Last updated 10th May 2025

ASTM A500 Standard Specification for Cold-Formed Welded and Seamless Carbon Steel Structural Tubing in Rounds and Shapes

ASTM A500 is a standard test method for cold-formed welded and seamless carbon steel structural tubing for building and structural purposes. The test standard extends to round, square, rectangular, and other special shapes of tubing for load-bearing applications. It specifies wall thickness, dimensional requirements, strength properties, and performance requirements needed to secure safety and conformity. A500 test materials find extensive applications in infrastructure, where strength-to-weight ratio and fabrication ease are important. It further provides for mechanical testing procedures, visual examination, and marking of the product to ensure structural compliance. The standard provides support for consistent material behavior under axial, torsional, and bending stress.

Read More

GET STARTED

    Share your requirements *

    Provide your contact information *

    ASTM A500 Introduction

    Structural tubing is essential in engineering, construction, and transportation systems because of its strength, rigidity, and formability. This standard method is for the production and testing of cold-formed carbon steel tubes, used in structures such as bridges, machinery, and buildings. The standard establishes four grades, i.e., A, B, C, and D, with certain yield and tensile strength properties for various applications. It maintains uniform internal weld integrity, wall uniformity, and mechanical properties in tube length and form. It enables high structural reliability for intricate load-bearing systems.

    ASTM A500 Test Method

    Tension TestingPerformed on a longitudinal strip prepared from the tubing wall to find yield strength, tensile strength, and elongation.
    Flattening TestThe tubing is flattened between two parallel plates in a cross-section to test ductility and weld integrity under compressive stress.
    Weld Soundness TestDone by etching a cross-section with nital solution and examining under magnification for cracks or lack of fusion.

    ASTM A500 Equipment and Sample Preparation

    Universal Testing MachineUsed for performing tension tests on prepared strip specimens in a parallel orientation to the tube axis.
    Hydraulic Flattening PressSubject tube segments to compressive load, cleaned with cut ends, and oriented at right angles to the load direction.
    Metallurgical MicroscopeUsed to study etched weld cross-sections for discontinuities following polishing and chemical treatment.

    ASTM A500 Results and Interpretation

    Tension test results are at least the minimum values for yield and tensile strength as indicated for each grade. Elongation are in accordance with specified percentages to ensure ductility. In flattening test, no cracks or separation shows sound welds and proper formability. Weld soundness inspection detects internal quality; fusion defects or porosity can result in rejection. These results collectively ensure that the tubing can withstand applied loads, resist deformation, and function safely in structural assemblies.

    Service NameRemarks
    ASTM A500 Testing
    Contact US

    ASTM A500 Related Articles

    ASTM A513 deals with mechanical tubing, noting differences in applications and tolerances from structural tubing. ASTM A1085 offers additional requirements for structural tubing with enhanced toughness and close tolerances, frequently utilized for seismic and critical load conditions. ASTM A6 covers general specifications for rolled structural steel products and is frequently used for reference for dimensional control and test uniformity in structural profiles.

    Applications of ASTM A500 in Industry

    ASTM A500 tubing finds widespread application in structural framing, building columns, bridges, support structures, and towers. Its hollow shape provides for lighter construction without sacrificing load-carrying capacity. In the transportation industry, it is utilized for frames and chassis where strength and rigidity are crucial. It is used by equipment manufacturers for racks, support arms, and welded assemblies because of its high weldability and uniform wall thickness. This tubing is also widely used in architectural features for contemporary, load-resistant design.

    Importance of ASTM A500

    Testing under ASTM A500 is necessary to ensure that structural tubing meets mechanical performance and safety standards. Through weld quality verification, strength, and ductility, the standard ensures the removal of weak links that might cause failure under stress. Consistent test results not only guarantee compliance but also instill confidence in the structural integrity of public safety frameworks. Stringent testing guarantees that material performance is consistent with design assumptions, avoiding expensive structural problems or catastrophic failure.

    FAQ's

    Where can I get the astm a500 tested?

    You can share your astm a500 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific astm a500 test to various testing techniques.

    How much do I need to pay for the astm a500 test?

    Please contact us for a detailed quote for your astm a500 testing needs. Cost incurred to carry out different astm a500 testing methodology depends on the type of raw material; number of samples, coupons, or specimens; test conditions, turn around time etc. Costs of some ASTM testing methods start from $100 and the final value depends upon the factors listed above. Please contact us for the best and latest prices.

    How many samples are required for astm a500?

    The required number of samples or specimens should comply with the procedure given in the astm a500 standard. However, the MaTestLab operations team can assist you for your special requirements once you share your testing details with us.

    How much discount can I get on the astm a500 test?

    MaTestLab has a vast testing laboratory network, hence we bring you the best testing facilities in a cost-effective way. We offer considerable discounts (15-20%) to our returning customers based on test volume and frequency.

    How many days will it take to complete the astm a500 test?

    The turnaround time for astm a500 test methodology depends upon the test procedure mentioned in the standard test document. However, we at MaTestLab understand your research requirements and hence try to get your test completed within the least possible time.

    Where can I get the astm a500 tested?

    You can share your astm a500 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific astm a500 test to various testing techniques.

    POPULAR TESTS
    ONE-STOP FOR ALL
    MATERIAL TESTING NEEDS
    MaTestLab Inc. offers accessible, quick, and affordable material testing, product testing, and failure analysis services. We support your on-demand testing and expert consultation needs with the help of our extensive network of material testing laboratories situated in the US and other parts of the world.
    MATERIAL TESTING
    We offer destructive and non-destructive tests over a range of mechanical, electrical, chemical, thermal, optical, corrosion, radiation, and biological testing methodologies defined by ASTM, ISO and other organizations.
    PRODUCT TESTING
    We help you evaluate and ensure your product quality and performance with standard and custom-made testing solutions. All the tests are done at well-equipped testing laboratories using standard testing methods for best output and satisfaction.
    FAILURE ANALYSIS
    Failure analysis ensures high levels of quality in every manufacturing process. We help you with getting the best failure or root cause analysis to determine the cause of the failure. The results help you identify means to prevent failure recurrences.
    Process for testing
    • STEP 01

      You share your testing requirements

    • STEP 02

      You share your sample(s)

    • STEP 03

      We deliver your test reports

    Get your testing done

    Let us known your testing requirements and we will be right back with a solution.

      Let us root for each other. Collaborate to grow, expand, and accelerate our businesses.

      Partner with us

        close

        Please share your requirement with us

          ×

          Contact Us

          Discover more from MaTestLab

          Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

          Continue reading