ASTM A847 Tubes Manufacturer & Supplier - USA Piping Solution

If you're sourcing materials for structural projects where both strength and natural corrosion resistance are key, ASTM A847 Tubes likely top your list. We specialize in providing these unique components. As a leading US-based manufacturer, supplier, and stockist, we combine significant global resources with attentive, American-based service. Delivering high-quality Structural Steel Tubes is a core part of our business, and the A847 specification—often linked with Weathering Steel Tubes or Corten Steel Tubes—is a prominent feature in our inventory. Professionals in construction, architecture, and infrastructure development rely on the durability and distinct look these tubes offer. Partnering with USA Piping Solutions means you get materials verified against demanding standards, ensuring both structural soundness and long-term visual appeal.

We know that selecting structural materials goes beyond just meeting load requirements; it influences long-term maintenance and the overall aesthetic of a project. That’s why we put such emphasis on the quality of our ASTM A847 Tubes. Typically produced through cold-formed welding, these High-Strength Low-Alloy (HSLA) Tubes are cleverly designed to develop their own protective rust layer when left exposed. Whether you need common square or rectangular profiles shipped quickly from our substantial stock, or have specific length or processing needs, USA Piping Solutions is ready to help. You can expect fully certified Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Tubes, along with solid technical insight and efficient logistics reaching worldwide.

So, What Are ASTM A847 Tubes?

Let's break down what makes ASTM A847 Tubes a special kind of structural material. These tubes adhere to the ASTM A847 specification (and sometimes the parallel ASME SA847 standard). This puts them in the category of High-Strength, Low-Alloy (HSLA) Tubes specifically meant for building things. But what really makes them stand out is their enhanced ability to resist corrosion from the atmosphere. This is why you’ll often hear them called Weathering Steel Tubes or see them associated with brand names like Corten®.

How does this "weathering" actually work? It comes down to the specific mix of elements in the steel, especially additions like copper, chromium, nickel, and sometimes silicon and phosphorus. When A847 steel faces the natural wet-and-dry cycles outdoors, these elements encourage the formation of a unique rust layer. Unlike ordinary rust that flakes off and keeps eating away at the steel, this layer—often called a patina—becomes dense, stable, and sticks tightly to the surface. It acts like a natural shield, significantly slowing down further corrosion. This clever trick allows A847 tubes to be used in many structural situations without needing paint or other coatings. This can mean real savings on initial finishing and long-term upkeep, plus it offers a very distinct, evolving visual character.

Beyond just resisting rust, A847 tubes are HSLA steel. This means they pack more punch in terms of strength – specifically, higher minimum yield and tensile strengths compared to standard carbon steel structural tubes (like ASTM A500 Grade B or C). This extra strength can allow designers to use potentially lighter wall thicknesses or slimmer profiles while still meeting the structural demands. This might lead to weight savings or more elegant designs. The standard mainly covers Cold-Formed Welded Tubes, usually shaped into squares, rectangles, or rounds, making them very practical for all sorts of structural framing and architectural uses.

ASTM A847 Tube Specifications: The Technical Side

Making sure the technical details are spot-on is crucial for structural integrity, meeting building codes, and getting the performance you expect. USA Piping Solutions provides ASTM A847 Tubes manufactured and tested according to the precise requirements of the relevant industry standards.

Key Technical Details

Specification	Details
The Governing Standard	ASTM A847 – specifies Cold-Formed Welded High-Strength, Low-Alloy Structural Tubing with Improved Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance. ASME SA847 may also apply in certain cases.
How They're Typically Made	Primarily produced through Cold-Formed Welded methods, especially Electric Resistance Welding (ERW). A847 focuses on welded tubes for structural applications, not seamless alternatives.
Shapes & Sizes (OD/Dimensions)	Available in standard square, rectangular, and sometimes round profiles. Dimensions vary depending on the project's structural requirements.
Wall Thickness Range (WT)	Common thicknesses range from 0.125 inches (1/8") to 0.625 inches (5/8"). Heavier walls may be available for larger profiles depending on the manufacturer.
Typical Lengths	Standard lengths include 20 ft, 24 ft, 40 ft, and 48 ft. Terms like Single Random, Double Random, and custom cut-to-length options are commonly used.
Corners on Shapes	Outside corner radii for square and rectangular tubes are standardized, typically related to the wall thickness, ensuring strength and visual consistency.

