EH36 High Strength Hull Shipbuilding Steel Plate for Arctic & Offshore Projects

  IACS Certified 355 MPa Yield Strength Steel with -40°C Impact Toughness  

Overview

The designation EH36 originates from the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) system. It is not merely a Chinese steel grade, but a universal specification implemented by classification societies and steel mills worldwide. It is an internationally recognized material specification that ensures global consistency in material performance, certification, and acceptance standards for shipbuilding and offshore engineering, particularly for arctic service.

This steel grade is specifically designed for ship hull structures requiring excellent low-temperature toughness. Its core performance is characterized by a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa and reliable impact toughness at -40°C, making it an ideal choice for constructing vessels navigating very cold to arctic climate waters[citation:2].

Definition and Naming Logic

The designation EH36 originates from the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) Unified Requirements.

Its logical structure is: 1 letter + 1 letter + 2 digits

First letter (E): Quality grade symbol, representing its impact toughness test temperature of -40°C[citation:2].
Second letter (H): Strength grade symbol, denoting it as High Strength steel.
Digits (36): Minimum yield strength identifier, in units of 36kgf/mm²（355 MPa）.

Code Interpretation

Therefore, when treating EH36 as a code, the correct and complete deciphering is:

"A high-strength shipbuilding structural steel requiring impact testing at -40°C, with a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa."

Value Proposition

Just like the karat standard for gold, the EH36 specification provides the simplest and most reliable common benchmark for complex international procurement in arctic conditions. As professional Chinese suppliers, we create our core value by delivering this globally-endorsed quality with optimal cost efficiency and reliable service.

We are a Chinese supplier offering EH36 in spot supply and mill-direct ordering services, with full export service capabilities.

We have served global shipyards and are familiar with classification society inspection processes.

Start Your EH36 Procurement

We provide two procurement options for EH36 steel plates, so you can choose the most cost-effective solution for your project. Backed by competitive prices, strict quality control, and on-time delivery, we make sourcing simple and reliable.

✓ Immediate availability & pricing

✓ Formal quotation in 8 hours

Supply-Available EH36 Ship Plates and Approved Classification Societies 

EH36 steel plates are certified and approved by all major international classification societies, ensuring global acceptance for marine construction projects. The following ranking is in alphabetical order of the classification society abbreviations.

Note: In practical applications and certification documents, EH36 is typically prefixed with the specific classification society abbreviation to indicate compliance with that society's specific rules and approval requirements. For example, CCS EH36 (China Classification Society), ABS EH36 (American Bureau of Shipping), BV EH36 (Bureau Veritas), and DNV EH36 (Det Norske Veritas). The exception is the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS), where the steel grade is designated as PC EH36.

Key Advantages of EH36 Steel Grade

Steel Grade
Balanced Strength Performance
Cold Climate Toughness
Marine Durability
Excellent Fabrication Properties
EH36 Marine Steel 355 MPa minimum yield strength provides optimal balance of strength and toughness for demanding marine and arctic applications Maintains stable impact toughness at -40°C for reliable performance in very cold and arctic climate waters Specifically designed for medium-high strength vessels operating in very cold to arctic waters and challenging marine environments Superior weldability and formability for efficient shipyard fabrication in harsh climates

Chemical Composition & Mechanical Properties of EH36 Steel

Chemical Composition (Typical, %)

C Si Mn P S Cu Cr Ni Nb V Ti Mo N Al
≤0.18 ≤0.50 0.90 – 1.60 ≤0.035 ≤0.035 ≤0.35 ≤0.20 ≤0.40 0.02 – 0.05 0.05 – 0.10 ≤0.02 ≤0.08 - ≥0.015

i Chemical Element Explanations

C (Carbon): ≤0.18% - Influences strength and hardness.
Si (Silicon): ≤0.50% - Increases strength, deoxidizer.
Mn (Manganese): 0.90-1.60% - Enhances strength and toughness, desulfurizer.
P (Phosphorus): ≤0.035% - Harmful element, reduces toughness.
S (Sulfur): ≤0.035% - Harmful element, causes hot shortness.
Cu (Copper): ≤0.35% - Improves corrosion resistance.
Cr (Chromium): ≤0.20% - Improves corrosion resistance and hardness.
Ni (Nickel): ≤0.40% - Enhances toughness and low-temperature properties.
Nb (Niobium): 0.02-0.05% - Refines grain structure, improves strength.
V (Vanadium): 0.05-0.10% - Refines grain structure, improves toughness.
Ti (Titanium): ≤0.02% - Refines grain, fixes carbon and nitrogen.
Mo (Molybdenum): ≤0.08% - Improves high-temperature strength and corrosion resistance.
N (Nitrogen): - (Controlled by production process)
Al (Aluminum): ≥0.015% - Deoxidizer, refines grain structure.

