7 Grade 50S [345S] Chemical Requirements
[HPS 485 W], and HPS 100W [HPS 690W] Chemical Requirements (Heat Analysis)
(Heat Analysis) Element Composition, %
NOTE 1— Where “. . .” appears in this table, there is no requirement. Carbon, max 0.23
Manganese 0.50 to 1.60A
Element Composition, %
Silicon, max 0.40
Grades Vanadium, max 0.15B
Grade
HPS 50W [HPS 345W], Columbium, max 0.05B
HPS 100W [HPS 690W]
HPS 70W [HPS 485W] Phosphorus, max 0.035
Sulfur, max 0.045
Copper, max 0.60
Carbon 0.11 max 0.08 max
Nickel, max 0.45
Manganese
Chromium, max 0.35
2.5 in. [65 mm] and under 1.10–1.35 0.95–1.50
A Molybdenum, max 0.15
Over 2.5 in. [65 mm] 1.10–1.50
A
Phosphorus 0.020 max 0.015 max Provided that the ratio of manganese to sulfur is not less than 20 to 1, the
SulfurB 0.006 max 0.006 max minimum limit for manganese for shapes with flange or leg thickness not
Silicon 0.30–0.50 0.15–0.35 exceeding 1 in. [25 mm] shall be 0.30 %.
B
Copper 0.25–0.40 0.90–1.20 The sum of columbium and vanadium shall not exceed 0.15 %.
Nickel 0.25–0.40 0.65–0.90
Chromium 0.45–0.70 0.40–0.65
Molybdenum 0.02–0.08 0.40–0.65 TABLE 8 Relationship Between Impact Testing Temperature
Vanadium 0.04–0.08 0.04–0.08 Zones and Minimum Service Temperature
Columbium (Niobium) ... 0.01–0.03
Aluminum 0.010–0.040 0.020–0.050 Zone Minimum Service Temperature, °F [°C]
Nitrogen 0.015 max 0.015 max
1 0 [−18]
A
Not applicable. 2 below 0 to −30 [−18 to −34]
B
The steel shall be calcium treated for sulfide shape control. 3 below −30 to −60 [−34 to −51]

processor directly controls, or is responsible for, the operations

involved in the processing of a coil into a finished structural 6. Materials and Manufacture
product. Such operations include decoiling, leveling or
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straightening, hot-forming or cold-forming (if applicable), 6.1 For Grades 36 [250] and 50 [345], the steel shall be
cutting to length, testing, inspection, conditioning, heat treat- semi-killed or killed.
ment (if applicable), packaging, marking, loading for shipment, 6.2 For Grades 50W [345W], HPS 50W [HPS 345W], and
and certification. HPS 70W [HPS 485W], the steel shall be made to fine grain
practice.
NOTE 1—For structural products produced from coil and furnished
without heat treatment or with stress relieving only, two test results are to
6.3 For Grade 50S [345S], the steel shall be killed and such
be reported for each qualifying coil. Additional requirements regarding shall be affirmed in the test report by a statement of killed steel,
structural products produced from coil are described in Specification a value of 0.10 % or more for the silicon content, or a value of
A 6/A 6M. 0.015 % or more for the total aluminum content.

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6.4 For Grade 50S [345S], the steelmaking practice used equivalent shall be reported. The carbon equivalent shall be
shall be one that produces steel having a nitrogen content not calculated using the following formula:
greater than 0.015 % and includes the addition of one or more Mn ~Cr 1 Mo 1 V! ~Ni 1 Cu!
nitrogen-binding elements, or one that produces steel having a CE 5 C 1 6 1 5 1 15 (1)
nitrogen content of not greater than 0.012 % (with or without
the addition of nitrogen-binding elements). The nitrogen con- 9. Tensile Requirements
tent need not be reported, regardless of which steelmaking 9.1 The material as represented by test specimens, except as
practice was used. specified in 9.2, shall conform to the requirements for tensile
6.5 For Grades HPS 50W [HPS 345W], HPS 70W [HPS properties given in Table 1.
485W], and HPS 100W [HPS 690W], the steel shall be made 9.2 For Grade 36 [250], shapes less than 1 in. 2[645 mm2] in
using a low-hydrogen practice, such as vacuum degassing cross section and bars, other than flats, less than 1⁄2 in. [12.5
during steel making; controlled soaking of the ingots, slabs; mm] in thickness or diameter need not be subjected to tension
controlled slow cooling of the ingots, slabs, or plates, or a tests by the manufacturer.
combination thereof.
6.6 For Grades 100 [690], 100W [690W],and HPS 100W 10. Impact Testing Requirements
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[HPS 690W], the requirements for fine austenitic grain size in