Meeting these specifications ensures the ASME SA847 Tubes fit together correctly, have the right material properties, and follow the necessary manufacturing guidelines for structural use.

Inside the Steel: Chemical Makeup and Strength Profile

The unique double benefit of ASTM A847 Tubes—being both strong and naturally weathering—comes directly from their specific chemical ingredients and the resulting mechanical strength.

The Chemical Blend (Typical Weight %)

Here’s a glance at the elements contributing to A847's performance (keep in mind exact limits can vary slightly by producer, but generally follow this pattern):

Element	Typical Max or Min (%)	Why It's Included in A847
Carbon (C)	Max 0.20	Kept fairly low to maintain good weldability, which is essential for structural work.
Manganese (Mn)	Max 1.35	Plays a big role in achieving the steel's strength and toughness.
Phosphorus (P)	Max 0.04 (can vary*)	Sometimes intentionally higher in weathering steels as it helps the patina form, but often limited for weldability/toughness. Check specific certs.
Sulfur (S)	Max 0.05 (can vary*)	Usually kept low for better toughness and easier welding (some specs require lower).
Copper (Cu)	Min 0.20	Absolutely necessary for triggering the formation of that dense, protective rust layer (the weathering effect).
Other Elements:	Varies	Small, controlled additions of Nickel (Ni), Chromium (Cr), and Silicon (Si) are often part of the mix to further boost atmospheric corrosion resistance and contribute to strength.

Important Note: Unlike specs for pressure pipes that often have tight ranges for many elements, A847 focuses more on achieving the target mechanical properties and ensuring enough of the key weathering elements, like Copper, are present. The Mill Test Report (MTR) for your specific order will always provide the certified chemical analysis.

Strength and Ductility Measures (Minimum Requirements)

These numbers define the tube's structural capacity:

Property	Minimum Value	What This Means for Design
Tensile Strength	70,000 psi (70 ksi)	The ultimate pulling stress the tube material can handle before it begins to break apart.
Yield Strength	50,000 psi (50 ksi)	The stress point where the steel starts to permanently deform; this is a key number for structural engineers.
Elongation (in 2")	19%	Shows how much the material can stretch before fracturing; gives an idea of its ductility. (Note: The spec might allow lower minimums for very thin walls).

Reaching these higher strength levels (compared to standard A500 carbon steel tubes) is a major plus for HSLA Tubes, potentially allowing designers to create structures that are lighter or use less material.

Common Shapes and Forms for ASTM A847 Tubes

USA Piping Solutions provides ASTM A847 Tubes in the standard structural shapes that designers and fabricators use most often in construction and architectural work.

1. Square Tubes:
• We stock a broad array of sizes. These range from smaller sections perfect for handrails or architectural accents all the way up to large profiles used as columns or main members in trusses.
• They feature four equal sides and corner radii that conform to the A847 specification.
2. Rectangular Tubes:
• These offer great design flexibility since their strength differs along their two main axes. You can find them in a huge variety of width, depth, and wall thickness combinations.
• They're ideal choices for beams, columns, window/door frames, and many other structural and architectural components.
3. Round Tubes (HSS - Hollow Structural Sections):
• While A847 primarily covers cold-formed welded square and rectangular shapes, round HSS profiles manufactured to meet A847 chemistry and strength standards are sometimes available or produced.
• Rounds provide uniform strength characteristics in all directions, making them suitable for columns, bracing elements, and certain aesthetic applications.
4. Custom Shapes:
• Depending on the specific manufacturing mill and the scale of a project, there might be possibilities for producing special tube shapes. However, these are much less common than the standard square, rectangular, and round options. If your design needs something unique, it's best to inquire early.

