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Carbon Steel Pipes: A53 Pipe, A106 Pipe, A333 Specifications

Learn about the 3 most common specifications for carbon pipes: ASTM A53 (black and galvanized steel pipes, seamless and welded), ASTM A106 (seamless CS tubular for high pressure and high-temperature applications up to 750 degrees F), and ASTM A333 (low-temperature service). The article gives you an overview of these three specifications in terms of typical uses, mechanical and chemical properties, and compares the differences between A53 vs. A106 pipes.

ASTM A53 Pipe

General Info: ASTM A53 Pipes

ASTM A53 is a standard specification published by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) that covers seamless and welded black and hot-dipped galvanized steel pipe.

Pipes ASTM A53 black steelASTM A53 PipesIt is widely used in various industries for conveying gas, water, oil, and other fluids. ASTM A53 pipes are commonly used in plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), fire protection, and structural applications. Here are some key features of ASTM A53 pipes:

Types

ASTM A53 specification covers two types of pipes:

TypeManufacturing Method
Type FFurnace-butt welded pipe with a continuous weld along the length of the pipe
Type EElectric-resistance-welded pipe with a longitudinal resistance weld
Type SSeamless pipe, produced by hot-working the steel and then cold-finishing it to produce the desired shape, dimensions, and properties

Grades

ASTM A53 pipes are available in three grades:

GradeDescription
Grade ASuitable for low-pressure and non-critical applications
Grade BThe most commonly used; suitable for general-purpose applications, including structural and mechanical applications
Grade CNot commonly used; suitable for certain specific applications that require higher tensile strength or enhanced corrosion resistance

Dimensions and Sizes

ASTM A53 pipes are available in a wide range of sizes and dimensions, ranging from 1/8 inch to 26 inches in nominal diameter. The wall thickness can vary depending on the nominal pipe size and grade.

Coatings

ASTM A53 pipes can be supplied with various coatings to enhance corrosion resistance and durability. The most common coatings include black or hot-dipped galvanized coatings. Galvanized pipes are coated with a layer of zinc to protect against corrosion and rust, making them suitable for outdoor and corrosive environments.

Applications

ASTM A53 pipes are used in a variety of applications, including:

  • Plumbing and water distribution systems
  • HVAC systems for heating and cooling
  • Fire protection systems, including sprinkler and standpipe systems
  • Structural applications, such as building frames, columns, and supports
  • Oil and gas pipelines for conveying fluids and gases

Quality Control

ASTM A53 specification includes requirements for chemical composition, mechanical properties, dimensions, tolerances, and testing to ensure the quality and integrity of the pipes. Manufacturers must adhere to these requirements to produce pipes that meet the specified standards.

Overall, ASTM A53 pipes are widely used for their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness in a variety of industrial and commercial applications. When selecting ASTM A53 pipes for a particular application, it is essential to consider factors such as the type, grade, size, and coating to ensure they meet the specific requirements and performance criteria.

A53 pipes convey fluids at low/medium pressures and are also used for mechanical applications. An A53 pipe can be welded, flanged, and shaped as necessary.

The ASME B36.10 specification covers A53 pipe dimensions (and weights per meter, in kg. and pounds).

ASTM A53 Chemical Composition

There are two ASTM A53 pipes grades, i.e. grades A and B. The two grades feature slight differences in terms of chemical composition (mainly Carbon and Manganese content) and mechanical properties – as shown in the pipe grades charts below:

Max. values (%)Type S Grade AType S Grade BType E Grade AType E Grade BType F Grade A
Carbon0.250.300.250.300.30
Manganese0.951.200.951.201.20
Phosphorous0.050.050.050.050.05
Sulfur0.0450.0450.0450.0450.045
Copper0.400.400.400.400.40
Nickel0.400.400.400.400.40
Chromium0.400.400.400.400.40
Molybdenum0.150.150.150.150.15
Vanadium0.080.080.080.080.08

