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ASTM A515 Gr 70 vs A36 Specs

ASTM A515 Grade 70 and A36 are carbon steel specifications, but they target different uses: A515 Gr 70 is a carbon-silicon steel plate for high-temperature pressure vessels, while A36 is a general structural carbon steel for buildings and bridges.

A515 Gr 70 provides higher strength and better high-temperature performance, making it suitable for boilers, whereas A36 is more economical for moderate-load applications. As a leading Chinese manufacturer and exporter, Gangsteel produces high-quality pressure vessel steels like ASME SA 516 GR 70 and structural grades such as asme sa 36 steel plate, ensuring compliance with ASTM standards for global projects.

 

Overview of ASTM A515 Gr 70 and A36

ASTM A515 Gr 70 is specified for carbon-silicon steel plates in pressure vessels for intermediate and higher temperatures, with a minimum tensile strength of 70 ksi (485 MPa). It features a silicon kill for finer grain structure, enhancing toughness.

ASTM A36 is a basic carbon structural steel for riveted, bolted, or welded construction, with a yield strength of 36 ksi (250 MPa). It is as-rolled and versatile for general use.

Gangsteel's ASTM A 516 GR 70 serves as a close alternative to A515 for pressure vessels, while our astm a 36 steel plate matches A36 for structural needs.

The table below summarizes key specs:

Property

A515 Gr 70

A36

Standard

ASTM A515/A515M

ASTM A36/A36M

Type

Carbon-silicon pressure vessel steel

Carbon structural steel

Yield Strength (min, ksi/MPa)

38 / 260

36 / 250

Tensile Strength (ksi/MPa)

70-90 / 485-620

58-80 / 400-550

Elongation (min, %)

17

20

Heat Treatment

Killed (fine-grained)

As-rolled

Applications

High-temp boilers, vessels

Buildings, bridges

 

Chemical Composition Comparison

A515 Gr 70 has higher silicon for high-temperature stability, while A36 has simpler limits. Typical values (in weight %, maximum unless specified):

Element

A515 Gr 70

A36

C (Carbon)

0.31

0.26

Mn (Manganese)

0.85-1.20

-

P (Phosphorus)

0.035

0.040

S (Sulfur)

0.035

0.050

Si (Silicon)

0.15-0.40

0.40

Cu (Copper)

-

0.20 (min if specified)

Gangsteel's ASME SA 516 GR 70 follows similar chemistry to A515 for pressure use.

 

Mechanical Properties Comparison

A515 Gr 70's higher tensile makes it stronger for pressure, while A36 prioritizes ductility. Typical values:

Property

A515 Gr 70

A36

Yield Strength (min, ksi/MPa)

38 / 260

36 / 250

Tensile Strength (ksi/MPa)

70-90 / 485-620

58-80 / 400-550

Elongation (min, % in 8")

17

20

Hardness (Brinell, approx)

143-187

119-162

Gangsteel's asme sa 36 steel plate provides A36-compliant properties for structures.

 

Applications and Interchangeability

A515 Gr 70 is for high-temperature pressure vessels like boilers, while A36 is for general structural elements. They are not interchangeable due to temperature and strength differences. Gangsteel's ASME SA 516 GR 60 offers a lower-strength alternative to A515.

 

FAQ

  • What is the main difference between A515 Gr 70 and A36?A515 Gr 70 is for high-temp pressure vessels (70 ksi tensile), A36 for structures (58 ksi).
  • Is A515 Gr 70 normalized?Killed for fine grain; not typically normalized like SA 516.
  • What is the yield strength of A515 Gr 70?Minimum 38 ksi (260 MPa), slightly higher than A36's 36 ksi.
  • Can A36 replace A515 Gr 70?No, due to lower strength and unsuitability for high temperatures.
  • Where can I buy A515 Gr 70 or A36 equivalents?Gangsteel offers compliant plates; contact for ASME SA 516 GR 70 or asme sa 36 steel plate.

 

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