HRC SS400 Steel: Properties, Applications & Supply Insights

Stavian Industrial Metal only offers discounts for large orders—specifically, a minimum of 200 tons for steel, 100 tons for aluminum, and 50 tons for copper and zinc.

As one of the most commonly used hot rolled coil steel grades, HRC SS400 offers a balance between strength, workability, and affordability that makes it indispensable across construction, manufacturing, and mechanical engineering sectors. But what exactly is HRC SS400, and why does it consistently appear in procurement specifications and industry standards across Asia? This carbon structural steel stands out thanks to its excellent weldability, decent tensile strength (400–510 MPa), and high flexibility in fabrication processes. Whether used in shipbuilding, automotive frames, or storage tanks, HRC SS400 continues to be a reliable material choice.

Applications of HRC SS400 in Key Industries

Construction and Infrastructure Projects

HRC SS400 plays a pivotal role in the construction industry, especially in structural frameworks, bridges, and high-rise buildings. Its tensile strength of 400–510 MPa and good elongation (≥17%) allow it to bear static and dynamic loads efficiently. The material’s excellent formability enables easy fabrication of beams, angles, and plates used in steel structures and architectural supports. In countries like Vietnam and Japan, HRC SS400 is often specified in government-funded infrastructure projects due to its compliance with JIS G3101 standards and reliability in seismic zones.

So, could HRC SS400 eventually become the standard material for urban expansion in emerging economies?

Manufacturing and Machinery

Manufacturers depend on HRC SS400 for machine frames, chassis, and equipment enclosures. Its stable mechanical properties across various heat treatments allow for consistent machining and durability during long-term operations. Fabricators value its weldability, making it ideal for complex assemblies requiring minimal defect risk. As automation grows, is HRC SS400 ready to meet the evolving requirements of precision machinery?

Automotive and Shipbuilding

In automotive applications, HRC SS400 is employed for structural underframes, reinforcement parts, and wheel discs due to its impact resistance and low yield ratio. Though not used in high-performance cars, it provides economic advantages in budget-friendly or utilitarian vehicles. Meanwhile, shipyards leverage HRC SS400 for flat panels and non-critical hull components where resistance to marine corrosion isn’t a primary requirement.

How can HRC SS400 stay competitive as the marine and automotive sectors shift toward high-strength low-alloy alternatives?

Mechanical Properties of HRC SS400

Strength and Ductility Balance

The mechanical profile of HRC SS400 offers a yield strength of ≥245 MPa and tensile strength between 400–510 MPa, balancing strength with sufficient ductility. Its elongation value of at least 17% makes it more malleable during cold-forming or bending processes without compromising integrity. This combination makes the steel versatile enough for applications where both rigidity and formability are needed.

What happens when industrial applications require a better strength-to-weight ratio than what HRC SS400 offers?

Impact Resistance and Fatigue Life

While not classified as a high-impact alloy, HRC SS400 performs reliably under moderate impact loads. It is often used in non-critical components exposed to vibrations or alternating stress cycles. For example, steel grating, base plates, and equipment supports benefit from its endurance in such conditions. Engineers should, however, assess its performance under prolonged dynamic stress when selecting materials for moving assemblies.

Could fatigue-resistance enhancements push HRC SS400 into high-performance application domains?

Global Standards and Compliance

JIS G3101 and Equivalent Grades

HRC SS400 is defined under the Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) G3101 for general structural steel. International equivalents include ASTM A36 (USA), EN S235JR (Europe), and GB Q235 (China), although minor differences in composition and mechanical tolerance exist. For export or multinational projects, cross-referencing these standards ensures proper substitution without sacrificing performance or regulatory approval.

Is harmonizing these standards globally the key to reducing procurement complexities for multi-national projects?

Mill Test Certification and Quality Assurance

To ensure authenticity, manufacturers like Stavian Industrial Metal provide Mill Test Certificates (MTCs) with each batch of HRC SS400. These certificates detail chemical composition, yield and tensile strength, elongation, and testing methods. Additional quality assurance steps may include ultrasonic testing and surface flatness inspections, especially for clients in critical industries like pressure vessel manufacturing or aerospace ground support.

What are the implications of digitalizing mill certification processes for international traceability?

Forming, Welding, and Surface Treatment Capabilities

Formability in Cold and Hot Processing

HRC SS400 exhibits excellent workability in cold-forming operations like bending, punching, and roll-forming. Its low carbon content (~0.05–0.23%) reduces the risk of cracking or work hardening. In hot-rolled conditions, the material maintains a consistent grain structure conducive to large-scale industrial fabrication. These traits allow custom shapes to be produced with minimal material waste.

Could additive manufacturing soon rival conventional forming methods for low-carbon structural steels like HRC SS400?

Weldability and Post-Weld Performance

Thanks to its low carbon equivalent (typically <0.45%), HRC SS400 can be welded using standard arc, MIG, or TIG welding techniques without pre-heating or post-weld heat treatment in most cases. Its weld joints demonstrate consistent strength and ductility if proper filler materials are used. For large-scale structures such as prefabricated buildings, this reduces on-site assembly time and ensures structural continuity.

How will automation in welding processes enhance the adoption of HRC SS400 in modular construction?

Coating and Surface Protection

Though not inherently corrosion-resistant, HRC SS400 can be galvanized, painted, or coated with anti-rust agents to prolong lifespan, particularly in coastal or industrial environments. Typical zinc coating weights range from 100–275 g/m², depending on exposure severity. For decorative applications, powder coating is used to enhance aesthetic finish and UV resistance.