10.1 Non-Fracture-Critical, T, Tension Components—
Specification A 6/A 6M shall be met.
Structural products ordered for use as tension components of
6.7 Grades HPS 50W [HPS 345W] and HPS 70W [HPS
non-fracture-critical members shall be impact tested in accor-
485W] shall be furnished in one of the following conditions:
dance with Specification A 673/A 673M and as given in Table
as-rolled, control-rolled, thermo-mechanical control processed
9. The test results shall meet the requirements given in Table 9.
(TMCP) with or without accelerated cooling, or quenched and
10.2 Fracture-Critical, F, Tension Components—Structural
tempered.
products ordered for use as tension components of fracture-
critical members shall be impact tested in accordance with
7. Heat Treatment Specification A 673/A 673M and as given in Table 10. The test
7.1 For quenched and tempered Grades HPS 50W [HPS results shall meet the requirements given in Table 10.
345W] and HPS 70W [HPS 485W], the heat treatment shall be 10.3 Steel grades ordered for use without suffix T or F as
performed by the manufacturer and shall consist of heating the listed in 10.1 and 10.2 do not require impact testing and shall
steel to not less than 1650 °F [900 °C], quenching it in water be used as non-tension components or secondary members
or oil, and tempering it at not less than 1100 °F [590 °C]. The only.
heat-treating temperatures shall be reported on the test certifi-
cates. 11. Brinell Hardness Requirements for Grades 100 [690]
7.2 For Grades 100 [690] and 100W [690W], the heat and 100W [690W]
treatment shall be performed by the manufacturer and shall 11.1 For plates 3⁄8 in. [10 mm] and under in thickness, a
consist of heating the steel to not less than 1650 °F [900 °C], Brinell hardness test may be used instead of tension testing
quenching it in water or oil, and tempering it at not less than each plate, in which case a tension test specimen shall be taken
1150 °F [620 °C]. The heat-treating temperatures shall be from a corner of each of two plates per lot. A lot shall consist
reported on the test certificates. of plates from the same heat and thickness, same prior
7.3 For Grade HPS 100W [HPS 690W], the heat treatment condition and scheduled heat treatment and shall not exceed 15
shall be performed by the manufacturer and shall consist of tons [15 Mg] in weight [mass]. A Brinell hardness test shall be
heating the steel to a temperature in the range from 1600 to made on each plate not tension tested and shall meet the
1700°F [870 to 925°C], quenching it in water, and tempering it requirements given in Table 1.
at not less than 1050°F [565°C] for a time to be determined by
the manufacturer. The heat-treating temperatures shall be 12. Test Specimens and Number of Tension Tests
reported on the test certificates. 12.1 For Grades 36 [250], 50 [345], and 50W [345W], and
non-quenched and tempered Grades HPS 50W [HPS 345W]
8. Chemical Requirements and HPS 70W [HPS 485W], location and condition, number of
8.1 The heat analysis shall conform to the requirements for tests, and preparation of test specimens shall meet the require-
the specified grade, as given in Tables 2-7. ments of Specification A 6/A 6M.
8.2 For Grade 50S [345S], in addition to the elements listed 12.2 The following requirements, which are in addition to
in Table 7, test reports shall include, for information, the those of Specification A 6/A 6M, shall apply only to Grades
chemical analysis for tin. Where the amount of tin is less than 100 [690], 100W [690W], and HPS 100W [HPS 690W], and
0.02 %, it shall be permissible for the analysis to be reported as quenched and tempered Grades HPS 50W [HPS 345W] and
< 0.02 %. HPS 70W [HPS 485 W].
8.3 For Grade 50S [345S], the maximum permissible car- 12.2.1 When possible, all test specimens shall be cut from
bon equivalent value shall be 0.47 % for structural shapes with the plate in its heat-treated condition. If it is necessary to
flange thickness over 2 in. [50 mm], and 0.45 % for other prepare test specimens from separate pieces, all of these pieces
structural shapes. The carbon equivalent shall be based on heat shall be full thickness, and shall be similarly and simulta-
analysis. The required chemical analysis as well as the carbon neously heat treated with the material. All such separate pieces

