ASTM A606/A606M-23

Standard Specification for Steel, Sheet and Strip, High-Strength, Low-Alloy, Hot-Rolled and Cold-Rolled, with Improved Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance

ABSTRACT
This specification covers standards for high-strength, low-alloy, hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel sheets and strips cut in lengths or coils for structural and miscellaneous purposes. The material shall come in Types 2 and 4 steels having enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance. The material shall follow specified carbon, manganese, and sulfur contents. Tension test shall be performed and material shall comply with tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation requirements. Edges and surface finish of the materials shall conform to specifications. Guidelines for retests are also given.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers high-strength, low-alloy, cold-rolled sheet and strip in cut lengths or coils, hot-rolled sheet and strip steel in cut lengths or coils with ordered thickness less than 0.230 in. [6.0 mm], and hot-rolled sheet coils (not cut lengths) with ordered thickness 0.230 in. [6.0 mm] and thicker, intended for use in structural and miscellaneous purposes, where savings in weight or added durability are important. These steels have enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance and are supplied in three types or as commercial steel (CS). Type 2 contains 0.20 % minimum copper based on cast or heat analysis (0.18 % minimum Cu for product check). Type 4 and Type 5 contain additional alloying elements and provide a level of corrosion resistance substantially better than that of carbon steels with or without copper addition (Note 1). When properly exposed to the atmosphere, Type 4 and Type 5 steels can be used in the bare (unpainted) condition for many applications. CS is intended for applications that require enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance which do not require a specified strength. CS shall contain the chemical requirements of Type 2, Type 4, or Type 5. CS as contained within this specification is not associated with the requirements of CS that are referenced in other Subcommittee A01.19 on Steel Sheet and Strip specifications.
Note 1: For methods of establishing the atmospheric corrosion resistance of low-alloy steels, see Guide G101.  
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.  
1.3 Welding—In general, the steels listed in this specification are weldable with commonly obtained welding electrodes. When the steel is to be welded, a suitable welding procedure based on its composition should be used, taking into account intended use and service temperatures.
Note 2: For a general discussion of the weldability of steel and carbon equivalents, consult Appendix X3 of A6/A6M.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Apr-2023
• ICS: 77.140.50 - Flat steel products and semi-products
• Technical Committee: A01 - Steel, Stainless Steel and Related Alloys
• Drafting Committee: A01.19 - Steel Sheet and Strip

Relations

• Refers: ASTM A370-24 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A6/A6M-24 - Standard Specification for General Requirements for Rolled Structural Steel Bars, Plates, Shapes, and Sheet Piling
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-24 - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A6/A6M-23 - Standard Specification for General Requirements for Rolled Structural Steel Bars, Plates, Shapes, and Sheet Piling
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM A568/A568M-19a - Standard Specification for Steel, Sheet, Carbon, Structural, and High-Strength, Low-Alloy, Hot-Rolled and Cold-Rolled, General Requirements for
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2019
• Refers: ASTM A370-19 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-16(2018) - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2018
• Refers: ASTM A370-17a - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2017
• Refers: ASTM A6/A6M-17a - Standard Specification for General Requirements for Rolled Structural Steel Bars, Plates, Shapes, and Sheet Piling
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2017
• Refers: ASTM A568/A568M-17a - Standard Specification for Steel, Sheet, Carbon, Structural, and High-Strength, Low-Alloy, Hot-Rolled and Cold-Rolled, General Requirements for
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2017
• Refers: ASTM A568/A568M-17 - Standard Specification for Steel, Sheet, Carbon, Structural, and High-Strength, Low-Alloy, Hot-Rolled and Cold-Rolled, General Requirements for
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2017
• Refers: ASTM A370-17 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2017
• Refers: ASTM A6/A6M-16a - Standard Specification for General Requirements for Rolled Structural Steel Bars, Plates, Shapes, and Sheet Piling
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2016
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-16 - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2016
• Refers: ASTM A6/A6M-16 - Standard Specification for General Requirements for Rolled Structural Steel Bars, Plates, Shapes, and Sheet Piling
• Effective Date: 01-May-2016

Overview

ASTM A606/A606M-23 is the standard specification developed by ASTM International that covers high-strength, low-alloy steel sheet and strip, both hot-rolled and cold-rolled, with improved atmospheric corrosion resistance. This specification applies to steel supplied in cut lengths or coils and is widely used for structural and miscellaneous applications where weight savings or enhanced durability are required. It sets forth requirements for steel types, chemical composition, mechanical properties, surface finish, and guidelines for ordering and testing, ensuring product consistency and reliable long-term performance.

