CR460LA - Cold-Rolled Micro-Alloyed Steel according to VDA 239-100

Quality	Standard	Possible coatings
CR460LA	VDA 239-100	UC, EG, GI, GA, AS, ZM

Quality

Testing direction	Yield strengt R_e (MPa)	Tensile strength Rm (MPa)	Elongation Type 1 A₅₀ (in %)	Type 2 A80 (in %)	Type 3 A50 (in %)
L	460 – 580	520 – 680	≥ 15	≥ 15	≥ 16

Mechanical Properties

C %	Si %	Mn %	P %	S %	Al %	Ti %	Nb %	Cu %
≤ 0,13	≤ 0,60	≤ 1,70	≤ 0,030	≤ 0,025	≥ 0,015	≤ 0,15	≤ 0,10	≤ 0,20

Chemical properties

The CR460LA grade, according to VDA 239-100, marks the transition to a very high strength level within the range of cold-rolled micro-alloyed steels. This material was developed to withstand the extreme loads in modern crash structures, where every material saving directly impacts the overall weight. CR460LA is intended for components that require maximum stiffness and strength to protect the passenger compartment. The development and use of this grade are a clear indication of technological progress in automotive material engineering. Like all grades in the VDA 239-100 standard, CR460LA is exclusively optimized and approved for use in vehicle manufacturing, where it provides customized solutions for high-performance components.

Properties

The mechanical properties of CR460LA underscore its position as a high-performance steel. The minimum yield strength (Rp0.2) is an impressive 460 MPa, while the tensile strength (Rm) must reach at least 480 MPa. These values clearly place the material in the high-strength steel segment. As expected, the elongation is further reduced, reaching a minimum of 17%. This lower elongation at break places increased demands on forming processes. For engineers, this means that component geometry must be planned more carefully and forming processes controlled more precisely to avoid cracking. The chemical composition remains constant, with a very low carbon content and an increased amount of microalloying elements. The high concentration of these alloying elements is crucial for achieving high strength through precipitation hardening and grain refinement. Good weldability is maintained, ensuring integration into automated production lines. The surface of the cold-rolled strip is suitable for common surface treatments and coatings, such as… For example, hot-dip galvanizing is ideally suited.

Applications

The high strength of CR460LA makes it ideally suited for use in components that must ensure high energy absorption and stiffness within a compact space. Typical applications include:

Intrusion protection in doors: Components that prevent the door panel from intruding into the passenger compartment in the event of a side impact.

Reinforcements for bumper systems: Special reinforcement profiles that absorb impact energy at high speed.

Roof frame and beam reinforcements: These parts contribute to the stability of the roof structure and provide protection in the event of a rollover.

Structural nodes and connections: In complex body structures, CR460LA is used to distribute the load in critical areas.

The use of this grade allows for further optimization of vehicle weight, as the required strength values can be achieved with thinner sheets.

Conclusion

With CR460LA according to VDA 239-100, engineers have a material at their disposal that redefines the boundaries of cold forming. It provides the necessary strength for the most demanding crash structures, thereby significantly supporting the further development of passive vehicle safety. Despite its lower elongation, the material remains formable enough for complex profiling, making it a valuable resource for innovative lightweight constructions. For the automotive industry, CR460LA is an indispensable building block for making the next generation of vehicles safer, lighter, and more energy-efficient.