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 A 709/A 709M – 07
TABLE 9 Non-Fracture Critical Tension Component Impact Test Requirements

Minimum Average Energy, ft·lbf [J]

Grade Thickness, 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]AB, 50ST 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]
[345ST]A, 50WT 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]
[345WT]AB

HPS 50WT [HPS 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]
345WT]AB
HPS 70WT [HPS
485WT]CD

100T [690T]C, 100WT to 2 1⁄2 [65] incl.ed 25 [34] at 30°F [−1°C] 25 [34] at 0°F [−18°C] 25 [34] at −30°F [−34°C]
[690WT]C over 2 1⁄2 to 4 [65 to 100] incl. 35 [48] at 30°F [−1°C] 35 [48] at 0°F [−18°C] 35 [48] at −30°F [−34°C]

HPS 100WT to 2 1⁄2 [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
A
The CVN-impact testing shall be at “H” frequency in accordance with Specification A 673/A 673M.
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 of 10 ksi [70 MPa] above 65 ksi [450 MPa]. The yield point is the value given in the test report.
C
The CVN-impact testing shall be at “P” frequency in accordance with Specification A 673/A 673M.
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 of 10 ksi [70 MPa] above 85 ksi [585 MPa]. The yield strength is the value given in the test report.

TABLE 10 Fracture Critical Tension Component Impact Test Requirements

Minimum
Test Minimum Average EnergyA, ft·lbf [J]
Thickness, in.
Grade Value
[mm]
Energy,A Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3
ft-lbf [J]
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]

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

HPS 50WF [HPS 345WF]B 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 70WF [HPS 485WF]C 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]

100F [690F], 100WF to 21⁄2 [65] incl. 28 [38] 35 [48] at 30°F [−1°C] 35 [48] at 0°F [−18°C] 35 [48] at −30°F [−34°C]

--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
[690WF] over 2 1⁄2 to 4 36 [49] 45 [61] at 30°F [−1°C] 45 [61] at 0°F [−18°C] not permitted
[65 to 100] incl.

HPS 100WF [HPS 690WF] to 2 1⁄2 [65] incl. 28 [38] 35 [48] at –30°F [−34°C] 35 [48] at –30°F [−34°C] not permitted
A
The CVN-impact testing shall be at “P” frequency in accordance with Specification A 673/A 673M except for plates of Grades 36F [250F], 50F [345F], 50WF [345WF],
HPS 50WF [HPS 345WF], and HPS 70WF [HPS 485WF], 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 of 10 ksi [70 MPa] above 65 ksi [450 MPa]. The yield point is the value given in the test report.
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 of 10 ksi [70 MPa] above 85 ksi [585 MPa]. The yield strength is the value given in the test report.

shall be of such size that the prepared test specimens are free 345W] and HPS 70W [HPS 485W] shall be retested in
of any variation in properties due to edge effects. accordance with Specification A 6/A 6M.
12.2.2 After final heat treatment of the plates, one tension 13.2 Grades 100 [690], 100W [690W], and HPS 100W
test specimen shall be taken from a corner of each plate as heat [HPS 690W] plates that are subjected to Brinell hardness tests
treated (except as specified in 11.1). and fail to meet the hardness requirements, at the manufactur-
NOTE 2—The term “plate” identifies the “plate as heat treated.” er’s option, may be subjected to tension testing and shall be
accepted if the results conform to the requirements given in
13. Retests Table 1.
13.1 Grades 36 [250], 50 [345], 50S [345S], and 50W 13.3 The manufacturer may reheat treat quenched and
[345W], and non-quenched and tempered HPS 50W [HPS tempered plates that fail to meet the mechanical property

