Products FAQ
What is the difference between ABS Grade A and Grade D?
Although both grades have the same strength rating, the main difference lies in the impact toughness requirements. Grade A does not typically require low-temperature impact testing, whereas Grade D must achieve the specified impact energy at -20°C (longitudinal: ≥ 27 kJ, transverse: ≥ 20 kJ).
What is the lead time for ABS Grade B shipbuilding steel plates?
The lead time for ABS Grade B shipbuilding steel plates depends on the specifications and order quantity. For standard specifications of ABS Grade B steel plates, the lead time is 15–20 working days; for custom specifications or large orders of ABS Grade B shipbuilding steel plates, we will confirm the delivery date with you in advance to ensure on-time delivery.
Do you provide ABS certification documents for your ABS shipbuilding plates?
Yes, all our ABS shipbuilding plates are certified by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). We will provide full certification documents and a Material Test Certificate (MTC) to ensure that our ABS steel plate products comply with international maritime industry regulations and meet the acceptance requirements for our customers’ projects.
Can ABS Grade B shipbuilding steel plates be customised?
Yes, we can customise the thickness, width, length and delivery terms of ABS Grade B shipbuilding steel plates to meet customer requirements. We can also provide additional processing services, such as shot blasting, cutting and welding.
Are ABS Grade B shipbuilding plates suitable for low-temperature environments?
No. ABS Grade B only requires impact testing at 0°C. For lower temperatures (–20°C or below), consider ABS Grade D or E.
Can ABS Grade B marine steel plates be welded without preheating?
Yes, ABS Grade B marine steel offers excellent weldability. However, preheating may be required for thicknesses exceeding 50 mm or in low ambient temperatures. Please consult our technical team regarding the Welding Procedure Specification (WPS).
Can ABS shipbuilding steel plates be supplied in normalized conditions?
Yes. Depending on the thickness (typically 40 mm or more), we can supply ABS shipbuilding steel plates in either normalized (N) or thermomechanically controlled process (TMCP) conditions to improve the grain structure.
What is the corrosion resistance of ABS Grade A? How should it be protected?
ABS Grade A is a type of carbon steel. It is not corrosion-resistant in marine environments and is prone to rusting; therefore, it must undergo anti-corrosion treatment.
Surface preparation: Sandblasting to Sa2.5
Coating: Epoxy primer + intermediate coat + topcoat
Ballast tanks: Specialised anti-corrosion coating + cathodic protection
What precautions should be taken when welding ABS Grade A marine steel plates?
1. Selection of welding consumables: Electrodes or welding wire should be selected from marine-grade welding materials that match the strength grade of the base metal.
2. Preheating requirements: For thick plates exceeding 25 mm in thickness, it is recommended that the preheating temperature be maintained between 80–120°C.
3. Carbon equivalent control: With a carbon equivalent (CEV) ≤ 0.40%, the steel exhibits moderate susceptibility to cold cracking.
4. Welding procedure: Strictly control the heat input during welding and avoid excessive heat input per unit length.
What is the difference between ABS Grade A, B, D and E?
The yield strength (≥235 MPa) and tensile strength of ABS Grades A, B, D and E are identical (400–520 MPa).
The key difference lies in their impact temperature:
Grade A at 20°C (room temperature), Grade B at 0°C, Grade D at –20°C and Grade E at –40°C.
