EH40 High Strength Hull Shipbuilding Steel Plate for Arctic & Offshore Projects

  IACS Certified 390 MPa Yield Strength Steel with -40°C Impact Toughness  

Overview

The designation EH40 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.

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 390 MPa and reliable impact toughness at -40°C, making it an ideal choice for constructing high-strength vessels navigating Arctic and polar climate waters.

Definition and Naming Logic

The designation EH40 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 (-40°C).
Second letter (H): Strength grade symbol, denoting it as High Strength steel.
Digits (40): Minimum yield strength identifier, in units of 40kgf/mm²（390 MPa）.

Code Interpretation

Therefore, when treating EH40 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 390 MPa."

Value Proposition

Just like the karat standard for gold, the EH40 specification provides the simplest and most reliable common benchmark for complex international procurement. 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 EH40 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 EH40 Procurement

We provide two procurement options for EH40 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 EH40 Ship Plates and Approved Classification Societies 

EH40 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.

ABS

American Bureau of Shipping

United States

✓ Available
Certified
BV

Bureau Veritas

France

✓ Available
Certified
CCS

China Classification Society

China

✓ Available
Certified
CRS

Croatian Register of Shipping

Croatia

Certified
DNV

Det Norske Veritas  (DNV & GL)

Norway

✓ Available
Certified
IRS

Indian Register of Shipping

India

Certified
KR

Korean Register of Shipping

South Korea

✓ Available
Certified
LR

Lloyd's Register

United Kingdom

✓ Available
Certified
NK

ClassNK

Japan

✓ Available
Certified
PRS

Polish Register of Shipping

Poland

Certified
RINA

Registro Italiano Navale

Italy

✓ Available
Certified
RS

Russian Maritime Register of Shipping

Russia

✓ Available
Certified

Note: In practical applications and certification documents, EH40 is typically prefixed with the specific classification society abbreviation to indicate compliance with that society's specific rules and approval requirements. For example, CCS EH40 (China Classification Society), ABS EH40 (American Bureau of Shipping), BV EH40 (Bureau Veritas), and DNV EH40 (Det Norske Veritas). The exception is the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS), where the steel grade is designated as PC EH40.

Key Advantages of EH40 Steel Grade

Steel Grade
Higher Strength Performance
Arctic Toughness
Marine Durability
Excellent Fabrication Properties
EH40 Marine Steel 390 MPa minimum yield strength provides higher load-bearing capacity for demanding marine applications while maintaining excellent toughness Maintains stable impact toughness at -40°C with enhanced energy absorption (≥41J) for reliable Arctic climate performance Specifically designed for high-stress areas on vessels operating in polar waters and challenging marine environments Superior weldability and formability for efficient shipyard fabrication with controlled carbon equivalent

Chemical Composition & Mechanical Properties of EH40 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 0.015 – 0.05 0.03 – 0.10 ≤0.02 ≤0.08 ≤0.012 ≥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): 0.015-0.05% - Refines grain structure, improves strength.
V (Vanadium): 0.03-0.10% - 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): ≤0.012% - Must be fixed with Al, Nb, V, Ti for grain refinement.
Al (Aluminum): ≥0.015% - Deoxidizer, refines grain structure.

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

Mechanical Properties of EH40 Steel

Thickness (mm) Yield Strength (MPa) Tensile Strength (MPa) Elongation (%) Impact Test Temperature Longitudinal Impact (KV2)/J Transverse Impact (KV2)/J
≤50 mm ≥390 MPa 510 – 660 MPa ≥22% -40°C 41 27
>50~70 mm ≥390 MPa 510 – 660 MPa ≥22% -40°C 48 34
>70~150 mm ≥390 MPa 510 – 660 MPa ≥22% -40°C 55 37

E-Grade Hull Steel: Strength Grade Comparison for Arctic 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 for Arctic service.

Comparison of E-Grade Marine Steel Plates for Arctic Shipbuilding Applications
Steel Grade Impact Test Temperature Yield Strength (Minimum) Typical Application Environment
EH32 -40°C ≥ 315 MPa Primary structures for vessels operating in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions.
EH36 -40°C ≥ 355 MPa Higher strength applications for Arctic vessels requiring increased load capacity.
EH40 -40°C ≥ 390 MPa Key high-stress areas on large Arctic vessels (ice-breaking bows, critical structures).

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

This table compares different quality grades within the 40 Class high-strength hull steel series. All grades share the same minimum yield strength (≥390 MPa) but are designed for different service temperatures and marine environments.

Comparison of 40-Class Steel Quality Grades for Different Marine Service Temperatures
Quality Grade Steel Grade Yield Strength (Minimum) Impact Test Temperature Key Selection Insight
Standard Temperature AH40 ≥ 390 MPa 0°C Base high-strength grade for applications in warmer climates.
Low-Temperature DH40 ≥ 390 MPa -20°C Balanced high-strength and basic low-temperature toughness for cold climate regions.
Enhanced Low-Temperature EH40 ≥ 390 MPa -40°C Primary high-strength steel for Arctic and polar ocean-going vessels. Optimal combination of strength and toughness.
Extreme Low-Temperature FH40 ≥ 390 MPa -60°C For ice-breaking vessels and extreme Arctic offshore structures requiring high strength.