A53 Gr. A/B Pipe Mechanical Properties

Seamless and ERWA53 Grade AA53 Grade B
Tensile Strength, min, psi48,00060,000
Yield Strength30,00035,000

A53 Pipe Physical Properties

PropertyValue
Density at 20°C7.85 kg/dm³
Modulus of elasticity at 20°C210 kN/mm²
Modulus of elasticity at 300°C192 kN/mm²
Modulus of elasticity at 400°C184 kN/mm²
Modulus of elasticity at 450°C179 kN/mm²
Thermal conductivity at 20°C51 W/m·K
Spec. thermal capacity at 20°C461 J/kg·K
Spec. electrical resistivity at 20°C0.20 Ω·mm²/m

Hot Forming and Heat Treatment

ProcessTemperatureCooling
Hot forming1100–950°CAir
Normalizing890–950°CAir
Stress-relieving anneal600–650°CAir

Notes: 1) Normalizing: Holding time 1 minute per mm plate thickness, minimum 30 minutes. 2) Stress-relieving anneal: Holding time 1-2 minutes per mm plate thickness, minimum 30 minutes.

Tolerances

The tolerances for ASTM A53 – ASME SA53 pipes are:

  • wall thickness: the thickness of the pipe (“WT”) shall be, at any point, not less than the nominal pipe size minus 12.5% (a wt of NPS -13% would not be, for instance, acceptable)
  • weight per foot: + / – 10%

Testing Requirements

Below are the required physical strength requirements under ASTM A53 Type E for grades A and B.

TestASTM A53 Grade AASTM A53 Grade B
Yield30,000 psi35,000 psi
Tensile48,000 psi60,000 psi
ElongationDetermined by formulaDetermined by formula

In addition to the chemical and physical analysis, the following tests are required under ASTM A53:

TestTest ASTM A53 – ASME SA53
FlatteningBend Test (Less than or equal to 2.375″ OD) *
HydrostaticTransverse Weld Tension (Equal to or greater than 8.625″ OD)

Pipe End Types

  • Pipe schedule below 0.500 inches and schedule STD / XS pipes: plain or beveled ends
  • Pipe schedule above 0.500 inches and schedule XXS: Squared cut plain ends

If pipes are supplied with threaded ends, protection for threads is mandatory for pipes above 4 inches.

Marking

Each length of pipe (or bundle for smaller diameters) shall have the following markings applied:

  • Manufacturer name
  • A53 type (S, E, F)
  • Diameter and schedule (from 10 to 160 and XXS)
  • Designation “ASTM A53”
  • Pipe length
  • Heat number

It is frequent to find pipes on the market pipes that comply, at the same time, with multiple standards: A53, A106, API 5L Gr. B. Such compliance is shown as a mark on the pipe itself.

Galvanized Pipe (ASTM A53)

General Info: ASTM A53 Galvanized Pipes

What are galvanized pipes?

Galvanized pipes are steel pipes that have been hot-dipped in a protective zinc coating to prevent corrosion and rust (the process is called “hot-dip galvanization”). Galvanized pipes were introduced in the sixties as an alternative to lead pipes for water transmission and distribution. After that, they have been used also for sewerage applications, firefighting, and general plumbing systems.

Galvanized carbon steel pipes

During the galvanization process, the zinc coating applies both to the outside and the inside of the pipe. The standard zinc coating is between 1.6 and 1.8 oz per square foot.

Galvanized pipes show long-lasting durability, improved resistance to corrosion compared to standard black steel, and are available at a relatively cheap price (and good toughness) compared to alternative metals (the price of galvanized pipe vs copper maybe, to give a general indication, 6 times lower per metric ton). As a rule of thumb, the galvanized price is between 40 and 50% higher than the price of black carbon pipes (the application of a zinc coating requires the transportation of the bare pipe to the galvanization plant, the application of zinc raw material on the pipe and other finishing activities).

