hochfester

Hochfester is a term used in German to describe materials or products that exhibit unusually high mechanical strength compared with conventional variants. The phrase is context-dependent and typically refers to higher yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, or compressive strength, depending on the material class.

In structural engineering, hochfeste Stähle (high-strength steels) are commonly defined by elevated yield strengths, often above about 355 MPa, and higher ultimate tensile strengths. Such steels enable lighter yet equally stiff or stronger constructions and are widely used in automotive, aerospace, machinery, and construction applications. Hochfester Beton (high-strength concrete) denotes concrete with compressive strengths typically exceeding 50 MPa, with some grades surpassing 100 MPa, offering greater durability and load-carrying capacity per volume.

Beyond metals and concrete, the term also appears in high-performance polymers and composites, including high-strength plastics and fiber-reinforced polymers, where the emphasis is on tensile, impact, or fatigue resistance. These materials are employed in applications demanding reduced weight and enhanced performance, such as sports equipment, aerospace components, and industrial coatings.

The designation is tied to testing standards and specifications that quantify strength properties, such as tensile tests, hardness measurements, and compression tests, following relevant standards (for example, ISO and EN/ASTM guidelines specific to the material type). Designers must consider trade-offs associated with high strength, including reduced ductility, greater cost, and more demanding fabrication or welding requirements.

Overall, hochfester describes a category of materials engineered for superior strength-to-weight performance, balancing properties to meet specific technical and economic goals.