Key Topics

• Product Types: The standard includes hot-rolled sheet and strip (less than 0.230 in. [6.0 mm] thick), hot-rolled sheet coils (0.230 in. [6.0 mm] thick and above), and cold-rolled sheet and strip, in both cut lengths and coil form.
• Steel Types: Covered materials include Type 2, Type 4, and Type 5 steels, as well as commercial steel (CS) - each with defined copper and alloying content to enhance corrosion resistance.
• Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance: Type 2 (minimum copper), Type 4, and Type 5 (with additional alloying elements) are specifically formulated to withstand atmospheric conditions, especially when used uncoated in structural applications.
• Chemical & Mechanical Requirements: The specification outlines maximum levels for carbon, manganese, sulfur, and, for Type 5, elements like nickel, chromium, silicon, titanium, vanadium, and niobium. Mechanical property requirements (tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation) differ for hot-rolled and cold-rolled products.
• Weldability: Steels compliant with this standard are generally weldable with commonly available welding electrodes. Welding procedures should be tailored to the steel’s composition and intended use.
• Surface Finish & Edges: Requirements for mill, cut, and oiled or dry finishes are specified, along with recommendations for edge type and quality.
• Testing & Certification: Tension testing is mandatory to ensure strength and elongation requirements are met. The standard sets protocols for the location and orientation of test samples, retesting, and reporting for compliance and traceability.
• Ordering Guidelines: The standard provides a checklist for essential order information, such as grade, type, dimensions, finish, and any special requirements.

Applications

ASTM A606/A606M-23 steel is essential in industries where high-strength, low-alloy steel with atmospheric corrosion resistance is needed. Key applications include:

• Construction & Infrastructure:
  • Building facades, architectural features, and structural components subjected to the elements
  • Bridges, walkways, and guardrails
• Transportation:
  • Truck frames, railcar components, and trailer structures requiring durability and resistance to weather
• Agricultural Equipment:
  • Machinery and structures exposed to outdoor environments
• Utility Structures:
  • Poles, transmission towers, fencing, and sign supports

The specification’s flexibility allows for the selection of material conditions (hot-rolled/cold-rolled, oiled/dry) and grades to meet a range of performance criteria, including availability of improved formability and impact toughness for demanding service conditions.

Related Standards

• ASTM A6/A6M: General requirements for rolled structural steel products
• ASTM A109/A109M: Cold-rolled carbon steel strip specification
• ASTM A370: Mechanical testing methods for steel products
• ASTM A568/A568M: General requirements for carbon and high-strength, low-alloy steel sheet
• ASTM A635/A635M: Hot-rolled, heavy-thickness steel coils requirements
• ASTM A749/A749M: Hot-rolled high-strength, low-alloy steel strip
• ASTM G101: Guide for estimating atmospheric corrosion resistance of low-alloy steels

These related ASTM standards provide comprehensive guidance for specification, testing, and verification, supporting the consistent selection and application of high-strength, low-alloy steel sheet and strip materials in demanding structural contexts.