On the other side, galvanized pipes are heavy, difficult to repair, and tend to develop blockages over time. The internal part of the pipe is subject to corrosion, and it’s not infrequent to find completely rusted galvanized pipes a few years after their installation.

ASTM A123, A153 and A53 Comparison

First and foremost, there is a difference between ASTM A53 and ASTM A153. Companies specialized in pipe galvanization are familiar with the ASTM A153 specification (“Standard Specification for Zinc Coating Hot-Dip) on Iron and Steel Hardware”.

Section 17 of the more general ASTM A53 specification, sets requirements for galvanized pipe, i.e. it requires the pipe to be hot-dip galvanized with a zinc grade by the B6 specification (Standard Specification for Zinc ) and specify the minimum weight per unit area of the coating.

The ASTM A53 specification does not set requirements related to the finishing, the appearance, or the adherence of the galvanized coating that is instead well defined in the ASTM A123 specification (Standard Specification for Zinc, Hot-Dip Galvanized, Coatings on Iron and Steel Product).

Further, the weight per unit area of the coating defined in the ASTM A53 specification corresponds to the minimum coating thickness requirements of ASTM A123. Therefore, the ASTM A123 specification is more stringent than ASTM A53 concerning the galvanized coating and whenever a pipe is galvanized according to ASTM A123, it meets the requirements of section 17 of ASTM A53 as well.

Conclusion: when a buyer requires galvanized pipes according to A53, a galvanization process in line with ASTM A123 meets the looser galvanization requirements set by ASTM A53.A

ASTM A106 Pipe

General Info: ASTM A106 Pipes

ASTM A106 is a standard specification for seamless carbon steel pipe for high-temperature service.

ASTM A106 seamless pipe

It is commonly used in various industries such as oil and gas, petrochemicals, power generation, and refineries. ASTM A106 pipes are suitable for bending, flanging, and similar forming operations, and for welding. Here are some key features of ASTM A106 pipes:

Types

ASTM A106 specification covers seamless carbon steel pipes for high-temperature service. There are three grades of ASTM A106 pipes:

GradeDescriptionMin. Tensile Strength
Grade ASuitable for bending, flanging, and similar forming operations, and for welding48,000 psi (330 MPa)
Grade BSuitable for bending, flanging, and similar forming operations, and for welding60,000 psi (415 MPa)
Grade CSuitable for flanging and similar forming operations, and for welding70,000 psi (485 MPa)

Chemical Composition (Overview)

The chemical composition of ASTM A106 pipes varies depending on the grade. Generally, the composition includes:

ElementGrade AGrade BGrade C
Carbon (C)Max 0.30%Max 0.35%Max 0.35%
Manganese (Mn)0.29-1.06%0.29-1.06%0.29-1.06%
Phosphorus (P)Max 0.035%Max 0.035%Max 0.035%
Sulfur (S)Max 0.035%Max 0.035%Max 0.035%
Silicon (Si)Min 0.10%Min 0.10%Min 0.10%

Dimensions and Sizes

ASTM A106 pipes are available in a wide range of sizes and dimensions, ranging from 1/8 inch to 26 inches in nominal diameter. The wall thickness can vary depending on the nominal pipe size and grade.

Applications

ASTM A106 pipes are used in high-temperature service applications such as:

  • Oil and gas pipelines
  • Power plants
  • Refineries
  • Petrochemical plants
  • Boiler tubes
  • Heat exchangers
  • High-pressure applications

Testing and Inspection

ASTM A106 pipes undergo various tests and inspections to ensure quality and performance. These may include hydrostatic testing, non-destructive testing (NDT), dimensional inspection, tensile testing, hardness testing, and chemical analysis.

Overall, ASTM A106 pipes are widely used for their reliability, durability, and suitability for high-temperature service applications. When selecting ASTM A106 pipes for a particular application, it is essential to consider factors such as grade, size, wall thickness, and end connections to ensure they meet the specific requirements and performance criteria.

