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How Is A514 difference between A517 Specs?

Jan 05, 2026 Leave a message

How is  A514 difference between A517 Specs?

ASTM A514 and ASTM A517 are both specifications for high-yield-strength, quenched and tempered alloy steels, with identical chemical compositions for corresponding grades (A, B, E, F, H, P, Q).

However, they are not identical specifications: A514 is designated for structural applications (e.g., welded bridges), following ASTM A6 requirements, while A517 is for pressure vessel applications (e.g., fusion-welded boilers), following ASTM A20 requirements.

A517 emphasizes creep resistance and long-term stability in high-temperature environments, while A514 prioritizes weldability and structural integrity under heavy loads.

As a leading manufacturer and exporter, Gangsteel produces plates compliant with both specifications, offering ASTM A514/A514M steel plate and equivalents for structural or pressure vessel needs.

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Chemical Composition Comparison

The chemical compositions are identical for corresponding grades between A514 and A517. Below is a table for select grades (values in weight %, maximum unless range specified; heat analysis):

Element

Grade A (A514/A517)

Grade B (A514/A517)

Grade E (A514/A517)

Grade F (A514/A517)

Grade H (A514/A517)

Grade P (A514/A517)

Grade Q (A514/A517)

C

0.15-0.21

0.12-0.21

0.12-0.20

0.10-0.20

0.12-0.21

0.12-0.21

0.14-0.21

Mn

0.80-1.10

0.70-1.00

0.40-0.70

0.60-1.00

0.95-1.30

0.45-0.70

0.95-1.30

P (max)

0.035

0.035

0.035

0.035

0.035

0.035

0.035

S (max)

0.035

0.035

0.035

0.035

0.035

0.035

0.035

Si

0.40-0.80

0.20-0.35

0.20-0.40

0.15-0.35

0.20-0.35

0.20-0.35

0.15-0.35

Ni

-

-

-

0.70-1.00

0.30-0.70

1.20-1.50

1.20-1.50

Cr

0.50-0.80

0.40-0.65

1.40-2.00

0.40-0.65

0.40-0.65

0.85-1.20

1.00-1.50

Mo

0.18-0.28

0.15-0.25

0.40-0.60

0.40-0.60

0.20-0.30

0.45-0.60

0.45-0.60

V

-

0.03-0.08

-

0.03-0.08

0.03-0.08

-

0.03-0.08

Ti

-

0.01-0.03

0.01-0.10

-

-

-

-

Zr

0.05-0.15

-

-

-

-

-

-

Cu

-

-

-

0.15-0.50

-

-

-

B

0.0025

0.0005-0.005

0.001-0.005

0.0005-0.005

0.0005-0.005

0.001-0.005

0.001-0.005

Note: Dashes indicate no requirement. A517 may have additional restrictions on unspecified elements per A20.

 

Mechanical Properties Comparison

Mechanical properties are similar, but A517 has slightly higher tensile strength requirements (115-135 ksi vs. 110-130 ksi for A514 in most grades up to 2.5" thick). Yield strength is identical (100 ksi min. up to 2.5", 90 ksi for 2.5-6"). The table below shows typical values for both (ksi/MPa):

Property / Thickness

A514 (Up to 2.5")

A517 (Up to 2.5")

A514 (>2.5" to 6")

A517 (>2.5" to 6")

Yield Strength (min)

100 / 690

100 / 690

90 / 620

90 / 620

Tensile Strength

110-130 / 760-895

115-135 / 795-930

100-130 / 690-895

105-135 / 725-930

Elongation (min, %)

18

18

16

16

Brinell Hardness (HBW)

235-293

235-293

235-293

235-293

A517's higher tensile may suit pressure vessels better.

 

Thickness and Delivery Specifications

Maximum thicknesses are similar (e.g., 6" for most grades), but production limits vary (e.g., A517 Grade Q up to 8", A514 Grade Q up to 6"). A514 follows A6 (structural plate requirements), A517 follows A20 (pressure vessel plate requirements), which may include stricter controls on unspecified elements.

Heat Treatment and Testing Differences

Both require quenching and tempering (austenitizing ≥1650°F/900°C, tempering ≥1150°F/620°C). A517 may require additional testing for pressure vessel use. Both are susceptible to HAZ cracking during PWHT; pretesting recommended. Hardness (235-293 HBW) can substitute tensile tests for thin plates.

Applications

A514: Welded bridges, buildings, earthmoving equipment. A517: Fusion-welded boilers, pressure vessels. Gangsteel's plates suit both with versatile production.

 

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1. What is the typical impact toughness requirement for A514 Grade F?
A514 Grade F typically requires a minimum Charpy V-notch impact energy of 54 Joules (40 ft-lbs) at -40°C (-40°F), ensuring excellent fracture resistance in cold environments and dynamic loading applications.

2. How thick can A514 Grade F plates be ordered?
It is commonly produced in thicknesses up to 100 mm (4 inches) while maintaining full through-thickness properties, though some mills can supply thicker plates with adjusted mechanical guarantees.

3. What filler metals are recommended for welding A514 Grade F?
Welding requires matching high-strength, low-hydrogen electrodes such as E11018 or E12018 classifications, with strict adherence to preheat (300-400°F) and interpass temperature controls to prevent hydrogen cracking.

4. Does A514 Grade F require post-weld heat treatment (PWHT)?
Yes, PWHT is strongly recommended for most welded fabrications to relieve residual stresses and restore toughness in the heat-affected zone, particularly for thick sections and highly restrained joints.

5. Can A514 Grade F be flame-cut without special precautions?
Flame cutting requires preheating to 200-300°F before cutting to prevent hardening and micro-cracking along the cut edge, especially for thicknesses above 2 inches.

 

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.

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