Keywords: ASTM A606, high-strength low-alloy steel, corrosion-resistant steel, hot-rolled steel, cold-rolled steel, steel sheet, steel strip, structural steel, steel standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: A606/A606M − 23
Standard Specification for
Steel, Sheet and Strip, High-Strength, Low-Alloy, Hot-Rolled
and Cold-Rolled, with Improved Atmospheric Corrosion
Resistance
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A606/A606M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* 1.3 Welding—In general, the steels listed in this specifica-
tion are weldable with commonly obtained welding electrodes.
1.1 This specification covers high-strength, low-alloy, cold-
When the steel is to be welded, a suitable welding procedure
rolled sheet and strip in cut lengths or coils, hot-rolled sheet
based on its composition should be used, taking into account
and strip steel in cut lengths or coils with ordered thickness less
intended use and service temperatures.
than 0.230 in. [6.0 mm], and hot-rolled sheet coils (not cut
lengths) with ordered thickness 0.230 in. [6.0 mm] and thicker, NOTE 2—For a general discussion of the weldability of steel and carbon
equivalents, consult Appendix X3 of A6/A6M.
intended for use in structural and miscellaneous purposes,
where savings in weight or added durability are important.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
These steels have enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
and are supplied in three types or as commercial steel (CS).
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
Type 2 contains 0.20 % minimum copper based on cast or heat
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
analysis (0.18 % minimum Cu for product check). Type 4 and
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Type 5 contain additional alloying elements and provide a level
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
of corrosion resistance substantially better than that of carbon
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
steels with or without copper addition (Note 1). When properly
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
exposed to the atmosphere, Type 4 and Type 5 steels can be
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
used in the bare (unpainted) condition for many applications.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
CS is intended for applications that require enhanced atmo-
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
spheric corrosion resistance which do not require a specified
2. Referenced Documents
strength. CS shall contain the chemical requirements of Type 2,
Type 4, or Type 5. CS as contained within this specification is
2.1 ASTM Standards:
not associated with the requirements of CS that are referenced
A6/A6M Specification for General Requirements for Rolled
in other Subcommittee A01.19 on Steel Sheet and Strip
Structural Steel Bars, Plates, Shapes, and Sheet Piling
specifications.
A109/A109M Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25
Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
NOTE 1—For methods of establishing the atmospheric corrosion resis-
A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing
tance of low-alloy steels, see Guide G101.
of Steel Products
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
A568/A568M Specification for Steel, Sheet, Carbon,
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
Structural, and High-Strength, Low-Alloy, Hot-Rolled and
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
Cold-Rolled, General Requirements for
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
A635/A635M Specification for Steel, Sheet and Strip,
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
Heavy-Thickness Coils, Hot-Rolled, Alloy, Carbon,
with the standard.
Structural, High-Strength Low-Alloy, and High-Strength
Low-Alloy with Improved Formability, General Require-
ments for
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel,
Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
A01.19 on Steel Sheet and Strip. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved May 1, 2023. Published June 2023. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as A606/A606M – 18. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/A0606_A0606M-23. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
A606/A606M − 23
A749/A749M Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon and 4.2.5 Impact toughness requirements at a specified test
High-Strength, Low-Alloy, Hot-Rolled, General Require- temperature, if required.
ments for 4.2.6 Other special requirements, if any.
G101 Guide for Estimating the Atmospheric Corrosion Re-
NOTE 4—A typical ordering description is as follows: “ASTM
sistance of Low-Alloy Steels
A606–XX, Grade 50, Type 4 high-strength low-alloy hot-rolled sheet, dry,
