FH36 High Strength Hull Shipbuilding Steel Plate for Marine & Offshore Projects

  IACS Certified 355 MPa Yield Strength Steel with -60°C Impact Toughness  

Overview

The designation FH36 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 strength performance in extreme cold temperature conditions. Its core performance is characterized by a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa and reliable impact toughness at -60°C, making it an ideal choice for constructing vessels navigating Arctic and Antarctic waters.

Definition and Naming Logic

The designation FH36 originates from the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) Unified Requirements.

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

First letter (F): Quality grade symbol, representing its impact toughness test temperature at -60°C.
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 FH36 as a code, the correct and complete deciphering is:

"A high-strength shipbuilding structural steel requiring impact testing at -60°C, with a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa."

Value Proposition

Just like the karat standard for gold, the FH36 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 FH36 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 FH36 Procurement

We provide two procurement options for FH36 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 FH36 Ship Plates and Approved Classification Societies 

FH36 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, FH36 is typically prefixed with the specific classification society abbreviation to indicate compliance with that society's specific rules and approval requirements. For example, CCS FH36 (China Classification Society), ABS FH36 (American Bureau of Shipping), BV FH36 (Bureau Veritas), and DNV FH36 (Det Norske Veritas). The exception is the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS), where the steel grade is designated as PC FH36.

Key Advantages of FH36 Steel Grade

Steel Grade
Balanced Strength Performance
Extreme Cold Toughness
Polar Marine Durability
Excellent Fabrication Properties
FH36 Marine Steel 355 MPa minimum yield strength provides optimal balance of strength and toughness for demanding polar marine applications Maintains stable impact toughness at -60°C for reliable extreme cold temperature performance Specifically designed for ice-breaking vessels and structures operating in Arctic and Antarctic marine environments Superior weldability and formability for efficient shipyard fabrication even in extreme conditions

Chemical Composition & Mechanical Properties of FH36 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 FH36 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% -60°C 34 24
>50~70 mm ≥355 MPa 490 – 630 MPa ≥21% -60°C 41 27
>70~150 mm ≥355 MPa 490 – 630 MPa ≥21% -60°C 50 34

F-Grade Hull Steel: Strength Grade Comparison for Polar Marine Applications

The following table compares different strength grades within the F-Grade hull steel series (all grades impact tested at -60°C), illustrating available options for increasing load-bearing capacity while maintaining the same -60°C impact toughness.

Comparison of F-Grade Marine Steel Plates for Ice-Class Shipbuilding Applications
Steel Grade Impact Test Temperature Yield Strength (Minimum) Typical Application Environment
FH36 -60°C ≥ 355 MPa Primary structures for icebreakers and vessels in Arctic/Antarctic waters; most cost-effective polar high-strength option.
FH32 -60°C ≥ 315 MPa Secondary structures of polar vessels; ice-strengthened areas requiring good cold resistance.
FH40 -60°C ≥ 390 MPa Critical high-stress areas on ice-breaking vessels (e.g., ice belt, bow sections).

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.

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
Standard Temperature AH36 ≥ 355 MPa 0°C Most cost-effective high-strength steel for temperate and tropical waters.
Low-Temperature DH36 ≥ 355 MPa -20°C Basic low-temperature toughness for cold climate service.
Enhanced Low-Temperature EH36 ≥ 355 MPa -40°C Primary steel for global ocean-going vessels.
 Extreme Cold Temperature FH36 ≥ 355 MPa -60°C The ultimate choice for polar class vessels. Optimal combination of extreme cold toughness and high strength.

Choose Your Optimal Marine Steel Grade

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

FH36

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

EH36

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

DH36

Low-Temperature
Impact Test
-20°C ≥34J
Tensile Strength 490-630 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥355 MPa
Key Feature Balanced Performance

AH36

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

DH32

STANDARD
Impact Test
-20°C ≥31J
Tensile Strength 450-570 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥315 MPa
Key Feature Standard Strength

DH40

HIGH STRENGTH
Impact Test
-20°C ≥41J
Tensile Strength 510-660 MPa
Yield Strength (Min) ≥390 MPa
Key Feature High Strength

