KWARA STATE UNIVERSITY, MALETE
FACULTY OF ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
CES 822 ASSIGNMENT 6
COMPILED BY
SUBMITTED TO
PROF. A.A. ADEDEJI
Q: Explain the different strength class for classification of steel section.
In structural engineering and construction, steel sections are commonly used for various
applications, such as in the design and fabrication of buildings, bridges, and other structures.
These steel sections come in various shapes and sizes, and they are categorized based on their
mechanical properties, particularly their strength and load-bearing capacities. The classification
of steel sections into different strength classes is important for ensuring that the chosen materials
can safely withstand the expected loads and stresses in a given application.
Strength classes for steel sections are typically defined by their yield strength (also known as the
yield stress) and ultimate tensile strength. Yield strength is the stress at which a material begins
to exhibit plastic deformation, while ultimate tensile strength is the maximum stress a material
can withstand before failure. Different strength classes are used to describe different levels of
material strength.
Here are some commonly used strength classes for classification of steel sections:
1. S235: This is a basic structural steel strength class. Steel sections in this class have a
minimum yield strength of 235 megapascals (MPa). It's suitable for general structural
applications with relatively low loading requirements.
2. S275: Sections in this class have a minimum yield strength of 275 MPa. They offer a
higher level of strength compared to S235 and are often used in more demanding
structural applications.
3. S355: This strength class has a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa. It provides even
greater strength and load-bearing capacity than S275 and is used for applications
requiring higher structural performance.
4. S460: Steel sections in this class have a minimum yield strength of 460 MPa. They are
employed in applications that require substantial strength and load-carrying capabilities,
such as large-span bridges and heavy-duty structures.
5. S690 and higher: These classes represent even higher-strength steels, often used in
specialized applications where exceptional strength and performance are required. They
may be used in projects like offshore structures, high-rise buildings, and advanced
engineering applications.
It's important to note that there are variations within each strength class. The actual yield strength
and tensile strength of a specific steel section may slightly vary based on the manufacturing
process and material properties.
When selecting a steel section for a particular structural application, engineers consider factors
such as the expected loads, environmental conditions, safety factors, and cost-effectiveness. The
appropriate strength class is chosen to ensure that the selected steel section can safely carry the
loads and stresses associated with the intended use.