Q460 steel belongs to low-alloy high-strength structural steels. The letter Q refers to the yield point, while 460 indicates a yield strength of 460 MPa.
The steel is classified into C, D, and E quality levels.
When customers require guaranteed through-thickness (Z-direction) properties, a Z-grade mark such as Q460CZ15 is added.
As a high-performance structural steel, Q460 features a minimum elongation of 17%, providing both strength and ductility.
Mechanical Characteristics of Q460C / Q460D / Q460E
Yield Strength Requirements
≤16 mm: ≥460 MPa
16–40 mm: ≥440 MPa
40–63 mm: ≥420 MPa
63–80 mm: ≥400 MPa
80–100 mm: ≥400 MPa
100–150 mm: ≥380 MPa
Tensile Strength: 550–720 MPa
Elongation Rate: ≥17%
Impact Toughness: ≥34 J at 0°C
Applications of Q460C / Q460D / Q460E Steel
Q460-series steels are ideal for high-strength structural components operating under low-temperature conditions down to –40°C.
These grades are commonly applied in:
Bridge construction
Shipbuilding
Automobile and heavy vehicle manufacturing
Boilers and pressure vessels
High-pressure pipelines for oil and natural gas
Large-span steel structures and industrial frameworks