Choose Your Optimal Marine Steel Grade

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

EH40

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

AH40

Standard Marine
Impact Test
0°C ≥41J
Tensile Strength 510-660 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥390 MPa
Key Feature Standard

DH40

Cold Climate
Impact Test
-20°C ≥41J
Tensile Strength 510-660 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥390 MPa
Key Feature -20°C Toughness

FH40

SUPER LOW
Impact Test
-60°C ≥41J
Tensile Strength 510-660 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥390 MPa
Key Feature Extreme Cold

EH36

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

EH32

BASE STRENGTH
Impact Test
-40°C ≥31J
Tensile Strength 450-570 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥315 MPa
Key Feature Base Arctic

Typical Applications of EH40 Marine Steel Plate

Arctic High-Stress Structures
EH40 steel plates are the premium choice for constructing high-stress hull structures of vessels operating in Arctic and polar environments. Their -40°C impact toughness and 390 MPa yield strength provide enhanced load-bearing capacity for ice-breaking bows and critical structural elements under extreme ice pressure.
Icebreaker Components
For icebreaker bows, ice belts, and critical structural components, EH40 provides optimal high-strength low-temperature performance. The 390 MPa yield strength enables reduced plate thickness while maintaining structural integrity, improving vessel efficiency in polar ice-breaking operations.
High-Stress Decks & Bulkheads
For high-stress deck areas and critical bulkheads on polar-class vessels, EH40's enhanced 390 MPa yield strength allows for optimized structural design and weight reduction while maintaining superior low-temperature toughness at -40°C.
Arctic Offshore Critical Structures
Offshore oil and gas platforms in Arctic regions utilize EH40 steel for critical load-bearing sections such as ice-resistant cones and support structures. Its 390 MPa yield strength and -40°C impact toughness ensure stability and integrity under the combined loads of wind, waves, and ice, which is paramount for the safety of these critical infrastructures in polar environments.
Optimized Polar Vessel Design
The higher strength-to-weight ratio of EH40 enables optimized structural design for large Arctic vessels. By using EH40 in critical areas, designers can achieve weight reduction while maintaining safety margins, improving fuel efficiency and payload capacity in polar marine operations.

Available Sizes & Supply Conditions for EH40 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, EN 10025-3, JIS G3106, GB/T 712

Quality Control & Certification for EH40 Marine Steel

Inspection & Quality Control

• Chemical composition analysis and verification with controlled carbon equivalent
• Tensile and elongation testing for 390 MPa yield strength verification
• Charpy V-notch impact testing at -40°C with enhanced energy requirements (≥41J) for Arctic toughness verification
• 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 including 390 MPa yield verification
✓ Classification society approval certificate (ABS, LR, BV, DNV, etc.) for EH40 grade
✓ 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

EH40 is primarily used for high-stress hull structures, ice-breaking bows, critical bulkheads, and marine components of vessels operating in Arctic and polar waters. It is ideal for applications requiring enhanced load-bearing capacity with 390 MPa yield strength and reliable -40°C impact toughness in extreme cold climate regions.

The main difference is yield strength and impact energy requirements. Both grades are impact tested at -40°C, but EH40 provides higher minimum yield strength (390 MPa vs 355 MPa) and requires higher impact energy (≥41J vs ≥34J for EH36). EH40 is used for more demanding high-stress applications in Arctic vessels.

EH40 is impact tested at -40°C (-40°F) in accordance with classification society requirements for Arctic and polar marine service conditions. The minimum impact energy requirement is 41J (longitudinal) for thickness ≤50mm, higher than the 31J requirement for EH32.

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 390 MPa yield strength verification.

Yes, we can supply EH40 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 high-strength 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 390 MPa yield strength testing.

Yes, we specialize in customized solutions. We can supply EH40 plates according to your specified dimensions, thicknesses, and classification society requirements for high-strength 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 shipbuilding steel plates between 10-50mm, and we can basically provide them according to the quantity you need.

The price of EH40 steel plate fluctuates based on raw material costs, thickness, dimensions, purchase volume, and market conditions. 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 EH40), 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.

Information You May Find Relevant

Pricing Range for EH40

Pricing is typically based on a benchmark price, with additional premiums applied for variations in thickness, width, and supplementary processing requirements. As a higher-strength E-grade steel with enhanced -40°C impact requirements (≥41J), EH40 commands a premium over EH36 and EH32 due to more stringent chemical composition control and heat treatment requirements. For specific pricing based on your required specifications and quantity, please contact our sales team.

Request Technical & Commercial Support

Get Professional Support for Your EH40 Project

We supply classification-approved EH40 shipbuilding steel plate with -40°C impact toughness, 390 MPa yield strength, full traceability, flexible inspection options, and coordinated logistics support for high-strength Arctic and polar projects.

📋 Certification & Quality

• Adhere to classification society specifications and corresponding manufacturing standards

• Mill's EN 10204 3.1 certificate included in quality documentation with 390 MPa yield verification

• 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 EH40 Steel Plate Quotation

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