What is the Difference Between ASME SA 516 GR 70 and 60?

ASME SA 516 GR 70 offers a higher tensile strength of 485-620 MPa compared to GR 60’s 415-550 MPa, prioritizing strength over ductility for high-pressure vessels.At Gangsteel, we manufacture both ASME SA 516 GR 70 and ASME SA 516 GR 60 plates, tailored for pressure vessel applications. This article compares their chemical composition, mechanical properties, and applications to guide material selection.

Overview of SA 516 GR 70 and GR 60

ASME SA 516 is a carbon steel specification for pressure vessel plates used in moderate and low-temperature service, with grades 70 and 60 being two of the most common. SA 516 GR 70, equivalent to ASTM A 516 GR 70, is designed for high-pressure applications requiring superior strength, while SA 516 GR 60, equivalent to ASTM A 516 GR 60, offers higher ductility for moderate-pressure vessels. Both grades are fine-grain treated, ensuring excellent toughness and weldability.

Gangsteel produces SA 516 plates with rigorous testing, including HIC resistance for sour service, making them ideal for oil, gas, and petrochemical industries.

Chemical Composition Comparison

The chemical compositions of SA 516 GR 70 and GR 60 differ slightly, with GR 70 having a higher carbon content for increased strength:

Gangsteel’s SA 516 GR 70 plates are tested for HIC per NACE TM0284, with sulfur content as low as 0.003%, ensuring reliability in sour gas environments. SA 516 GR 60, with its lower carbon content, offers enhanced weldability for less demanding applications.

Mechanical Properties Comparison

The mechanical properties highlight the trade-off between strength and ductility:

These properties are verified through ASTM E8 (tension testing) and ASTM E23 (impact testing). Gangsteel’s SA 516 plates, including ASME SA 516 GR 65, are designed to meet ASME BPVC requirements, ensuring safety and performance.

Applications and Selection Criteria

• SA 516 GR 70 Applications:
  • Oil and Gas: High-pressure pressure vessels and pipelines, especially in sour gas environments requiring HIC resistance.
  • Petrochemical: Reactors and heat exchangers handling high pressures up to 500 bar.
  • Power Generation: Boilers operating at temperatures up to 450°C, where strength is critical.
• SA 516 GR 60 Applications:
  • Oil and Gas: Moderate-pressure storage tanks and pipelines.
  • Petrochemical: Heat exchangers and vessels with less stringent pressure requirements.
  • Industrial Fabrication: Structural components where higher ductility is needed.

Gangsteel recommends SA 516 GR 70 for applications requiring robust strength and HIC resistance, such as sour gas pipelines, while SA 516 GR 60 is ideal for cost-effective, moderate-pressure applications. Our plates are available in thicknesses from 6mm to 200mm (custom up to 300mm), with widths up to 4,500mm and lengths up to 12,000mm.

Why Choose SA 516 GR 70 Over GR 60?

SA 516 GR 70 offers several advantages for high-pressure applications:

• Higher Strength: 485-620 MPa tensile strength supports more demanding pressure conditions compared to GR 60’s 415-550 MPa.
• HIC Resistance: Tested per NACE TM0284, GR 70 is ideal for sour service, reducing the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking.
• Versatility: Suitable for a broader range of pressures and temperatures, making it a go-to choice for critical projects.

SA 516 GR 60, however, is preferred for applications where ductility and cost are prioritized, such as low-pressure storage tanks or less aggressive environments. Its higher elongation (21-25%) makes it easier to form and weld for certain fabrications.

Gangsteel’s Commitment to SA 516 Quality

Gangsteel ensures the quality of both SA 516 GR 70 and GR 60 through:

• Controlled Rolling: Produces fine-grain plates for enhanced toughness.
• Heat Treatment: Normalizing at 900-950°C or stress-relieving at 620-650°C to optimize weldability and mechanical properties.
• Testing: Ultrasonic (ASTM A435), HIC (NACE TM0284), and Charpy V-notch impact tests at -46°C.
• Certifications: MTCs per EN 10204 3.1, verified by SGS and BV.

Our global supply chain supports exports to over 50 countries, with delivery to Asia in 3-7 days. Gangsteel’s SA 516 plates, such as ASTM A 516 GR 55, are designed for seamless integration with other ASME-compliant components.

Conclusion

ASME SA 516 GR 70 provides higher tensile strength (485-620 MPa) and is suited for high-pressure, sour service applications, while SA 516 GR 60 offers greater ductility (415-550 MPa) for moderate-pressure vessels. Gangsteel’s ASME SA 516 GR 70 and ASME SA 516 GR 60 plates are engineered to meet ASME BPVC standards, ensuring reliability and performance for global pressure vessel projects. Contact Gangsteel for tailored solutions and competitive pricing.

Keywords: ASME SA 516 GR 70 vs 60, carbon steel comparison, pressure vessel plates, Gangsteel SA 516