This SAE Information Report provides a uniform means of designating wrought steels during a period of usage prior to the time they meet the requirements for SAE standard steel designation. The numbers consist of the prefix PS1 followed by a sequential number starting with 1. A number once assigned is never assigned to any other composition.

A PS number may be obtained for steel composition by submitting a written request to SAE staff, indicating the chemical composition and other pertinent characteristics of the material. If the request is approved according to established procedures, SAE Staff will assign a PS number to the grade. this number will remain in effect until the grade meets the requirements for an SAE standard steel or the grade is discontinued according to established procedures.