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 A 709/A 709M – 07
requirements of this specification. All mechanical property The user is cautioned that the Guide G 101 predictive equation (Predictive
tests shall be repeated when the material is resubmitted for Method Based on the Data of Larabee and Coburn) for calculation of an
inspection. atmospheric corrosion resistance index has only been verified for the
composition limits stated in that guide.
14. Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance 15. Marking
14.1 Steels meeting this specification provide two levels of 15.1 In addition to the marking requirements of Specifica-
atmospheric corrosion resistance: tion A 6/A 6M, the structural product shall be marked as
14.1.1 Steel grades without suffix provide a level of atmo- follows:
spheric corrosion resistance typical of carbon or alloy steel 15.1.1 For Grades 50W [345W], 100 [690], and 100W
without copper. [690W], the composition type shall be included.
14.1.2 The steel for Grades 50W [345W], HPS 50W [HPS 15.1.2 For structural products that conform to the require-
345W], and HPS 70W [HPS 485W] shall have an atmospheric ments of 10.1, the letter T and the applicable zone number (1,
corrosion resistance index of 6.0 or higher, calculated from the 2, or 3) shall follow the grade designation.
heat analysis in accordance with Guide G 101-Predictive 15.1.3 For structural products that conform to the require-
Method Based on the Data of Larabee and Coburn (see Note ments of 10.2, the letter F and the applicable zone number (1,
3). When properly exposed to the atmosphere, these steels can 2, or 3) shall follow the grade designation.
be used bare (unpainted) for many applications. The steel for
Grades 100W [690W] and HPS 100W [HPS 690W] provides 16. Keywords
an improved level of atmospheric corrosion resistance over 16.1 alloy; atmospheric corrosion resistance; bars; bridges;
alloy steel without copper. carbon; fracture-critical; high-strength; low-alloy; non-fracture
NOTE 3—For methods of estimating the atmospheric corrosion resis- critical; plates; quenched; shapes; steel; structural steel;
tance of low-alloy steels, see Guide G 101. tempered

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 A 6/A 6M. Those that are considered suitable for use with this specification are listed by
title:

S8. Ultrasonic Examination S60.1.3 Bars—One tension test shall be made using a test
S5.1 Refer to S8 of Specification A 6/A 6M. specimen taken from each 5 tons [5 Mg] of the same heat and
same diameter or thickness if the material is furnished as-rolled
S32. Single Heat Bundles or is heat treated in a continuous-type furnace. For material
S32.1 Bundles containing shapes or bars shall be from a heat treated in other than a continuous-type furnace, one test
single heat of steel. shall be taken from each heat of the same bar diameter or
thickness for each furnace charge.
S60. Frequency of Tension Tests
S92. Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance
--`,,```,,,,````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

S60.1 Tension testing that is additional to the tension testing

required by Specification A 6/A 6M shall be made, as follows: S92.1 When specified, the material manufacturer shall sup-
S60.1.1 Plate—One tension test shall be made using a test ply to the purchaser evidence of atmospheric corrosion resis-
specimen taken from each as-rolled or as-heat treated plate. tance satisfactory to the purchaser.
S60.1.2 Structural Shapes—One tension test shall be made
S92.2 Refer to S23 of Specification A 6/A 6M (applicable
using a test specimen taken from each 5 tons [5 Mg] of material
only to Grades 36 [250], 50 [345], and 100 [690]).
produced on the same mill of the same nominal size, excluding
length, from each heat of steel. For single pieces that weigh
more than 5 tons [5 Mg] individually, each piece shall be S93. Limitation on Weld Repair (Fracture Critical
tested. If shapes are heat treated, one test shall be made on Material Only)
specimens taken from each heat of the same nominal size, S93.1 Weld repair of the base metal by the material manu-
excluding length, in each furnace lot. facturer or supplier is not permitted.

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 A 709/A 709M – 07
ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENTARY REQUIREMENTS

Standardized supplementary requirements for use at the option of the purchaser are listed in
Specification A 6/A 6M as follows:

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

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

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee A01 has identified the location of the following changes to this standard since A 709/A 709M-06a
that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved March 1, 2007.)

(1) Changed values in Table 7, Table 9, and Table 10. (3) Changed tension requirements in 4.1.1.
(2) Added 3.1.4 and 10.3.

Committee A01 has identified the location of the following changes to this standard since A 709/A 709M-06 that may impact
the use of this standard. (Approved Sept. 1, 2006.)

(1) Table 1, Table 3, Table 6, and Table 7. changes to this standard since A 709/A 709M-05 that may
Committee A01 has identified the location of the following impact the use of this standard. (Approved March 15, 2006.)

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