Having these standard Structural Steel Tubes shapes available in the A847 weathering steel grade gives architects and engineers powerful options that combine structural performance with distinctive visual potential.

Where ASTM A847 Tubes Are Often Used: Applications and Industries

The compelling mix of higher strength and built-in atmospheric corrosion resistance makes ASTM A847 Tubes an excellent material for various structural and architectural projects, especially those exposed to the weather where low maintenance or a specific look is desired:

1. Bridges: You'll often see A847 used for structural elements in both large highway bridges and smaller pedestrian spans. The weathering capability means painting might not be needed in many locations, significantly cutting down on long-term upkeep costs.
2. Exposed Building Structures: It's frequently employed for visible structural frameworks in buildings, outdoor pavilions, open-air canopies, and similar constructions where the unique appearance of weathered steel contributes to the architectural design. Think columns, beams, roof trusses, and support systems for facades.
3. Artistic and Landscape Uses: The way the patina develops and changes over time makes A847 a favorite for artists creating durable outdoor sculptures and for landscape architects designing distinctive landscape features.
4. Infrastructure Elements: Well-suited for practical applications like utility transmission poles, highway lighting standards, large sign support posts, and guide rail systems where both strength and resistance to weather exposure are valuable.
5. Fencing & Railing Systems: Can be used to create robust and visually interesting fencing or guardrail systems, particularly suitable for parks, industrial areas, or along highways and railways.
6. Facade Integration: While large facade surfaces often use weathering steel plates or sheets (like A588 or A606), A847 tubes can definitely be integrated into facade designs, serving as structural supports or as decorative linear elements.

The big advantage in many of these scenarios is the potential to leave the steel bare, letting the Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Tubes develop their own protective coating. This not only saves on the initial cost and effort of painting but also eliminates the recurring expenses and environmental concerns associated with future repainting cycles over the structure's lifespan.

Finding Your Size: ASTM A847 Tube Dimensions

To support the wide-ranging needs of construction and fabrication work, USA Piping Solutions keeps a comprehensive inventory covering the most common sizes and profiles of ASTM A847 Tubes. Our stock generally includes:

• Shapes: Square, Rectangular, and sometimes Round Hollow Structural Sections (HSS).
• Size Range: We cover a broad spectrum, from smaller profiles (like 2"x2" squares) up to substantial structural sections (such as 12"x12" squares, 16"x8" rectangles, etc.), depending on the shape.
• Wall Thickness: We stock the common structural gauges and thicknesses, typically ranging from 1/8" (0.125") up to 5/8" (0.625"). Thicker walls may be available for certain larger profiles.

(Note to Design Team: Please insert a representative size chart table here. This should ideally show examples for Square, Rectangular, and perhaps Round tubes, listing typical Size x Wall Thickness combinations to give a good overview.)

Shape	Example Size	Example Wall Thickness
Square	4" x 4"	1/4"
Square	8" x 8"	1/2"
Rectangular	6" x 3"	3/16"
Rectangular	12" x 4"	3/8"
Round (HSS)	8" OD	1/2"
...(add more varied examples)

This table gives a general feel for the possibilities. Since the range of structural tubes is vast and inventory shifts, the best way to confirm availability for the specific sizes, wall thicknesses, and lengths you need is to contact our sales experts at 

Our Quality Assurance: Certifications and Compliance

When you're specifying structural materials like ASTM A847 Tubes, ensuring they meet the required standards and come with clear, accurate documentation is crucial for project safety and meeting code requirements. USA Piping Solutions provides this assurance through careful adherence to standards and transparent certification.