* Typical values according to classification society specifications. Actual limits may vary by approval.

Mechanical Properties of EH36 Steel

Thickness (mm) Yield Strength (MPa) Tensile Strength (MPa) Elongation (%) Impact Test Temperature Longitudinal Impact (KV2)/J Transverse Impact (KV2)/J
≤50 mm ≥355 MPa 490 – 630 MPa ≥21% -40°C 34 24
>50~70 mm ≥355 MPa 490 – 630 MPa ≥21% -40°C 41 27
>70~150 mm ≥355 MPa 490 – 630 MPa ≥21% -40°C 50 34

E-Grade Hull Steel: Strength Grade Comparison for Marine Applications

The following table compares different strength grades within the E-Grade hull steel series (all grades impact tested at -40°C), illustrating available options for increasing load-bearing capacity while maintaining the same -40°C impact toughness.

Comparison of E-Grade Marine Steel Plates for Shipbuilding Applications
Steel Grade Impact Test Temperature Yield Strength (Minimum) Typical Application Environment
EH36 -40°C ≥ 355 MPa Exposed critical structures for all conventional, unrestricted ocean service.
EH32 -40°C ≥ 315 MPa Primary and secondary structures for vessels in cold regions (e.g., North Atlantic).
EH40 -40°C ≥ 390 MPa High-stress zones on mega-container ships, bulk carriers, offshore platforms.

36-Class Hull Steel: Quality Grade Comparison for Different Temperature Requirements

This table compares different quality grades within the 36 Class high-strength hull steel series. All grades share the same minimum yield strength (≥355 MPa) but are designed for different service temperatures and marine environments.[citation:4]

Comparison of 36-Class Steel Quality Grades for Different Marine Service Temperatures
Quality Grade Steel Grade Yield Strength (Minimum) Impact Test Temperature Key Selection Insight
Superior Low-Temperature EH36 ≥ 355 MPa -40°C Primary steel for global ocean-going vessels. Optimal combination of strength and toughness.
Standard Temperature AH36 ≥ 355 MPa 0°C Higher strength than AH32, but still no toughness requirement.
Enhanced Low-Temperature DH36 ≥ 355 MPa -20°C Most cost-effective tough steel. Balanced strength and basic low-temperature toughness.

Choose Your Optimal Marine Steel Grade

Compare key specifications across similar grades. Varying parameters are highlighted for quick decision-making.

EH36

CURRENT
Impact Test
-40°C ≥34J
Tensile Strength 490-630 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥355 MPa
Key Feature Arctic Performance

AH36

Standard Marine
Impact Test
0°C ≥34J
Tensile Strength 490-630 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥355 MPa
Key Feature Standard

DH36

LOW TEMP
Impact Test
-20°C ≥34J
Tensile Strength 490-630 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥355 MPa
Key Feature Cold Climate

FH36

SUPER LOW
Impact Test
-60°C ≥34J
Tensile Strength 490-630 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥355 MPa
Key Feature Extreme Cold

EH32

STANDARD
Impact Test
-40°C ≥31J
Tensile Strength 440-590 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥315 MPa
Key Feature Standard Strength

EH40

HIGH STRENGTH
Impact Test
-40°C ≥41J
Tensile Strength 510-660 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥390 MPa
Key Feature High Strength

