ASTM A517 Grade B is a quenched and tempered high-strength alloy steel plate specified in ASTM A517/A517M, primarily used in the fabrication of welded pressure vessels, storage tanks, heat exchangers, and other structural components that require excellent strength, toughness, and weldability. The steel is alloyed with chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, and small amounts of boron to achieve a high yield strength combined with good low-temperature impact properties. It is typically supplied in the quenched and tempered condition, which refines the microstructure and ensures consistent mechanical performance across a range of thicknesses. Due to its balanced properties, ASTM A517 Grade B is widely employed in heavy machinery, offshore structures, and pressure-containing equipment operating under demanding service conditions.
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A517 grade BChemical Composition |
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Grade |
The Element Max (%) |
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C |
Si |
Mn |
P |
S |
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A517 grade B |
0.13-0.23 |
0.13-0.37 |
0.64-1.10 |
0.035 |
0.035 |
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Cr |
Mo |
B |
Ti |
V |
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0.36-0.69 |
0.12-0.28 |
0.0005-0.005 |
0.01-0.05 |
0.02-0.09 |
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Grade |
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A517 grade B Mechanical Property |
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Thickness |
Yield |
Tensile |
Elongation |
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A517 grade B |
mm |
Min Mpa |
Mpa |
Min % |
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6-65 |
690 |
795-930 |
16% |
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65-150 |
620 |
725-930 |
14% |
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processing
1. Melting and Refining
The steel is melted in a basic oxygen or electric arc furnace, with strict control over chemical composition to ensure proper hardenability and weldability. Refining processes reduce impurities such as sulfur and phosphorus, improving cleanliness and mechanical properties.
2. Casting and Reheating
After refining, the steel is cast into ingots or continuously cast into slabs. These are then reheated to a suitable temperature to prepare for hot rolling.
3. Hot Rolling and Controlled Cooling
The material is hot rolled to the desired thickness, with controlled rolling and accelerated cooling used to refine the grain structure and enhance strength and toughness.
4. Quenching and Tempering
The plates are quenched in water or oil to form a hard martensitic structure, then tempered at a moderate temperature to relieve stresses and improve toughness while maintaining high strength.
5. Straightening and Inspection
Heat-treated plates are straightened to ensure flatness. Non-destructive testing, such as ultrasonic inspection, checks for internal defects. Surface inspection and cutting to size complete the processing.
applications
1. Pressure Vessels and Boilers
It is commonly used in the fabrication of pressure vessels, boilers, and storage tanks that operate under high pressure and temperature, thanks to its excellent strength and toughness.
2. Heavy Machinery and Equipment
The steel is suitable for heavy machinery components such as crane booms, hydraulic supports, and mining equipment, where high load-bearing capacity and durability are required.
3. Offshore and Marine Structures
A517 Grade B is used in offshore platforms, shipbuilding, and other marine applications due to its good weldability and resistance to harsh environmental conditions.
4. Bridges and High-Rise Buildings
It finds application in the construction of large-span bridges, high-rise buildings, and other critical structures that demand superior strength and structural integrity.
5. Nuclear and Power Generation Facilities
The material is also utilized in nuclear power plants and thermal power stations for components that require high strength, toughness, and reliability under extreme operating conditions.
Full specification and details are available on request. The above information is provided for guidance purposes only. For specific design requirements please contact our technical sales staff.
Can A517 Grade B be used in low-temperature environments?
Yes, it is suitable for low-temperature environments. Its good low-temperature toughness can effectively prevent brittle fracture, making it ideal for cold regions or low-temperature pressure systems.
What is the difference between A517 Grade B and A516 Grade 70?
A517 Grade B is high-strength quenched and tempered steel, while A516 Grade 70 is carbon steel. The former has higher tensile/yield strength and better toughness, suitable for more demanding working conditions.
What surface treatment methods are suitable for A517 Grade B?
Suitable surface treatments include sandblasting, pickling, phosphating and painting. These methods can remove surface impurities, prevent corrosion and effectively extend the service life of steel components.
What is the elongation requirement of A517 Grade B?
A517 Grade B requires a minimum elongation of 18% in the tensile test. This parameter indicates its good ductility, allowing the steel to undergo a certain degree of plastic deformation without breaking.
Is A517 Grade B resistant to corrosion?
It has moderate corrosion resistance in normal environments, but additional protection such as coating or galvanizing is needed in harsh corrosive settings like marine or chemical industries.
What is the hardness range of A517 Grade B after heat treatment?
After quenching and tempering, A517 Grade B has a hardness range of 229-285 HB (Brinell Hardness), which ensures the steel has good wear resistance and structural strength in service.
Can A517 Grade B be machined easily?
It can be machined with proper tools and parameters. Due to its high strength, compared with ordinary carbon steel, it may require higher cutting forces and wear-resistant machining tools.
What is the purpose of post-weld heat treatment for A517 Grade B?
Post-weld heat treatment can relieve residual stresses in the weld zone, improve weld toughness, reduce the risk of weld cracking, and ensure the overall performance of the welded component.
What are the dimensions of A517 Grade B plates commonly available?
Common dimensions are 1500-4000 mm in width, 6000-12000 mm in length, and 6-200 mm in thickness. These dimensions can be flexibly adjusted according to customer needs.
What is the density of A517 Grade B?
The density of A517 Grade B is approximately 7.85 g/cm³, the same as most carbon and alloy steels. This value is widely used for weight calculation in engineering projects.