mill edge 0.106 by 48 by 96 in. for truck frame side members.” Or,
“ASTM A606M–XX, Grade 345, Type 5 high-strength low-alloy hot-
3. General Requirements for Delivery
rolled sheet, dry, mill edge, 2.7 mm by 1220 mm by coil for truck frame
3.1 Cold-rolled sheet furnished under this specification shall
side members.”
conform to the applicable general requirements of the current
5. Materials and Manufacture
edition of Specification A568/A568M and cold rolled strip
shall conform to the dimensional tolerance tables of the current
5.1 Condition—The material shall be furnished hot-rolled or
edition of Specification A109/A109M, unless otherwise pro-
cold-rolled as specified on the purchase order.
vided herein.
5.2 Heat Treatment—Unless otherwise specified, Type 2 and
3.2 Hot-rolled sheet furnished under this specification shall
Type 4 steels shall be furnished as hot-rolled. When hot-rolled
conform to the applicable general requirements of the current
annealed or hot-rolled normalized material is required, it shall
edition of Specifications A568/A568M and A635/A635M, and
be specified on the purchase order.
hot-rolled strip shall conform to the dimensional requirements
5.2.1 For Type 5, although the recommended maximum hot
of the current edition of Specification A749/A749M, unless
rolling temperature is 2100 °F [1150 °C], the actual tempera-
otherwise provided herein.
ture selected is at the discretion of the producer.
5.2.2 Type 5 is normalized by heating to 1600 to 1700 °F
4. Ordering Information
[870 to 925 °C] and then cooled in still air. The yield strength
of Type 5 is increased by precipitation hardening at 1000 to
4.1 Orders for material under this specification shall include
1050 °F [535 to 565 °C] for 20 to 60 min, depending on the
the following information, as required, to describe adequately
amount of strength increase desired by the producer.
the desired material:
4.1.1 ASTM specification number and date of issue, and
6. Chemical Composition
type,
6.1 The maximum limits of carbon, manganese, and sulfur
4.1.2 Name of material (high-strength low-alloy hot-rolled
shall be as prescribed in Table 1, unless otherwise agreed upon
sheet or strip or high-strength low-alloy cold-rolled sheet or
between the manufacturer and the purchaser.
strip),
4.1.2.1 Hot-rolled sheet shall either be CS or Grade 50
6.2 The manufacturer shall use alloying elements, such as
(Grade 50 shall be supplied if not specified).
chromium, nickel, copper, and phosphorus, combined with the
4.1.2.2 Cold-rolled sheet shall either be CS or Grade 45
carbon, manganese, and sulfur within the limits prescribed in
(Grade 45 shall be supplied if not specified).
4.1.3 Condition (specify oiled or dry, as required),
TABLE 1 Chemical Requirements
4.1.4 Edges (must be specified for hot-rolled sheet or strip)
Composition, max, %; ranges and minimum
(see 8.1),
excepted
4.1.5 Finish—Cold-rolled only (indicate exposed (E) or
Type of A606 Steel
Cast or Heat Product Check,
unexposed (U). Matte (dull) finish will be supplied unless
(Formerly Ladle) or Verification
Analysis Analysis
otherwise specified), and
B
Type 2 and Type 4
4.1.6 Dimensions (thickness, width, and whether cut lengths
A
Carbon 0.22 0.26
or coils).
Manganese 1.25 1.30
Sulfur 0.04 0.06
NOTE 3—Not all producers are capable of meeting all of the limitations
Copper 0.20 min 0.18 min
of the thickness tolerance tables in Specification A568/A568M. The
Type 5
purchaser should contact the producer regarding possible limitations prior
Carbon 0.09 0.12
to placing an order.
Manganese 0.70–0.95 0.66–1.00
Phosphorus 0.025 0.030
4.2 The purchaser has the option to specify additional
Sulfur 0.010 0.015
requirements, including but are not limited, to the following:
Silicon 0.40 0.45
Nickel 0.52–0.76 0.50–0.79
4.2.1 Coil size (must include inside diameter, outside
Chromium 0.30 0.34
diameter, and maximum weight),
Copper 0.65–0.98 0.63–1.00
4.2.2 Application (show part identification and description), Titanium 0.15 0.16
Vanadium 0.15 0.16
4.2.3 Cast or heat (formerly ladle) analysis and mechanical
Niobium 0.08 0.09
properties report (if required) (see 10.1), and
A
For compositions with a maximum carbon content of 0.15 % on heat or cast
4.2.4 When the purchaser requires thickness tolerances for
analysis, the maximum limit for manganese on heat or cast analysis may be
⁄8 in. [10 mm] minimum edge distance (see Supplementary increased to 1.40 % (with product analysis limits of 0.19 % carbon and 1.45 %
manganese).
Requirement in Specifications A568/A568M and A635/
B
The addition of other alloying elements to obtain the required atmospheric
A635M), this requirement shall be specified in the purchase
corrosion resistance is at the discretion of the manufacturer for Type 4.
order or contract.
A606/A606M − 23
TABLE 3 Tensile Requirements for Cold-Rolled Grade 45 Material
Table 1 to satisfy the mechanical properties prescribed in Table