Typical Applications of EH36 Marine Steel Plate

High Strength Hull Structures for Arctic Service
EH36 steel plates are the primary choice for constructing the main hull structures of vessels operating in arctic and very cold environments. Their 355 MPa minimum yield strength and guaranteed -40°C impact toughness ensure structural integrity under heavy loads, ice pressure, and extreme low temperatures.[citation:2]
Ice-Class Vessels & Polar Offshore Platforms
For ice-breaking vessels and polar offshore platforms, EH36 provides an optimal balance of strength and exceptional low-temperature toughness. This makes it ideal for critical areas that require reliable performance in arctic service, offering excellent weldability and impact resistance at temperatures as low as -40°C.[citation:2]
Deepwater Offshore Structures
A wide range of deepwater offshore structural components are fabricated from EH36 due to its guaranteed 355 MPa yield strength and -40°C impact toughness. This combination is essential for parts subjected to dynamic stresses and low-temperature exposure in harsh marine conditions, ensuring long-term durability and safety.
LNG Carriers & Cryogenic Cargo Holds
The exceptional low-temperature toughness of EH36 marine steel is critical for the safety of LNG carriers and vessels with cryogenic cargo holds. It prevents brittle fracture in low-temperature environments, making it a reliable material for containment systems and supporting structures exposed to extreme cold.
High-Strength Decks & Bulkheads in Cold Climates
Decks and bulkheads in vessels operating in high latitudes utilize EH36 steel for key structural sections. Its balanced strength and superior toughness at -40°C ensures stability and integrity under the combined loads of cargo, waves, and ice, which is paramount for the safety of these critical structures.[citation:2]

Available Sizes & Supply Conditions for EH36 Steel Plate

Dimensions

Thickness: 6 – 150 mm

Width: Up to 5,300 mm

Length: Up to 18,000 mm

Supply Conditions

Delivery Condition: Normalized (N) / Thermo-Mechanical Control Processed (TMCP) / Hot rolled / Controlled rolling
Standards: ASTM A131[citation:1], EN 10025-3, JIS G3106, GB/T 712

Quality Control & Certification for EH36 Marine Steel

Inspection & Quality Control

• Chemical composition analysis and verification
• Tensile and elongation testing for mechanical properties
• Charpy V-notch impact testing at -40°C for toughness verification[citation:2]
• Ultrasonic testing (UT) for internal quality assessment
• Third-party inspection available (SGS, Bureau Veritas, TÜV, DNV, etc.)

Certification & Documentation

Each shipment includes comprehensive documentation:

✓ EN 10204 3.1 mill test certificate with full test results
✓ Classification society approval certificate (ABS, LR, BV, DNV, etc.)
✓ Heat number traceability for full material history
✓ Optional EN 10204 3.2 certificate available upon request

Why Choose CEHE Steel for Your Marine Steel Needs?

Discover how our expertise, resources, and commitment make us the preferred partner for marine steel solutions worldwide.

Powerful Resource Network and End-to-End Supply Assurance

Through alliances with 7 top-tier Chinese steel mills, we turn your custom steel requirements into reality—backed by classification society-certified inventory that stands ready to resolve rush orders and critical stockouts at a moment's notice.

Resource & Dimensions
Thickness: 6-150mm, Width: up to 5300mm, Length: up to 18000mm
Strategic Inventory
We have reserved a certain amount of CCS, ABS, BV, RINA in stock for you to quickly solve the urgent needs of ship body repair 
Global Logistics
Professional packaging with real-time tracking worldwide.
Supply Chain Control
We provide custom steel plate service with the fastest delivery cycle of up to 15 days.

Comprehensive Quality System and Transparent Traceability

We implement a quality control and traceability system that exceeds standard requirements, ensuring every steel plate we supply is reliable, compliant, and fully documented.

Full Certification
Meets ABS, DNV, GL, LR, BV, CCS, NK, RINA, KR standards.
Stringent Inspection
Third-party inspection support (SGS, BV) with rigorous internal QC.
Complete Traceability
Unique heat number tracking from mill to project.
Quality Standards
EN 10204 3.1/3.2 certificates with every shipment.

Technical Expertise and Comprehensive Project Support

We position ourselves not just as material suppliers but as technical partners, offering complete service from material selection through to final delivery and beyond.

Expert Consultation
Free technical guidance on material selection, welding, fabrication.
Project Follow-up
Immediate response, risk assessment, contract review, production tracking.
Value-Added Services
Export documentation, logistics arrangement, inspection coordination.
Continuous Support
From order confirmation to post-installation.

Proven Experience and Global Trust Since 2009

Since our founding in 2009, we have built deep expertise in marine steel applications and validated our capabilities through successful projects worldwide.

Industry Experience
Focused exclusively on marine steel since 2009
Global Performance
Successfully supplied major shipbuilding and offshore projects worldwide.
Trusted Partner
Long-term relationships with marine plate distributors and manufacturers.
Project Validation
Validated capabilities through successful global projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

EH36 is primarily used for medium-high strength hull structures, decks, bulkheads, and marine components of vessels operating in very cold or arctic waters[citation:2]. It is ideal for applications requiring balanced performance with 355 MPa yield strength and reliable -40°C impact toughness in arctic conditions.

