Q420B vs Q460C
These two grades are listed as equivalents of each other: their chemistry windows overlap and they serve the same applications. They are not always identical — check the differences below before substituting, especially in certified designs.
Q420B
Structural & HSLA Steel
Q420B is a 420 MPa yield HSLA steel to GB/T 1591, widely used in Chinese crane, mining and power-transmission construction. Microalloying plus controlled rolling delivers the strength with a weldable, low-carbon analysis.
Standards: DIN S420 class (near) · AISI A572 Gr.60/65 (near) · GB Q420B (GB/T 1591)
Q460C
Structural & HSLA Steel
Q460C is the 460 MPa class of GB/T 1591, the standard high-strength grade for landmark Chinese steel structures — it was the principal grade of the Beijing National Stadium. Quality C guarantees impact toughness at 0 °C.
Standards: DIN S460ML (near) · AISI A572 Gr.65 (near) · GB Q460C (GB/T 1591)
Chemical composition compared (%)
| Element | Q420B | Q460C |
|---|---|---|
| C | ≤0.20 | ≤0.20 |
| Si | ≤0.50 | ≤0.50 |
| Mn | ≤1.70 | ≤1.70 |
| P | ≤0.035 | ≤0.030 |
| S | ≤0.035 | ≤0.030 |
| Nb | 0.015–0.06 | 0.015–0.06 |
| V | 0.02–0.15 | 0.02–0.20 |
Properties compared
| Property | Q420B | Q460C |
|---|---|---|
| Yield strength | ≥420 MPa (≤16 mm) | ≥460 MPa (≤16 mm) |
| Tensile strength | 520–680 MPa | 550–720 MPa |
| Impact | B grade: 34 J at 20 °C | C grade: 34 J at 0 °C |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ | 7.85 g/cm³ |
Sourcing either grade?
Nasteel stocks both families from Shenzhen with EN 10204 3.1 mill certificates by heat number.
Ask for a quotationSee full data sheets: Q420B · Q460C. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.