What is 240 steel?

ASME SA-240 (often referred to as "240 steel" in shorthand or queries) is not a specific steel grade but a standard specification for chromium, chromium-nickel, and chromium-manganese-nickel stainless steel plate, sheet, and strip. It is used for pressure vessels and general applications, adopted by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) from ASTM A240. This specification covers various grades of stainless steel, such as 304, 316, and others, ensuring they meet requirements for corrosion resistance, strength, and durability.

Key Aspects of ASME SA-240:

• Purpose: It defines the chemical composition, mechanical properties, and manufacturing requirements for stainless steel materials to ensure safety in high-pressure or corrosive environments, like tanks, piping, and structural components.
• Common Grades Covered: Includes popular austenitic grades like 304 (general-purpose), 304L (low-carbon for better weldability), 316 (molybdenum-added for enhanced corrosion resistance), and ferritic grades like 430.
• Equivalent Standard: Identical to ASTM A240, with ASME SA-240 used in boiler and pressure vessel codes.

Typical Composition (for Grade 304 as an Example):

• Carbon (C): ≤ 0.08%
• Chromium (Cr): 18.0–20.0%
• Nickel (Ni): 8.0–10.5%
• Manganese (Mn): ≤ 2.0%
• Silicon (Si): ≤ 0.75%
• Phosphorus (P): ≤ 0.045%
• Sulfur (S): ≤ 0.03%

Mechanical Properties (for Grade 304):

• Tensile Strength (min): 515 MPa (75 ksi)
• Yield Strength (min): 205 MPa (30 ksi)
• Elongation (min): 40%
• Hardness (max): 201 Brinell or 92 Rockwell B
• Density: 7.93 g/cm³ (7930 kg/m³)

Applications:

• Chemical and petrochemical plants (tanks and reactors).
• Food processing equipment (hygienic surfaces).
• Architectural and construction (panels and supports).
• Marine components (in mild corrosive conditions).

Gangsteel, a trusted manufacturer and exporter in China, offers SA240-compliant stainless steel, including Grade 304, for global projects. For more details or quotes, contact Gangsteel.