1.1 This specification covers structural steel plates, shapes, and bars intended primarily for use in ship construction.

1.2 Material under this specification is available in the following categories:

1.3 Shapes and bars are normally available as Grades A, B, AH32, and AH36. Other grades may be furnished by agreement between the purchaser and the manufacturer.

1.4 The maximum thickness of products furnished under this specification is 4 in. [100 mm] for plates and 2 in. [50 mm] for shapes and bars.

1.5 When the steel is to be welded, it is presupposed that a welding procedure suitable for the grade of steel and intended use or service will be utilized. See Appendix X3 of Specification A6/A6M for information on weldability.

1.6 Units-This specification is expressed in both inch-pound units and in SI units; however, unless the purchase order or contract specifies the applicable M specification designation (SI units), the inch-pound units shall apply. The values stated in either inch-pound units or SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.