2 or Table 3. As indicated in 1.1, these steels have enhanced Cut Lengths and Coils
atmosph
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: A606/A606M − 18 A606/A606M − 23
Standard Specification for
Steel, Sheet and Strip, High-Strength, Low-Alloy, Hot-Rolled
and Cold-Rolled, with Improved Atmospheric Corrosion
Resistance
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A606/A606M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope*
1.1 This specification covers high-strength, low-alloy, hot- and cold-rolled sheet and strip in cut lengths or coils, hot-rolled sheet
and strip steel in cut lengths or coils with ordered thickness less than 0.230 in. [6.0 mm], and hot-rolled sheet coils (not cut lengths)
with ordered thickness 0.230 in. [6.0 mm] and thicker, intended for use in structural and miscellaneous purposes, where savings
in weight or added durability are important. These steels have enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance and are supplied in three
types: types or as commercial steel (CS). Type 2 contains 0.20 % minimum copper based on cast or heat analysis (0.18 % minimum
Cu for product check). Type 4 and Type 5 containscontain additional alloying elements and providesprovide a level of corrosion
resistance substantially better than that of carbon steels with or without copper addition (Note 1). When properly exposed to the
atmosphere, Type 4 and Type 5 steels can be used in the bare (unpainted) condition for many applications. CS is intended for
applications that require enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance which do not require a specified strength. CS shall contain the
chemical requirements of Type 2, Type 4, or Type 5. CS as contained within this specification is not associated with the
requirements of CS that are referenced in other Subcommittee A01.19 on Steel Sheet and Strip specifications.
NOTE 1—For methods of establishing the atmospheric corrosion resistance of low-alloy steels, see Guide G101.
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each
system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the
two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.
1.3 Welding—In general, the steels listed in this specification are weldable with commonly obtained welding electrodes. When the
steel is to be welded, a suitable welding procedure based on its composition should be used, taking into account intended use and
service temperatures.
NOTE 2—For a general discussion of the weldability of steel and carbon equivalents, consult Appendix X3 of A6/A6M.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel, Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee A01.19
on Steel Sheet and Strip.
Current edition approved March 1, 2018May 1, 2023. Published March 2018June 2023. Originally approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 20152018 as
A606/A606M – 15.A606/A606M – 18. DOI: 10.1520/A0606_A0606M-18. 10.1520/A0606_A0606M-23.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
A606/A606M − 23
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A6/A6M Specification for General Requirements for Rolled Structural Steel Bars, Plates, Shapes, and Sheet Piling
A109/A109M Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
A568/A568M Specification for Steel, Sheet, Carbon, Structural, and High-Strength, Low-Alloy, Hot-Rolled and Cold-Rolled,
General Requirements for
A635/A635M Specification for Steel, Sheet and Strip, Heavy-Thickness Coils, Hot-Rolled, Alloy, Carbon, Structural,
High-Strength Low-Alloy, and High-Strength Low-Alloy with Improved Formability, General Requirements for
A749/A749M Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon and High-Strength, Low-Alloy, Hot-Rolled, General Requirements for
G101 Guide for Estimating the Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance of Low-Alloy Steels
3. General Requirements for Delivery
3.1 Material Cold-rolled sheet furnished under this specification shall conform to the applicable general requirements of the
current edition of Specification A568/A568M and cold rolled strip shall conform to the dimensional tolerance tables of the current
edition of Specification A109/A109M, unless otherwise provided herein.
3.2 Hot-rolled sheet furnished under this specification shall conform to the applicable general requirements of the current edition
of Specifications A568/A568M and A635/A635M, and hot-rolled strip shall conform to the dimensional requirements of the
current edition of Specification A749/A749M, unless otherwise provided herein.
4. Ordering Information
4.1 Orders for material under this specification shall include the following information, as required, to describe adequately the
desired material:
4.1.1 ASTM specification number and date of issue, and type,
