Most structural shapes are governed by an ASTM specification which provides criteria for chemical composition, mechanical properties, and dimensional tolerances. The most common and readily available material specifications are seen below.
ASTM specification, typically starts with an 'A'
Material grade, tpyicallly A, B, C, D
Material type, typically 1-5
Abbreivation: FB, SB, RB, HB, HRB
Standard strength, used for structural applications
High strength, used for structural applications
Abbreivation: W, M, S, HP
Common for most beams (greater than 6" depth)
Common for smaller beams (less than 6" depth)
Abbreivation: TR, TS
Mechanical tubing, common for smaller tubes (less than 4" )
Structural tubing, standard strength (yield stress: 46 ksi)
Structural tubing, high strength (yield stress: 50 ksi)
Abbreivation: RT
Mechanical tubing (AWHR - hot rolled with weld seam)
Mechanical tubing (AWPO - hot rolled with weld seam, pickled and oiled)
Mechanical tubing (DOM - Drawn over a mandrel (weld seam is removed)
Mechanical tubing (seamless)
Abbreivation: PIPE
Common for structural applications (typically cheaper than A53)
Common for pressure applications (furnace-butt welded)
Common for pressure applications (electric resistance welded)
Common for pressure applications (seamless)