The ASME B36.10 specification covers the ASTM A106 grade B pipe dimensions (and weights per meter, in kg. and pounds).

A106 Pipe Chemical Composition

ASTM A106 pipes are manufactured in grades A, B, and C.

NPS 1-1/2″ and below are available in the hot-finished or cold-drawn type. Pipes of NPS 2 inches and above are generally hot rolled. ASTM A106 pipes are produced out of killed steel and are suited for high-temperature service (for low temperatures, ASTM A333 pipes should be used instead).

The chemical composition of the three grades of ASTM A106 is shown in the following table:

ElementC maxMnP maxS maxSi minCr maxCu maxMo maxNi maxV max
ASTM A106 Grade A0.250.27–0.930.0350.0350.100.400.400.150.400.08
ASTM A106 Grade B0.300.29–1.060.0350.0350.100.400.400.150.400.08
ASTM A106 Grade C0.350.29–1.060.0350.0350.100.400.400.150.400.08

A106 Pipe Tolerance (ASTM)

The manufacturing tolerances of ASTM A106 pipes are shown in the tables below:

ParameterTolerance
DiameterSee diameter tolerance table below
Wall thicknessMin. WT shall not be below nominal pipe size minus 12.5% at any point
Weight-3.5% to +10% vs. specification

The weight test can be executed on lots for smaller nominal pipe sizes (below 4 inches) but must be executed pipe by pipe for higher diameters (6 inches and above).

Pipe Size (NPS)Over (inch)Over (mm)Under (inch)Under (mm)
1/8 to 1-1/2 [6 to 40] incl1/64 (0.015)0.41/64 (0.015)0.4
Over 1-1/2 to 4 [40 to 100] incl1/32 (0.031)0.81/32 (0.031)0.8
Over 4 to 8 [100 to 200] incl1/16 (0.062)1.61/32 (0.031)0.8
Over 8 to 18 [200 to 450] incl3/32 (0.093)2.41/32 (0.031)0.8
Over 18 to 26 [450 to 650] incl1/8 (0.125)3.21/32 (0.031)0.8
Over 26 to 34 [650 to 859] incl5/32 (0.156)4.01/32 (0.031)0.8
Over 34 to 48 [850 to 1200] incl3/16 (0.187)4.81/32 (0.031)0.8

A106 Gr. A/B Mechanical Properties

ASTM A106 pipeA106 Grade AA106 Grade BA106 Grade C
Tensile Strength, min., psi48,00060,00070,000
Yield Strength, min., psi30,00035,00040,000

Testing Requirements

TestNPSFrequency
Tensile Test5 and smallerOne length from each lot
Tensile TestOver 5One length from each lot of 500 or fraction

ASTM A333 Pipe

ASTM A333 pipe for low temperature service (Gr. 6)

ASTM A333 pipe for low-temperature service (Gr. 6)

ASTM A333 pipes are commonly used in various industries where low-temperature applications are encountered, such as cryogenic storage tanks, LNG (liquefied natural gas) plants, and refrigeration systems. Here are some key features of ASTM A333 pipes:

Types

ASTM A333 specification covers several grades of seamless and welded steel pipe:

GradeDescription
Grade 1Seamless and welded carbon and alloy steel pipe intended for use at low temperatures
Grade 3Intended for low temperatures with the addition of 0.12-0.21% manganese and 0.9-1.1% nickel
Grade 4Intended for low temperatures with the addition of 0.46-0.70% manganese, 0.40-0.60% copper, and 0.20-0.30% nickel
Grade 6Intended for low temperatures with the addition of 0.30-0.60% manganese, 0.60-1.35% silicon, and 0.04% phosphorus and sulfur

Chemical Composition (Overview)

The chemical composition of ASTM A333 pipes varies depending on the grade. Generally, it includes carbon, manganese, phosphorus, sulfur, silicon, nickel, and other alloying elements.

