ASTM A240 vs SA240 Differences

ASTM A240 vs SA240 Differences: Gangsteel Stainless Solution in China

Introduction to ASTM A240 vs SA240 Differences

ASTM A240 and SA240 are standards for stainless steel plate, sheet, and strip, but they differ in origins and specific requirements. ASTM A240 is issued by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) for general applications, while SA240 is the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) version, often used for pressure vessels. Gangsteel, a leading manufacturer and exporter in China, supplies materials compliant with both standards. As a specialist in ASME SA240 stainless steel plates, Gangsteel helps clients navigate these specifications. This article details the differences between ASTM A240 and SA240.

What is ASTM A240?

ASTM A240 is a specification for chromium, chromium-nickel, and chromium-manganese-nickel stainless steel plate, sheet, and strip for pressure vessels and general applications. It covers grades like 304, 316, and 430, focusing on chemical composition, mechanical properties, and testing. Gangsteel’s products under ASTM A240 are ideal for non-pressure applications.

What is SA240?

SA240 is the ASME adoption of ASTM A240, prefixed with "SA" for ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code materials. It is used in pressure vessel construction, ensuring safety under high pressure.

Key Differences Between ASTM A240 and SA240

The standards are similar but differ in organization, intended use, and some limits:

• Issuing Organizations and Intended Use: ASTM A240 is from ASTM for general applications, while SA240 is from ASME for pressure vessels, though technically aligned.
• Element Limits: ASTM A240 allows wider limits for elements like sulfur and phosphorus, while SA240 enforces stricter limits for improved corrosion resistance.
• Certification and Testing: SA240 may require additional certification for pressure vessel use, but material properties are the same.

Gangsteel ensures compliance with both for versatile use.

Chemical Composition Comparison (Example: Grade 304)

Composition is identical in both standards for most grades. For Grade 304:

Stricter SA240 limits on impurities like sulfur (≤ 0.03%) improve performance in pressure applications.

Mechanical Properties Comparison (Example: Grade 304)

Properties are the same in both standards:

Equivalent Materials for SA240 / ASTM A240 Grade 304

Equivalents are the same for both standards:

Gangsteel’s SA240 / A240 plates align with these.

Applications of SA240 / ASTM A240 Stainless Steel

Both standards support similar applications. The table below highlights uses:

Gangsteel’s ASME SA 213/SA 213M stainless pipes complement both standards.

Comparing SA240 / ASTM A240 with Other Grades

SA240 304 vs 316: SA240 304 is cost-effective for mild corrosion, while SA240 316 adds molybdenum for chloride resistance.

SA240 304 vs 304L: SA240 304 offers strength, but SA240 304L has lower carbon for weldability.

SA240 304 vs 201: SA240 304 has higher nickel for better corrosion, whereas SA240 201 is affordable but less resistant.

SA240 304 vs 430: SA240 304 is non-magnetic with formability, while SA240 430 is magnetic with good resistance in mild settings.

Gangsteel’s nickel alloy steel plates provide alternatives.

Why Choose Gangsteel for SA240 / ASTM A240 Stainless Steel?

Gangsteel offers SA240 / ASTM A240 stainless steel with:

• Compliance: Meets ASME SA240 and ASTM A240 standards.
• Customization: Various grades for specific needs.
• Export Strength: Global supply.
• Variety: Including SA240 Gr 347 and SA240 Gr 201L.

Conclusion

ASTM A240 and SA240 differ in organization and limits but share material properties for stainless steel applications. Gangsteel’s solutions in China, including SA240 Gr 316L and SA240 Gr 904L, ensure quality. Contact Gangsteel for UNS stainless steel plates to meet your needs.