Maximum Allowable Temperature for ASTM A516 Gr 70

What is Maximum Allowable Temperature for ASTM A516 Gr 70?

Gangsteel, a leading manufacturer and exporter of pressure vessel and boiler steel plates, supplies premium ASTM A516 GR 70 plates designed for high strength, toughness, and weldability in industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, and power generation. Understanding the maximum allowable temperature for ASTM A516 GR 70 is critical for engineers and fabricators to ensure safe operation of pressure vessels and boilers. This article details the maximum allowable temperature, chemical composition, mechanical properties, and applications of ASTM A516 GR 70, providing essential insights for material selection.

Maximum Allowable Temperature

The maximum allowable temperature for ASTM A516 GR 70 depends on its application in pressure vessels and boilers, as governed by the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC). According to ASME Section II, Part D, which aligns with ASME SA516 GR 70 standards, the maximum allowable temperature for ASTM A516 GR 70 is:

• 538°C (1000°F)for non-corrosive service, where creep and oxidation are not significant concerns.
• 427°C (800°F)for applications requiring strict adherence to ASME BPVC, particularly in high-pressure environments where long-term exposure to elevated temperatures may affect material properties.

Key Considerations:

• Creep Resistance: Above 427°C, ASTM A516 GR 70 may experience creep deformation under sustained loads, limiting its use in high-temperature applications.
• Corrosion and Environment: In corrosive environments (e.g., sour service), the maximum temperature may be lower to prevent accelerated degradation. Additional testing, such as HIC (Hydrogen Induced Cracking) resistance, may be required.
• Design Codes: For ASME-coded vessels, the maximum allowable stress values decrease significantly above 427°C, as specified in ASME Section II, Part D, Table 1A.

Gangsteel provides ASTM A516 GR 70 plates with certifications to ensure compliance with ASME temperature limits. For applications exceeding 538°C, alternative materials like ASTM A387 (chromium-molybdenum steel) may be recommended.

Chemical Composition

The chemical composition of ASTM A516 GR 70 supports its performance within its temperature range. The table below outlines its composition per ASTM standards:

Key Notes:

• Carbon: Capped at 0.27% to ensure weldability and prevent excessive hardness at elevated temperatures.
• Manganese: Enhances strength and toughness, supporting performance up to 538°C.
• Phosphorus and Sulfur: Low levels improve notch toughness, critical for low-temperature performance but also relevant for thermal stability.
• Aluminum: Ensures fully killed steel, reducing gas inclusions for consistent properties.

Gangsteel’s ASTM A516 GR 70 plates meet ASME SA516 GR 70 standards, with rigorous chemical testing to ensure reliability within temperature limits.

Mechanical Properties

The mechanical properties of ASTM A516 GR 70 ensure its suitability for pressure vessels up to its maximum allowable temperature. The table below summarizes its properties:

Highlights:

• Tensile Strength: The 485–620 MPa range ensures durability in pressure vessels up to 538°C.
• Yield Strength: A minimum of 260 MPa supports structural integrity at elevated temperatures.
• Elongation: 17–21% ductility enables fabrication without compromising performance.
• Impact Toughness: Excellent low-temperature performance (-46°C) complements its use in moderate-temperature applications.

Compared to ASTM A516 GR 65 (450–585 MPa) and ASTM A516 GR 60 (415–550 MPa), ASTM A516 GR 70 offers superior strength for high-pressure applications within its temperature range.

Applications

ASTM A516 GR 70 is widely used in applications within its temperature limits:

• Pressure Vessels: For oil, gas, and chemical processing, operating up to 538°C in non-corrosive environments.
• Boilers: In power generation, where thermal stability is critical up to 427°C for ASME-coded vessels.
• Heat Exchangers: Suitable for moderate-temperature applications in petrochemical facilities.
• Fabrication: Its weldability supports complex assemblies within the specified temperature range.

Gangsteel’s ASME SA516 GR 70 plates are certified for ASME-coded vessels, ensuring compliance within temperature limits.

Weldability at Elevated Temperatures

ASTM A516 GR 70 is fully killed carbon steel, offering excellent weldability with processes like SMAW, GTAW, and SAW. Its low carbon content minimizes weld imperfections, while normalization enhances toughness. For applications near the maximum allowable temperature:

• Preheat: Apply 100–150°C for thicker plates (>25 mm) to reduce thermal stress.
• Post-Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT): Required at 600–650°C for ASME-coded vessels to relieve stresses, especially near 427°C.
• Electrode Selection: Use low-hydrogen electrodes (e.g., E7018) to prevent cracking.

Gangsteel supplies ASTM A516 GR 70 in normalized conditions to optimize weldability within its temperature range.

Comparison with Other Grades

The table below compares ASTM A516 GR 70 with other A516 grades for temperature suitability:

For global equivalents, such as EN P355GH, refer to Gangsteel’s ASME SA516 GR 70 Equivalent Grade guide.

Why Choose Gangsteel?

Gangsteel is a trusted supplier of ASTM A516 GR 70 and ASME SA516 GR 70 plates, offering:

• Certified Quality: Plates undergo ultrasonic testing, Charpy impact tests at -46°C, and chemical analysis to meet ASTM/ASME standards.
• Customization: Available in normalized or hot-rolled conditions for temperature-specific applications.
• Global Supply: Reliable delivery from China to worldwide markets.
• Technical Support: Guidance on selecting ASTM A516 GR 70 versus ASTM A516 GR 65, ASTM A516 GR 60, or ASTM A516 GR 55.

Gangsteel Solution

ASTM A516 GR 70 is suitable for pressure vessels and boilers up to a maximum allowable temperature of 538°C (427°C for ASME-coded vessels), offering high strength and weldability. Gangsteel’s ASME SA516 GR 70 plates ensure compliance and reliability for temperature-critical applications. For equivalent standards, explore our ASME SA516 GR 70 Equivalent Grade guide.

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