The maximum carbon content ranges from 0.30% to 0.30% depending on the grade, while the maximum manganese content ranges from 0.40% to 1.35%. Other elements are present in smaller amounts to achieve desired properties.

Mechanical Properties (Overview)

ASTM A333 pipes undergo various tests to ensure compliance with mechanical property requirements. These tests may include tensile, yield, and elongation testing, as well as impact testing at low temperatures.

Each grade of ASTM A333 pipe has specific mechanical property requirements, including minimum tensile strength, minimum yield strength, and minimum elongation.

Dimensions and Sizes

ASTM A333 pipes are available in a wide range of sizes and dimensions, ranging from 1/8 inch to 26 inches in nominal diameter. The wall thickness can vary depending on the nominal pipe size and grade.

Applications

ASTM A333 pipes are used in various low-temperature applications, including:

  • Cryogenic storage tanks
  • LNG (liquefied natural gas) plants
  • Refrigeration systems
  • Low-temperature process piping
  • Low-temperature service in pressure systems

Welding

ASTM A333 pipes are weldable using conventional welding methods. However, preheating and post-weld heat treatment may be necessary to prevent cracking and ensure proper mechanical properties, especially for Grade 6 pipes.

Overall, ASTM A333 pipes are widely used for their suitability in low-temperature service applications where cryogenic conditions or low-temperature process requirements exist. When selecting ASTM A333 pipes for a specific application, it is essential to consider factors such as grade, size, wall thickness, and end connections to ensure they meet the specific requirements and performance criteria.

ASTM A333 Chemical Composition

ElementGrade 1Grade 3Grade 4Grade 6Grade 7Grade 8Grade 9Grade 10Grade 11
C0.300.190.120.300.190.130.200.200.10
Mn0.40–1.060.31–0.640.50–1.050.29–1.060.900.900.40–1.061.15–1.500.60
P0.0250.0250.0250.0250.0250.0250.0250.0350.025
S0.0250.0250.0250.0250.0250.0250.0250.0150.025
Si0.18–0.370.08–0.370.10 min0.13–0.320.13–0.320.10–0.350.35
Ni3.18–3.820.47–0.980.402.03–2.578.40–9.601.60–2.240.2535.0–37.0
Cr0.44–1.010.300.150.50
Cu0.40–0.750.400.75–1.250.15
Al0.04–0.300.06
V0.080.12
Cb0.020.05
Mo0.120.050.50
Co0.50

*For Grade 1 and 6, each reduction of 0.01% C below 0.30%, an increase of 0.05 % Mn above 1.06 % would be permitted to a max. of 1.35%. *For Grade 6, the limit for columbium may be increased up to 0.05 % on heat analysis and 0.06 % on product analysis. *Generally, the carbon equivalent C.E = [C + Mn/6 + (Cr + Mo + V)/5 + (Ni + Cu)/15] shall not exceed 0.43% by heat analysis.

ASTM A333 Mechanical Properties

GradeTensile (psi)Tensile (MPa)Yield (psi)Yield (MPa)Elong. Long. %Elong. Trans. %
Grade 155 00038030 0002053525
Grade 365 00045035 0002403020
Grade 460 00041535 0002403016.5
Grade 660 00041535 0002403016.5
Grade 765 00045035 0002403022
Grade 8100 00069075 00051522
Grade 963 00043546 00031528
Grade 1080 00055065 00045022
Grade 1165 00045035 00024018

*The elongation values are furnished based on standard round 2-inch or 50 mm(or 4D) specimens. *Elongation of Grade 11 is for all walls and small sizes tested in full section.

