Are ASME SA36 and ASTM A36 steel plates the same material?

Both ASME SA36 and ASTM A36 represent the same type of steel, with almost identical specifications and chemical composition. The main difference between them is that SA36 is a standard published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), while A36 is a standard published by the American Society for Materials and Testing (ASTM). Therefore, the main similarities and differences between the two are limited to the standards issuing bodies, and there are no significant differences in practical applications and material properties.

ASME SA36 and ASTM A36 steel plates are essentially identical. Their chemical composition, mechanical properties and other key characteristics are almost identical. The main difference is that the standards publisher:

1. ASME SA36:
- Published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).
ASME SA36 is commonly used in applications such as pressure vessels and boilers and complies with ASME pressure vessel codes.

2. ASTM A36:
- Published by the American Society for Materials and Testing (ASTM).
ASTM A36 is widely used in structural parts, construction and general purpose steel components, and is one of the most common carbon structural steels.

In summary, although there are some minor differences in names and published standards, in practical application, ASME SA36 and ASTM A36 are considered equivalent and are often used interchangeably.