Overview and Key Features of SM490 steel

SM490 steel is a high-strength structural steel grade specified under the Japanese Industrial Standard JIS G3106. It is primarily used for welded structures such as bridges, buildings, and industrial machinery. With its balanced mechanical properties, SM490 provides excellent strength, weldability, and toughness, making it a preferred material for heavy-duty applications.

The steel typically contains low levels of carbon along with manganese and small amounts of silicon, which contribute to its strength without compromising ductility. The nominal yield strength of SM490 ranges around 325–355 MPa, depending on the thickness, while its tensile strength generally falls between 490 and 610 MPa.

One of SM490's most valuable characteristics is its weldability. It can be welded easily using standard techniques without preheating in most thicknesses, allowing efficient fabrication in the field. This feature is particularly useful for large-scale steel frameworks, cranes, and bridge components that require on-site assembly.

In addition, SM490 demonstrates good impact toughness even at low temperatures, which enhances its performance in cold climates or dynamic load environments.

Thanks to these advantages, SM490 steel has become a widely recognized structural material across Asia and beyond, meeting global demands for reliable, strong, and cost-effective construction steel.

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