Typical Applications of FH36 Marine Steel Plate

Arctic & Polar Hull Structures
FH36 steel plates are the **essential material** for constructing the **main hull and critical structures** of vessels designed for **Arctic and Antarctic operations**. Their **355 MPa minimum yield strength combined with -60°C impact toughness** ensures unparalleled structural integrity under extreme ice loads and the most severe低温 conditions.
LNG Carrier Containment Systems
For the **containment systems and supporting structures of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) carriers**, FH36 is critical. Its **exceptional toughness at -60°C** is necessary to withstand the **cryogenic temperatures** of LNG cargo (-162°C) and prevent brittle fracture in the surrounding steelwork.
Polar Research & Specialized Vessels
**Icebreakers, polar research ships, and other specialized vessels** operating in permanently frozen seas rely on FH36 for critical components. Its **guaranteed -60°C impact toughness** is a fundamental safety requirement, ensuring the hull and machinery can endure **impact loads from ice** and the extreme thermal shocks of polar environments.
Arctic Offshore Platforms & Structures
**Fixed and floating offshore platforms** in the Arctic Circle are subjected to the planet's most punishing conditions. FH36 steel is used for their **primary load-bearing structures**, where its **superior low-temperature toughness** is non-negotiable for maintaining integrity against ice floes, icebergs, and temperatures plummeting below -50°C.
Cryogenic Pressure Vessels & Storage
Beyond shipbuilding, FH36 is specified for **land-based and offshore cryogenic pressure vessels and storage tanks** that operate in or service极寒 environments. Its **guaranteed performance at -60°C** provides a critical safety margin for containing liquefied gases and other materials at extremely low temperatures.

Available Sizes & Supply Conditions for FH36 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 FH36 Marine Steel

Inspection & Quality Control

• Chemical composition analysis and verification
• Tensile and elongation testing for mechanical properties
• Charpy V-notch impact testing at -60°C for 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
✓ 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

FH36 is used for high-strength hull structures, decks, bulkheads, and critical marine components of vessels operating in **extreme cold or polar waters**. It is the optimal choice for applications requiring 355 MPa yield strength combined with exceptional **-60°C impact toughness**, essential for LNG carriers, icebreakers, and Arctic offshore structures.

The main difference is the **impact test temperature**. Both have a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa, but EH36 is tested at **-40°C**, while FH36 is tested at the much lower temperature of **-60°C**. FH36 offers superior toughness for the most severe低温 environments, such as polar operations and LNG containment.

FH36 is impact tested at **-60°C (-76°F)**. This is the lowest standard test temperature for F-grade marine steels, certifying its exceptional resistance to brittle fracture in extreme arctic, Antarctic, and cryogenic service conditions.

We provide EN 10204 3.1 mill test certificates along with classification society approval certificates for each shipment, including specific documentation for **-60°C impact testing** and 355 MPa yield strength verification, which is critical for polar and cryogenic applications.

Yes, we can supply FH36 plates with certifications from all major classification societies including ABS, BV, DNV, LR, CCS, NK, KR, and RINA. We are experienced in meeting the stringent requirements for F-grade steels used in polar and LNG carrier projects and can work with your designated society.

Yes, we can arrange third-party inspections from organizations like SGS, Bureau Veritas, TUV, or Lloyd's Register upon customer request. This is particularly important for FH36 to independently verify the critical **-60°C impact test results** and mechanical properties for high-stakes polar applications.

Yes, we specialize in customized solutions for high-grade steels. We can supply FH36 plates to your exact dimensions, thicknesses, and classification society requirements for polar and cryogenic applications. EN 10204 3.2 certificates are available upon request.

Delivery time for customized orders: Approximately 20 days for hot-rolled plates and 35-55 days for normalized plates, depending on the stringent specifications required for F-grade steel.

We offer flexible MOQ options for FH36. Typical lead time is around 20 days for hot-rolled plates. For normalized plates, expect 35-55 days depending on the complex specifications required to achieve -60°C toughness. We can accommodate project-specific quantities for this high-performance grade.

The price of FH36 steel plate reflects its premium performance for extreme low-temperature service. It commands a significant premium over EH36 and DH36 due to the specialized production process required for -60°C toughness. For an accurate quote, please contact our sales team with your specific requirements (grade, size, quantity, delivery condition-N or TMCP, destination port, and classification society). We provide competitive pricing for high-grade steels and respond promptly.

FH36 is a specialized, high-performance grade primarily supplied as a **customized product**. Due to the specific certification requirements (especially for -60°C impact testing) and its use in major projects like LNG carriers and icebreakers, we typically produce it to order. However, we may have limited spot inventory from completed projects. For real-time availability, please contact our sales team directly or use our stock inquiry system. → stock inquiry system.

Information You May Find Relevant

Pricing Range for FH36

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)

Request Technical & Commercial Support

Get Professional Support for Your FH36 Project

We supply classification-approved FH36 high strength shipbuilding steel plate with -60°C impact toughness, 355 MPa yield strength, full traceability, flexible inspection options, and coordinated logistics support for polar and cryogenic applications.

📋 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 FH36 Steel Plate Quotation

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