As experienced steel professionals at Luokaiwei, we confidently recommend our 100% factory-priced, customizable ASTM A36 carbon steel plates, delivering exceptional value over typical market rates. ASTM A36 carbon steel plates price: China (export FOB) USD 520–650 (10–25 t MOQ), Backed by full customization options and unwavering support, we ensure you receive top-grade material at unbeatable cost—direct from our factory, not through intermediaries.
What Is ASTM A36 Carbon Steel Plate?
Per ASTM A36/A36M‑19, this grade is a common structural carbon steel widely employed in construction, machinery, and general fabrication. It features:
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Chemical composition: ≤0.26% C, ≤0.04% P, ≤0.05% S, 0.60–1.20% Mn, ≤0.40% Si, ≥0.20% Cu.
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Mechanical properties: Minimum yield strength 250 MPa, tensile 400–550 MPa, elongation ≥20% (8 in).
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Formability: Easily welded (SMAW, GMAW, oxy‑fuel) and suitable for riveting/bolting.
As a recognized standard for steel structures and plates, its universality and availability make it a procurement cornerstone.
Key ASTM A36 Standards & Compliance
Luokaiwei’s ASTM A36 plates strictly adhere to:
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ASTM A36/A36M‑19 spec covering composition, mechanical testing, and supplementary requirements.
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Optional ASTM A6/A6M‑19 general requirements for rolled structural steel (including plate thickness, flattening, straightness).
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AISC, ASME SA‑36, and ABS shipbuilding standards where relevant, enhancing technical credibility.
These standards reinforce plate reliability for structural, transportation, and industrial uses.
Global Price Comparison – 2025 Q2
We’ve compiled current market prices from major regions, contrasting them with Luokaiwei’s direct-factory cost.
| Region | Typical A36 Plate Price (per ton) | Luokaiwei Price* |
|---|---|---|
| China (export FOB) | USD 520–650 (10–25 t MOQ) | USD 480 FOB Qingdao |
| USA (domestic) | Approx. USD 932 (hot-rolled coil) | USD 880 EXW Qingdao |
| Europe (CFR + duty) | USD 850–1,000 (cfr) | — |
| Southeast Asia (CIF) | USD 600–700 (estimated) | USD 520 FOB |
* Above figures reflect Luokaiwei’s factory-direct, customizable quotes with flexible MOQ, typically USD 40–60/ton less than standard offers.
Price Drivers & Trends
Supply & Demand Cycles
Global steel prices are cyclical—peaks (~2021) followed by troughs anticipated mid‑2025. Luokaiwei leverages vertical integration to offer lower costs even during market dips.
Regional Logistics & Tariffs
Tariffs (e.g., recent U.S. steel levies) and Chinese oversupply pressure contribute to fluctuating market prices.
Quality & Certification
Higher-cost producers often charge premiums aligned with certification and traceability standards. Luokaiwei’s fully certified A36 plates meet ISO 9001 and commercial compliance at no added cost.
Case Study: Structural Bridge Project
Client: Metro City Infrastructure (USA)
Scope: 200 ton A36 plates (10–100 mm) for pedestrian bridge frames.
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Background: Domestic quotes exceeded USD 950/ton, high MOQ, longer lead times.
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Solution: Luokaiwei offered USD 880/ton EXW Qingdao, full A36/A6M testing, coil-to-plate laser cutting, and export service.
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Outcome:
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Total saving: USD 14,000 (~8%)
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Delivered in 4 weeks, with consistent w/mill inspection
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Installation issues reduced by 15% thanks to high-precision cutting
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Client said: “Luokaiwei provided expert-level service and seamless delivery.”
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Technical Selection Guide
Thickness‑Diameter Range
Luokaiwei manufactures 3–500 mm thick plates, widths up to 2.5 m, lengths up to 12 m—matching global standards.
Weldability & Fabrication
We support all welding methods per ASTM spec Appendix X3 (A6/A6M). Standard finishing includes pickled/planed, coated, or blast-cleaned surfaces.
Quality Assurance
Every batch undergoes:
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Heat & product chemical testing
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Tensile/yield testing at certified labs
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Full traceability from slab to shipment
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Optional NDT or PMI tests
Sustainability & Traceability
With over 80% recycled input, A36 is already a greener steel choice. Luokaiwei enhances sustainability by providing CO₂ emission documentation and applying eco-packaging and inland transport optimization.
Customization Options
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Cut-to-size: laser/plasma/CNC
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Hole punching & notching
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Surface treatments: blast & paint, primers, coatings
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Edge machining: beveled, chamfered
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Packaging: wooden crates, wrapped packs, sea-worthy
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Testing: hardness, NDT, PMI per purchaser requirements
Customization adds no unreasonable cost compared to competitors.
FAQs
Q1: What’s the difference between ASTM A36 and high‑strength HSLA grades?
A: A36 is a mild carbon steel (yield 250 MPa), while HSLA (like A529 Gr50) has higher strength (345 MPa+). HSLA costs more but offers weight reduction.
Q2: Do you supply mill test certificates?
A: Yes, each plate includes MTCs listing chemical, mechanical test results—and supplementary tests if ordered.
Q3: What minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
A: Standard is 10 ton, negotiable for repetitive orders or ongoing projects.
Q4: Lead time from order?
A: Approximately 3–4 weeks for production + 4–7 days sea freight (Dalian/Qingdao to main ports).
Q5: What payment terms apply?
A: Typically T/T (30% deposit, 70% before shipment). L/C at sight is also available.
Summary & Procurement Guidance
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Luokaiwei offers factory-direct A36 plates priced 8–12% under typical export costs.
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We comply fully with ASTM A36/A6/A6M, offer customization without premium.
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Strong logistics, short lead time, and robust QA support international projects.
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For buyers prioritizing quality, price and flexibility, Luokaiwei is the ideal partner.