The main difference is yield strength. Both EH32 and EH36 are impact tested at -40°C[citation:2], but EH32 has a minimum yield strength of 315 MPa, while EH36 has a higher minimum yield strength of 355 MPa[citation:1][citation:4]. EH36 provides better load-bearing capacity for applications requiring more strength while maintaining the same arctic temperature toughness.

EH36 is impact tested at -40°C (-40°F) in accordance with classification society requirements for arctic and very cold climate marine service conditions[citation:2], same as EH32 and EH40 but with medium-high strength.

We provide EN 10204 3.1 mill test certificates along with classification society approval certificates for each shipment, including specific documentation for -40°C impact testing and 355 MPa yield strength verification.

Yes, we can supply EH36 plates with certifications from major classification societies including ABS (American Bureau of Shipping), BV (Bureau Veritas), DNV (Det Norske Veritas), LR (Lloyd's Register), CCS (China Classification Society), NK (Nippon Kaiji Kyokai), KR (Korean Register), and RINA. We can work with your designated classification society to meet specific project requirements for arctic applications.

Yes, we can arrange third-party inspections from organizations like SGS, Bureau Veritas, TUV, or Lloyd's Register upon customer request, including verification of -40°C impact test results and 355 MPa yield strength testing.

Yes, we specialize in customized solutions. We can supply EH36 plates according to your specified dimensions, thicknesses, and classification society requirements for arctic applications. We also provide EN 10204 3.2 certificates upon request.

Delivery time for customized orders: Approximately 20 days for hot-rolled plates and 35-55 days for normalized plates, depending on specifications.

We offer flexible MOQ options. For hot-rolled plates, typical lead time is around 20 days. For normalized plates, expect 35-55 days depending on specifications and quantity. We do not have a mandatory requirement for the minimum order quantity of medium-high strength shipbuilding steel plates between 10-50mm, and we can basically provide them according to the quantity you need.

The price of EH36 steel plate fluctuates based on raw material costs, thickness, dimensions, purchase volume, and market conditions. EH36 typically commands a premium over EH32 due to its higher strength specifications and over DH36 due to its superior low-temperature toughness. For the most accurate and competitive real-time quotation, please contact our sales team with your specific requirements (grade, size, quantity, destination port, and any special certifications needed). We provide competitive pricing and respond within 24 hours.

For marine steel plates (including EH36), our business strategy is customization-oriented, supplemented by spot inventory. To be factual, we maintain spot inventory of various materials in our warehouse, though the stock is not comprehensive—typically ranging from 500 to 1,200 tons per month. Given the specific requirements of shipbuilding plates in terms of classification society certifications, dimensions, and specifications, we do not intentionally stockpile inventory for any particular specification. (Our inventory is generated when a customer's customized order falls short of the mill's minimum order quantity, and we supplement the balance to fulfill the order.) If you happen to have a spot requirement, feel free to click here to check our current inventory.→ stock inquiry system.

16. Information You May Find Relevant

Pricing Range for EH36

Pricing is typically based on a benchmark price, with additional premiums applied for variations in thickness, width, and supplementary processing requirements. To illustrate, let's assume a base price "a" (denoted in RMB) applies to thicknesses of 14–30mm and widths of 2000–2500mm: 12mm thickness: a + 50 (thickness premium) 10mm thickness: a + 150 (thickness premium) 8mm thickness: a + 350 (thickness premium) 32–40mm thickness: a + 50 (thickness premium) 42–50mm thickness: a + 100 (thickness premium) + 200 (normalizing surcharge) 50–52mm thickness: a + 150 (thickness premium) + 200 (normalizing surcharge)

17. Request Technical & Commercial Support

Get Professional Support for Your DH36 Project

We supply classification-approved DH36 medium-high strength shipbuilding steel plate with -20°C impact toughness, 355 MPa yield strength, full traceability, flexible inspection options, and coordinated logistics support.

📋 Certification & Quality

• Adhere to classification society specifications and corresponding manufacturing standards

• Mill's EN 10204 3.1 certificate included in quality documentation

• Third-party onsite certification available upon request for customized plates

⚙️ Custom Solutions

• Custom thickness, width, length; widths ≤1600mm can be supplied via split delivery from double-width rolling

• 100% customizable: carbon equivalent, simulated post-weld, Z-direction properties, etc.

• Fastest delivery for hot-rolled custom plates: 10 days

Response Time: We typically respond to all inquiries within 24 hours

📩 Get EH36 Steel Plate Quotation

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