Quick Answer
ASTM A500 is a widely used standard for carbon steel hollow structural sections (HSS), including square (SHS), rectangular (RHS), and round (CHS) tubes.
These sections are designed for load-bearing structural applications, offering reliable strength, weldability, and dimensional accuracy in construction and infrastructure.
What Is ASTM A500 Hollow Section?
ASTM A500 is a structural steel specification that covers cold-formed welded steel tubing used in structural applications.
Key characteristics:
Material: Carbon steel
Shapes: SHS, RHS, CHS
Application: Load-bearing structures (not fluid transport)
Manufacturing: Cold forming + welding
ASTM A500 Hollow Section Specifications
Chemical Composition (Max %)
|
Grade
|
C
|
Mn
|
P
|
S
|
Cu
|
|
A
|
0.30
|
1.40
|
0.045
|
0.045
|
0.18
|
|
B
|
0.30
|
1.40
|
0.045
|
0.045
|
0.18
|
|
C
|
0.27
|
1.40
|
0.045
|
0.045
|
0.18
|
|
D
|
0.30
|
1.40
|
0.045
|
0.045
|
0.18
|
Mechanical Properties of ASTM A500 Hollow Section
Round HSS
|
Grade
|
Tensile Strength
|
Yield Strength
|
|
A
|
≥45,000 psi (310 MPa)
|
≥33,000 psi (230 MPa)
|
|
B
|
≥58,000 psi (400 MPa)
|
≥42,000 psi (290 MPa)
|
|
C
|
≥62,000 psi (425 MPa)
|
≥46,000 psi (315 MPa)
|
|
D
|
≥58,000 psi (400 MPa)
|
≥36,000 psi (250 MPa)
|
Square / Rectangular HSS
|
Grade
|
Tensile Strength
|
Yield Strength
|
|
A
|
≥45,000 psi
|
≥39,000 psi
|
|
B
|
≥58,000 psi
|
≥46,000 psi
|
|
C
|
≥62,000 psi
|
≥50,000 psi
|
|
D
|
≥58,000 psi
|
≥36,000 psi
|
ASTM A500 Hollow Section Manufacturing Process
ASTM A500 HSS are produced through cold-forming and welding processes, ensuring strength and dimensional consistency:
- Forming
Steel coils are cold-formed into shape (round, square, rectangular)
Welding methods: ERW or SAW
- Weld Integrity Testing
Flattening test ensures weld quality and ductility
No cracking allowed under specified compression ratios
- Surface Treatment
Black paint, oil coating, pre-galvanized, or hot-dip galvanized
- End Finishing
Plain ends, beveled ends, or capped ends for protection
ASTM A500 Grades Overview
|
Grade
|
Yield Strength
|
Typical Use
|
|
Grade A
|
33 ksi
|
Basic structural
|
|
Grade B
|
42 ksi
|
Most common
|
|
Grade C
|
46 ksi
|
High-strength structures
|
|
Grade D
|
36–50 ksi
|
Specialized engineering
|
Grade B is the most widely used due to its balance of strength and cost.
Applications of ASTM A500 Hollow Sections
ASTM A500 HSS are widely used in structural engineering and construction:
Building frames and columns
Bridges and infrastructure
Industrial platforms
Machinery and equipment frames
Towers and steel structures
Preferred in applications requiring high strength, stability, and clean architectural appearance
Why ASTM A500 Is Widely Used
Consistent mechanical performance
Excellent weldability and formability
Wide availability in global markets
Compliance with structural engineering standards
FAQ
Q1: What is ASTM A500 used for?
Structural applications such as buildings, bridges, and steel frameworks.
Q2: What shapes are included in ASTM A500?
Square (SHS), rectangular (RHS), and round (CHS) hollow sections.
Q3: Which ASTM A500 grade is most common?
Grade B, due to its balance of strength and cost.
Q4: Is ASTM A500 pipe used for fluid transport?
No, it is designed for structural load-bearing applications.
Q5: What is the difference between Grade B and Grade C?
Grade C offers higher yield strength and is used in more demanding structures.
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