Charpy V-notch Impact Tests A333 Pipes

Specimen Size (mm)Min. Avg. (ft·lbf)Min. Avg. (J)Min. Single (ft·lbf)Min. Single (J)
10 by 1013181014
10 by 7.51014811
10 by 6.6791279
10 by 57957
10 by 3.335734
10 by 2.54534

*A denotes minimum average notched bar impact value of each set of three specimens. *B denotes minimum notched bar impact value of one specimen only of a set.

GradeMin. Temp. (°F)Min. Temp. (°C)
1-50-45
3-150-100
4-150-100
6-50-45
7-100-75
8-320-195
9-100-75
10-75-60
11-320-195
  • Impact tests specified for temperatures lower than 70 °F [20 °C] should be made with precautions.

Heat Treatment Pipes ASTM A333

Heat treatment of pipes manufactured to ASTM A333 specifications is crucial to control their microstructure and enhance their mechanical properties. Here’s an overview of the heat treatment requirements for ASTM A333 pipes.

TreatmentApplicable GradesTemperatureCooling Method
NormalizationAll except Grades 8 and 11Min. 1500 °F [815 °C]Air or controlled furnace cooling; optional re-heat to tempering temperature
Hot Finishing (seamless only)As required1550-1750 °F [845-945 °C]Air or controlled atmosphere furnace from min. 1550 °F [845 °C]
Quench and TemperGrades 1, 6, 10 (seamless)Min. 1500 °F [815 °C]Quenching in liquid, then re-heat to tempering temperature
Quench/Temper or Double NormalizationGrade 8Per manufacturerPer method selected
Annealing + NormalizationGrade 111400-1600 °F [760-870 °C]Per specification

Normalization

Pipes, both seamless and welded, except for Grades 8 and 11, must undergo normalization. This process involves heating the pipes to a uniform temperature of at least 1500 °F [815 °C]. After heating, the pipes are cooled either in the air or in the controlled cooling chamber of a furnace. Alternatively, the pipes can be re-heated to a suitable tempering temperature at the discretion of the manufacturer.

Hot Finishing (Seamless Pipes Only)

For seamless pipes, an additional step known as hot finishing may be required. This involves reheating the pipes to a finishing temperature range of 1550 to 1750 °F [845 to 945 °C]. Hot working and temperature control during the hot-finishing operation are carefully managed to ensure the desired microstructure and properties.

Following hot finishing, the pipes are cooled either in air or in a controlled atmosphere furnace from an initial temperature of no less than 1550 °F [845 °C]. Alternatively, the pipes can be re-heated to a suitable tempering temperature.

Grade-Specific Treatments

Seamless pipes of Grades 1, 6, and 10 may undergo heat treatment by being heated to a uniform temperature of at least 1500 °F [815 °C], followed by quenching in a liquid and subsequent reheating to an appropriate tempering temperature.

Special Considerations for Grades 8 and 11

ASTM A333 Grade 8 pipes require heat treatment by either quenching and tempering or double normalization and tempering methods. Grade 11 pipes, when required, shall undergo annealing followed by normalization within the temperature range of 1400 to 1600 °F [760 to 870 °C].

Proper heat treatment is essential to ensure that ASTM A333 pipes meet the specified mechanical properties, including tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation, as well as the desired microstructure for the intended application.

Conclusion

In summary, while both ASTM A53 and ASTM A106 pipes are widely used in various industries, ASTM A53 is suitable for low-pressure and non-critical applications, while ASTM A106 is suitable for high-temperature service applications. The choice between the two specifications depends on factors such as operating conditions, pressure, temperature, and specific requirements of the application. ASTM A333 pipes are used for low-temperature applications and are available in several grades (A333 Gr.6 being the most common).

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This blog on ASTM carbon steel pipes is a great resource for anyone looking to understand the various grades like A53, A106, and A333, along with their specifications and applications. The clear explanation of how these materials are used in oil and gas pipelines, as well as in other industries, was exactly the kind of information I needed. It also covers their quality standards and manufacturing processes. If you're looking for detailed insights on carbon steel pipes, this is a must-read.