BV shipbuilding steel is a type of steel certified by Bureau Veritas (BV) – one of the most prestigious maritime classification societies in the world. BV steel meets strict standards for strength, durability and corrosion resistance, helping to ensure safety in the maritime industry.
1. What is BV Shipbuilding Steel Standard?
AH36, DH36, and EH36 steel grades are used in marine structural applications. BV (Bureau Veritas) classification confirms their compliance with international standards. Available in plates, bulb flats, and angle bars. BV emphasizes corrosion resistance by adding copper. These steels are suitable for vessels operating in harsh marine environments.
2. Technical Properties and BV Requirements
2.1. Mechanical Properties
Yield strength is 355 MPa, and tensile strength ranges from 490 to 620 MPa. Elongation at 21% ensures good ductility. BV applies stricter impact testing requirements. AH36, DH36, and EH36 effectively handle dynamic marine loads.

2.2. Elongation

2.3. Chemical Composition

BV enhances corrosion resistance by adding Copper (0.20–0.35%). This increases the steel’s lifespan in saltwater by 20–30%. Especially beneficial for bulb flats and exposed angle bars.
Summary Table – BV Mechanical and Chemical Properties
Steel Grade | Yield Strength (MPa) | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Test Temperature (°C) | Copper (%) | Purpose of Copper |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
AH36 | 355 | 490 – 620 | 0 | 0.20 – 0.35 | Saltwater corrosion resistance |
DH36 | 355 | 490 – 620 | -20 | 0.20 – 0.35 | Cold zone protection |
EH36 | 355 | 490 – 620 | -40 | 0.20 – 0.35 | Extended durability in Arctic |
3. Dimensions of BV Shipbuilding Steel
3.1. Steel Plates
Thickness ranges from 6–100mm, width from 1,500–3,500mm, and length from 6,000–12,000mm. BV recommends TMCP processing for thick EH36 plates. Commonly used for hull and deck structures.
3.2. Bulb Flats
Thickness: 3–50mm, width: 20–250mm, length: 6,000–12,000mm. Suitable for frameworks and bulkheads exposed to saltwater.
3.3. Angle Bars
Leg width: 20–200mm, thickness: 3–20mm, length: 6,000–12,000mm. Used for corner reinforcement and corrosion-prone areas.
BV Steel Dimension Table
Steel Type | Thickness (mm) | Width/Leg (mm) | Length (mm) | Main Application |
---|---|---|---|---|
Plate AH36 | 6 – 100 | 1,500 – 3,500 | 6,000 – 12,000 | Hulls, decks |
Bulb Flat DH36 | 5 – 30 | 40 – 430 | 6,000 – 12,000 | Light cold framework |
Angle Bar EH36 | 3 – 20 | 30 – 250 | 6,000 – 12,000 | Reinforcement in Arctic |
4. Applications and Benefits of BV Steel
Real-World Applications
AH36 is used for coastal cargo vessels in warmer climates. DH36 is suitable for oil tankers in moderately cold areas. EH36 is ideal for icebreakers operating in the Arctic Ocean.
Benefits of BV Certification
Copper content offers exceptional corrosion resistance. BV performs more detailed weld inspections than ABS. Ensures long-term strength, especially for bulb flats and exterior structures.
BV Steel Application Table
Steel Grade | Main Application | Operating Region | Copper Benefit |
---|---|---|---|
AH36 | Cargo ships, containers | Warm seas | Saltwater corrosion resistance |
DH36 | Oil tankers | Mild cold (-20°C) | Weld protection |
EH36 | Icebreakers | Extreme cold (-40°C) | Increased service life |
5. Comparison and Conclusion
Comparison with ABS
BV uses copper for corrosion resistance, while ABS uses aluminum for improved toughness. BV focuses on durability and lifespan, while ABS emphasizes impact toughness. Both meet high international standards.
Conclusion
AH36, DH36, and EH36 shipbuilding steels certified by BV offer excellent corrosion resistance. Suitable for marine vessels operating in all conditions. Refer to the comparison tables to select the most suitable steel grade.
6. Where to Buy High-Quality BV Steel?
✅ Certified by ABS, BV, DNV, and LR for guaranteed quality.
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