2. Definition and classification of steel grades

Standard NF EN 10020 defines the term "steel" and establishes :

• classification into non-alloy steels, alloy steels and stainless steels according to their chemical composition;

• classification of non-alloy steels and alloy steels into quality steels or special steels, and of stainless steels according to the main quality classes defined by their properties or applications.

The classification given by the standard, or the product specification, automatically applies regardless of the type of steel actually produced, as long as its chemical composition corresponds to the requirements of the quality standard in question.