What is the difference between corten A and corten B?

1. Chemical Composition

• Corten A Has a higher phosphorus content than Corten B, improving its corrosion resistance, especially in atmospheric conditions.
  • Typical Composition:
    • Carbon (C): ≤0.12%
    • Phosphorus (P): 0.07-0.15%
    • Sulfur (S): ≤0.030%
    • Silicon (Si): 0.25-0.75%
    • Manganese (Mn): 0.20-0.50%
    • Copper (Cu): 0.25-0.55%
    • Chromium (Cr): 0.30-1.25%
    • Nickel (Ni): ≤0.65%
• Corten B Has a lower phosphorus content, making it better for higher mechanical stress applications.
  • Typical Composition:
    • Carbon (C): ≤0.16%
    • Phosphorus (P): ≤0.035%
    • Sulfur (S): ≤0.030%
    • Silicon (Si): 0.30-0.50%
    • Manganese (Mn): 0.80-1.25%
    • Copper (Cu): 0.20-0.40%
    • Chromium (Cr): 0.40-0.65%
    • Nickel (Ni): ≤0.40%

2. Mechanical Properties

• Corten A: Lower tensile strength and higher ductility, making it ideal for architectural and decorative applications.
  • Yield Strength: 275 MPa
  • Tensile Strength: 410-530 MPa
  • Elongation: 20% (min)
• Corten B: Higher tensile strength and durability, making it suitable for structural applications.
  • Yield Strength: 345 MPa
  • Tensile Strength: 485-610 MPa
  • Elongation: 19% (min)

3. Corrosion Resistance

• Corten A: This material has superior atmospheric corrosion resistance. The higher phosphorus content makes it ideal for outdoor projects exposed to the air.
• Corten B: Slightly less resistant to atmospheric corrosion, but it performs better under conditions involving water or heavy loads.

4. Corten A Applications

• Corten A:
  • Architectural projects
  • Decorative facades and sculptures
  • Thin-walled structures
• Corten B:
  • Bridges
  • Heavy-duty structures
  • Industrial buildings and storage tanks

Key Takeaway:

• Corten A is better for decorative and lightweight uses, prioritizing corrosion resistance.
• Corten B is preferred for load-bearing structures requiring mechanical strength.