What new eco-friendly surface treatments are being developed to reduce the environmental impact of coated steel products?

Chemical Composition and Metallurgical Profile

Base Elements in HRC SS400

HRC SS400 primarily consists of iron (Fe), with controlled additions of carbon, manganese, silicon, phosphorus, and sulfur. The carbon content usually remains under 0.23%, ensuring the material retains ductility while achieving moderate strength. Manganese (up to 1.4%) enhances hardenability and toughness, while silicon improves oxidation resistance during hot working. The low levels of phosphorus and sulfur (both under 0.05%) are kept within strict tolerances to avoid brittleness and ensure good weldability.

Can further metallurgical refinement increase HRC SS400’s competitiveness against alloy steels in high-demand industries?

Impact of Composition on Microstructure

Due to its relatively simple composition, HRC SS400 exhibits a ferrite-pearlite microstructure under standard cooling conditions. This microstructure provides a good balance of strength and formability, making it especially useful for sheet and coil formats. During thermo-mechanical processing, controlled rolling can refine grain size, enhancing mechanical properties without the need for alloying.

Could nano-scale control of microstructures through advanced processing redefine what SS400 is capable of?

Supply Chain, Logistics, and Market Trends

Global Supply and Sourcing Hubs

Major producers of HRC SS400 include Japan, South Korea, China, and increasingly, Southeast Asian nations like Vietnam and Indonesia. Stavian Industrial Metal plays a vital role in connecting manufacturers to high-quality SS400 supplies through a robust logistics and warehousing network. Availability in standard thicknesses (1.2 mm to 16 mm) and coil widths (typically 1219 mm and 1500 mm) ensures timely delivery for diverse industries.

With the shift towards regionalized supply chains, will domestic SS400 production reshape global sourcing dynamics?

Pricing Trends and Cost Considerations

HRC SS400 is often priced competitively, making it attractive for bulk procurement. As of early 2025, global HRC prices have ranged between $560–$630 per metric ton depending on origin, grade, and shipping terms. Market volatility is driven by raw material availability, energy costs, and geopolitical dynamics. SS400’s affordability compared to alloy or stainless steels reinforces its widespread use in cost-sensitive projects.

Can strategic purchasing alliances stabilize SS400 procurement costs in the face of raw material price fluctuations?

Inventory Management and Customization

Suppliers like Stavian Industrial Metal offer customized coil slitting, blanking, and just-in-time delivery solutions. This flexibility allows manufacturers to minimize storage costs while adapting quickly to production schedule changes. Digital inventory management systems also help track lot numbers, test data, and delivery times in real time for quality assurance and traceability.

How can digital platforms further enhance supply chain visibility for bulk HRC SS400 consumers?

Environmental Considerations and Sustainability

Environmental Impact of Production

HRC SS400, being a carbon steel, contributes to CO₂ emissions during its production cycle—especially during the iron ore reduction and hot rolling phases. However, integrated steel mills are increasingly adopting electric arc furnace (EAF) technology and low-emission methods to reduce environmental impact. With life-cycle emissions averaging around 1.8–2.1 tons of CO₂ per ton of steel, sustainability remains a key concern for conscious buyers.

Could green hydrogen and carbon capture make SS400 a climate-responsible material in future steelmaking?

Recycling and Circular Economy Role

Steel, including HRC SS400, is 100% recyclable without loss in mechanical properties. In practice, over 90% of structural steel is recycled globally, and many SS400 applications are designed with future recyclability in mind. Its magnetic properties also make it easy to recover during demolition or product end-of-life. This reinforces its value in a circular economy, reducing reliance on virgin ore extraction.

How can product design thinking further embed SS400 into circular construction and manufacturing ecosystems?

Frequently Asked Questions About HRC SS400

  • What industries are best suited for HRC SS400?
    Construction, shipbuilding, automotive, and general manufacturing.
  • Is HRC SS400 equivalent to ASTM A36?
    Yes, they are often considered equivalent, though exact mechanical tolerances may vary slightly.
  • Can HRC SS400 be used in corrosive environments?
    It is not corrosion-resistant on its own and requires surface treatment like galvanization or painting.
  • What is the standard thickness range for HRC SS400?
    Typically from 1.2 mm to 16 mm in coil form, with customized processing available.
  • Does HRC SS400 meet sustainability standards?
    While it is recyclable, the sustainability of HRC SS400 depends on the production method and supplier practices. Environmentally certified sources like those from Stavian Industrial Metal offer more eco-friendly options.
  • Is HRC SS400 suitable for pressure vessels or pipelines?
    No, it lacks the specific mechanical and chemical characteristics required for high-pressure or corrosive environments. Specialized grades like A516 or API 5L are preferred.
  • How to ensure quality when purchasing HRC SS400?
    Always request Mill Test Certificates and choose reputable suppliers with ISO or JIS certifications. Regular audits and third-party inspections can also ensure product conformity.

By understanding the technical attributes, applications, and evolving trends surrounding HRC SS400, stakeholders in engineering, procurement, and manufacturing can make better-informed decisions in a highly competitive materials market.

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Stavian Industrial Metal Joint Stock Company

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  • Headquarters: No.508 Truong Chinh Street, Khuong Thuong Ward, Dong Da District, Hanoi City
  • Hai Phong Branch: 6th Floor, Thanh Dat 1 Tower, No.3 Le Thanh Tong Street, May To Ward, Ngo Quyen District, Hai Phong City
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Website: https://stavianmetal.com

Email: info@stavianmetal.com

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