Current and Future Plate Steels for Construction Machinery

The processing, compositions, properties and strengthening mechanisms of the high-strength low-alloy plate grades are summarized. In the as-rolled condition these plate grades can have yield strengths to 80,000 psi. In a quenched and tempered condition both 100,000 psi yield strengths and abrasion resistant grades are available. New improvements in toughness, weldability and formability can be obtained primarily through steel desulfurization and sulfide shape control.