What designations such as S235JR, DD11 and DX51D+Z mean, the properties of these steels and their applications. An overview of the grades we supply, grouped by standard.
Hot-rolled non-alloy structural steels — the most widely used material for steel structures and engineering components. S denotes structural steel, the number is the minimum yield strength in MPa, and the suffix JR / J0 / J2 indicates the temperature at which the steel has a guaranteed impact energy of 27 J (+20 / 0 / −20 °C).
The most common structural steel. Easy to weld, bend and laser-cut, making it the first choice for steel structures, frames, brackets and general engineering components.
Available in: Hot-rolled sheets, Heavy plates, Chequer plates
Structural steel with a yield strength one and a half times that of S235. It allows thinner, lighter parts with the same load-bearing capacity — load-bearing structures, machine frames and chassis.
Available in: Hot-rolled sheets, Heavy plates
The same strength as S355JR, with toughness guaranteed even at −20 °C. Suitable for dynamically loaded and outdoor structures — bridges, cranes and machinery operating in winter.
Available in: Hot-rolled sheets, Heavy plates
Yield strength applies to thicknesses up to 16 mm; tensile strength to thicknesses of 3–100 mm.
Hot-rolled low-carbon mild steels for bending, pressing and drawing. DD denotes hot-rolled steel for forming; the number indicates the level of formability — the higher it is, the more complex the shape that can be pressed from the sheet.
Basic grade for bending, flanging and simple pressing. A common alternative to S235 where parts require more forming.
Available in: Hot-rolled sheets
Deep-drawing steel with lower strength and higher elongation than DD11. For pressed parts with more complex shapes.
Available in: Hot-rolled sheets
The most formable grade in the DD range — for very deep drawing and demanding pressed parts.
Available in: Hot-rolled sheets
Values apply to thicknesses of 2–11 mm; elongation to thicknesses from 3 mm.
Thermomechanically rolled fine-grain steels. They combine high strength with good bendability, allowing significantly lighter structures. The number is the minimum yield strength in MPa; M denotes thermomechanical rolling and C suitability for cold forming.
Higher strength with good formability. Trailer frames, sections and lighter load-bearing structures.
Available in: Hot-rolled sheets
High-strength steel for beams, chassis and frames in agricultural and construction machinery.
Available in: Hot-rolled sheets
One of the strongest readily available steels for cold forming — crane booms and arms, and lorry bodies. We assess levelling and cut-to-length options individually for this grade.
Available in: Hot-rolled sheets
Thin sheets with a smooth, uniform surface and precise thickness. DC denotes cold-rolled steel for forming; the number indicates the level of formability. We sell cold-rolled sheets but do not cut them on our line.
Basic grade for bending and simple pressing — sheet metal cabinets, furniture and covers.
Available in: Cold-rolled sheets
For drawing and moderately demanding pressed parts.
Available in: Cold-rolled sheets
For deep drawing — automotive parts, appliance housings and cookware.
Available in: Cold-rolled sheets
For very deep drawing and pressed parts with small radii.
Available in: Cold-rolled sheets
Microalloyed steel for exceptionally deep drawing and the most demanding shapes.
Available in: Cold-rolled sheets
Steel for cold forming with a continuously applied zinc coating. DX denotes steel for forming, the number indicates the level of formability, and +Z denotes a pure zinc coating. Zinc thickness is indicated by the coating class (e.g. Z275).
Basic galvanised grade for bending and roll forming — roofing and facade sheets, ventilation ductwork and sections.
Available in: Galvanised sheets
For drawing — pressed parts requiring corrosion protection.
Available in: Galvanised sheets
For deep drawing and more complex galvanised pressed parts.
Available in: Galvanised sheets
The number after Z is the minimum total mass of zinc on both sides of the sheet. A thicker coating protects for longer, especially outdoors.
| Coating | Total zinc | Thickness per side | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Z100 | 100 g/m² | approx. 7 µm | indoors, dry environments |
| Z200 | 200 g/m² | approx. 14 µm | general outdoor use |
| Z275 | 275 g/m² | approx. 20 µm | outdoors, roofing and facades |
The values shown are minimum or range requirements of the relevant standards and are provided for guidance. The binding properties of each delivery are stated in the mill test certificate — an inspection certificate 3.1 to EN 10204, included with every delivery. Unsure which grade to choose? Contact us for advice.
