Q345 steel is a low alloy steel material commonly used in motor vehicles, bridges, ships, and construction. Also known as GB/T 1591, the Q signifies the yield point, and the 345 references the strength of yield. As such, it is essential to note that the yield value decreases as the material thickness increases.
Q345 steel can also be replaced with equivalent materials, including A572 Grade 50 USA ASTM, Q355 China GB/T, and SPFC 590 Vietnam/Japanese JIS.
The yield strength of Q345 steel is where the material begins to deform plastically. Before hitting deformation, it will return to its original shape when stress is removed. For Q345, the yield strength is 345 MPa.
Like many in its grade, it will endure elongation before pulling apart, which typically occurs at 20 percent of its initial length. Q345 steel has a tensile strength rating of 470 to 660 MPa, which means that it can handle heavy-duty stress and use before ever failing.
The welding property of Q345 steel may be questioned by end-users, even though the welding properties are primarily affected by the chemical content. However, the production technology has rapidly and significantly improved after many years of research, which means that it is an excellent steel standard for structural purposes.