• The Core Specification:
• ASTM A847: We certify that every tube supplied fully conforms to the requirements of this standard. This covers the target chemical composition ranges, the necessary mechanical strength properties (yield, tensile, elongation), dimensional tolerances, and manufacturing processes for cold-formed welded HSLA structural tubes with weathering steel characteristics. ASME SA847 might also be applicable in certain situations.
• Quality Management Approach:
• ISO 9001:2015: Our operations are structured around an internationally recognized quality management system. This ensures consistent procedures and reliable product quality from the moment we source material to when it arrives at your site.
• Material Test Reports (MTRs):
• Traceability is essential. We provide MTRs (often following EN 10204 3.1 guidelines or equivalent) with our shipments. These reports document the specific heat number of the steel, confirm the results of the chemical analysis (showing the presence of key weathering elements like Copper), and verify that the required mechanical properties have been met through testing conducted by the manufacturer.
• Third-Party Verification (TPI):
• While maybe less common for standard structural tubing compared to pressure piping, we are certainly able to accommodate requests for inspection by independent third-party agencies if your project specifications or quality plan requires it.
• Relevant Testing:
• The A847 standard requires specific tests to confirm compliance. This involves checking the chemical composition and verifying the mechanical properties through tensile tests. For round tubes, flattening tests are also usually part of the requirement. We ensure all mandated tests are performed and properly documented.

Our commitment to compliance provides confidence that the Weathering Steel Tubes you receive are fully traceable, meet the specified standards, and are appropriate for your intended structural applications.

Why USA Piping Solutions Is a Smart Choice for A847 Tubes

Choosing the right supplier for ASTM A847 Tubes can make your project run smoother and ensure you get the material performance needed. USA Piping Solutions brings several clear advantages to the table:

1. Extensive Weathering Steel Inventory: We keep a substantial stock of ASTM A847 Tubes in the most common square, rectangular, and sometimes round profiles right here in the USA. This often means faster access to materials for your projects.
2. Quick Shipping, Global Capabilities: Our skilled logistics team ensures fast turnarounds for domestic shipments and expertly handles international deliveries, getting your materials where you need them, when you need them.
3. Custom Cutting & Processing: We know fabrication often requires more than just standard lengths. We offer value-added services like:
• Precision saw cutting to provide exact lengths, saving you time and reducing waste.
• Assistance in coordinating specific project needs or non-standard item requests.
• Help managing complex material lists for large projects.
4. Knowledge of Structural & Weathering Steels: Our team understands the specific properties, common uses, and fabrication points related to HSLA Tubes and Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Tubes like A847.
5. Trusted by the Construction Industry: We are a preferred supplier for numerous construction firms, steel fabricators, engineers, and architects who count on our quality materials and reliable service for their structural projects.
6. Competitive Pricing: Through strong relationships with reputable mills and streamlined operations, we provide high-quality ASTM A847 Tubes at competitive market prices, ensuring you get great value.

Working with USA Piping Solutions means getting quality Corten Steel Tubes, backed by dependable service and the technical support helpful for successful structural and architectural work.

Considering Other Structural or Alloy Materials?

While ASTM A847 Tubes provide a unique mix of strength and weathering ability, USA Piping Solutions also supplies other materials that might be suitable depending on your project's specific needs:

Ready to Discuss Your ASTM A847 Tube Project?

Are you looking for durable, corrosion-resistant ASTM A847 tubes for your next construction, infrastructure, or architectural design? When your project needs the unique strength and weathering characteristics of High-Strength Low-Alloy (HSLA) Tubes, USA Piping Solutions is here to supply what you need.

We provide high-quality Weathering Steel Tubes manufactured to meet ASTM A847 specifications, available in common square, rectangular, and round profiles. Take advantage of our large inventory, fast worldwide shipping, and helpful custom processing services. We are the supplier trusted by contractors, fabricators, and designers who need reliable Structural Steel Tubes.

Request Your ASTM A847 Tube Quote Today!