4.1.2 Name of material (high-strength low-alloy hot-rolled sheet or strip or high-strength low-alloy cold-rolled sheet or strip),
4.1.2.1 Hot rolled Hot-rolled sheet shall either be CS or Grade 50 (Grade 50 shall be supplied if not specified).
4.1.2.2 Cold rolled Cold-rolled sheet shall either be CS or Grade 45 (Grade 45 shall be supplied if not specified).
4.1.3 Condition (specify oiled or dry, as required),
4.1.4 Edges (must be specified for hot-rolled sheet or strip) (see 8.1),
4.1.5 Finish—Cold-rolled only (indicate exposed (E) or unexposed (U). Matte (dull) finish will be supplied unless otherwise
specified), and
4.1.6 Dimensions (thickness, width, and whether cut lengths or coils).
NOTE 3—Not all producers are capable of meeting all of the limitations of the thickness tolerance tables in Specification A568/A568M. The purchaser
should contact the producer regarding possible limitations prior to placing an order.
4.2 The purchaser has the option to specify additional requirements, including but are not limited, to the following:
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
A606/A606M − 23
4.2.1 Coil size (must include inside diameter, outside diameter, and maximum weight),
4.2.2 Application (show part identification and description),
4.2.3 Cast or heat (formerly ladle) analysis and mechanical properties report (if required) (see 10.1), and
4.2.4 When the purchaser requires thickness tolerances for ⁄8 in. [10 mm] minimum edge distance (see Supplementary
Requirement in SpecificationSpecifications A568/A568M and A635/A635M), this requirement shall be specified in the purchase
order or contract.
4.2.5 Impact toughness requirements at a specified test temperature, if required.
4.2.6 Other special requirements, if any.
NOTE 4—A typical ordering description is as follows: “ASTM A606–XX, Grade 50, Type 4 high-strength low-alloy hot-rolled sheet, dry, mill edge 0.106
by 48 by 96 in. for truck frame side members.” Or, “ASTM A606M–XX, Grade 345, Type 5 high-strength low-alloy hot-rolled sheet, dry, mill edge,
2.72.7 mm by 1220 mm by coil for truck frame side members.”
5. Materials and Manufacture
5.1 Condition—The material shall be furnished hot-rolled or cold-rolled as specified on the purchase order.
5.2 Heat Treatment—Unless otherwise specified, Type 2 and Type 4 steels shall be furnished as hot-rolled. When hot-rolled
annealed or hot-rolled normalized material is required, it shall be specified on the purchase order.
5.2.1 For Type 5, although the recommended maximum hot rolling temperature is 2100°F [1150°C],2100 °F [1150 °C], the actual
temperature selected is at the discretion of the producer.
5.2.2 Type 5 is normalized by heating to 1600 to 1700°F1700 °F [870 to 925°C]925 °C] and then cooled in still air. The yield
strength of Type 5 is increased by precipitation hardening at 1000 to 1050°F1050 °F [535 to 565°C]565 °C] for 20 to 60 min,
depending on the amount of strength increase desired by the producer.
6. Chemical Composition
6.1 The maximum limits of carbon, manganese, and sulfur shall be as prescribed in Table 1, unless otherwise agreed upon between
the manufacturer and the purchaser.
6.2 The manufacturer shall use alloying elements, such as chromium, nickel, copper, and phosphorus, combined with the carbon,
manganese, and sulfur within the limits prescribed in Table 1 to satisfy the mechanical properties prescribed in Table 2 or Table
3. As indicated in 1.1, these steels have enhanced atmospheric corrosion resistance and are supplied in three types: as: Type 2, Type
4, and Type 5. Type 5, and CS. When requested, the producer shall supply acceptable evidence of corrosion resistance to the
purchaser.
6.2.1 For Type 2 steel, confirmation of the minimum copper content requirement of 1.1 shall be sufficient evidence of corrosion
resistance.
6.2.2 For Type 4 and Type 5 steels, the basis for this evidence can be a corrosion-resistance index calculated from the chemical
composition of the steel in accordance with Guide G101. To comply with Specification A606, Type 4 or Type 5 steel shall have
a minimum corrosion-resistance index of 6.0, based upon Guide G101 (see Note 5).
NOTE 5—The user is cautioned that the Guide G101 predictive equation for calculation of an atmospheric corrosion index has been verified only for the
composition limits stated in that guide. The composition of Type 4 or Type 5 steels determines which calculation procedure (Larabee-Coburn or Townsend
methods) should be used to obtain a minimum index of 6.0 in accordance with Guide G101. The Larabee-Coburn equation of 6.3.1.1 limits the amount
of copper to 0.51 % max. Type 5 steels exceed this limit and some Type 4 compositions may contain more than 0.51 % copper, requiring use of the
Townsend method of Section 6.3.2.
6.2.3 Material ordered as CS shall conform to the chemical requirements specified in Table 1 for Typ
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