SA517 Grade B is a high-strength, quenched and tempered alloy steel plate specified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), primarily engineered for use in pressure vessels, boilers, and other heavy-duty structural applications that demand exceptional tensile strength, excellent toughness at low temperatures, and superior weldability. This grade features a minimum tensile strength of 862 MPa (125 ksi) and a minimum yield strength of 690 MPa (100 ksi), with its heat treatment process of quenching and tempering ensuring uniform mechanical properties across the entire plate thickness. It is widely utilized in the construction of pressure-retaining equipment for the petrochemical, power generation, and heavy manufacturing industries, where resistance to extreme pressure, thermal cycling, and dynamic loading is critical to operational safety and structural integrity.
ASME SA517 Grade B Pressure Vessel Plate Material Chemical Composition:
|
MATERIAL |
C |
Mn |
Si |
P≤ |
S≤ |
|
SA517GRB |
0.13-0.23 |
0.64-1.1 |
0.13-0.37 |
0.035 |
0.035 |
ASME SA517 Grade B PVQ Steel Plate Mechanical Properties:
|
MATERIAL |
Tensile Strength(MPa) |
Yield Strength(MPa) MIN |
% Elongation MIN |
|
SA517GRB |
729-930 |
620 |
14 |
Applications
1. Petrochemical Industry
Fabrication of reactors, high-pressure storage tanks, heat exchangers, and distillation towers for crude oil refining, natural gas processing, and chemical synthesis.
2. Power Generation Industry
Manufacturing of boiler drums, headers, superheater tubes, and pressure pipelines for thermal power plants (coal-fired, gas-fired) and nuclear power auxiliary systems.
3. Oil & Gas Exploration & Transportation
Production of offshore platform pressure modules, subsea pipeline connectors, wellhead equipment, and onshore oil pipeline pressure sections.
4. Heavy Machinery & Equipment Manufacturing
Production of hydraulic press main frames, large forging machine structural components, mining pump pressure housings, and hydraulic support main bodies for mining machinery.
5. Aerospace Ground Support & Special Engineering
Fabrication of high-pressure fuel storage tanks for rocket launch ground support, high-pressure hydraulic jacks for bridge construction, and temporary pressure-bearing supports for large building projects.
Application Conditions
1. Petrochemical Industry
Operates under extreme pressure (up to 100MPa) and frequent thermal cycling (temperature range: -20℃ to 450℃). Resists corrosion from light hydrocarbons, chemical intermediates, and high-temperature steam. Requires long-term structural stability to avoid leakage of flammable and toxic media.
2. Power Generation Industry
Endures high temperature (350℃ to 550℃) and high pressure (60MPa to 90MPa) for continuous operation. Adapts to cyclic temperature changes during startup and shutdown. Must resist oxidation and creep deformation under long-term high-temperature exposure.
3. Oil & Gas Exploration & Transportation
For offshore scenarios, withstands saltwater corrosion, wave impact, and low-temperature environments (-30℃ to 300℃). For onshore use, resists soil corrosion and pressure fluctuations during oil/gas transmission. Requires excellent fatigue resistance to cope with long-term dynamic loads from fluid flow.
4. Heavy Machinery & Equipment Manufacturing
Bears heavy static loads (up to several thousand tons) and repeated dynamic loads. Operates in harsh environments such as mining sites with dust, vibration, and occasional impact. Maintains dimensional stability and high rigidity under extreme load conditions without deformation.
5. Aerospace Ground Support & Special Engineering
For aerospace support, withstands ultra-high pressure (120MPa to 150MPa) and low-temperature (-40℃ to 200℃) environments. For civil engineering, adapts to outdoor temperature changes (-20℃ to 60℃) and temporary heavy-load bearing. Requires strict leak-proof performance and structural reliability to ensure operational safety.
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Can SA517 Grade B be cold-formed?
It can be cold-formed, but due to its high strength, it requires higher forming forces. Preheating may be needed for complex shapes or thick plates to avoid cracking and reduce springback.
What is the modulus of elasticity of SA517 Grade B?
The modulus of elasticity is approximately 200 GPa (29,000 ksi) at room temperature. This value represents the material's stiffness, indicating how much it deforms under elastic load.
What is the yield-to-tensile ratio of SA517 Grade B?
The typical yield-to-tensile ratio is around 0.75-0.80. This ratio indicates the material's ability to withstand overload before reaching plastic deformation, ensuring a good balance of strength and safety margin.
What is the difference between SA517 Grade B and A516 Grade 70?
SA517 Grade B is a high-strength quenched and tempered alloy steel, while A516 Grade 70 is a carbon steel. SA517 B has higher strength and toughness, suitable for higher pressure/temperature, while A516 70 is for general pressure vessel use.
Can SA517 Grade B be used in offshore structures?
Yes, it is suitable for offshore oil and gas structures, such as platforms and subsea pipelines, due to its high strength, toughness, and resistance to harsh marine environments (with proper corrosion protection).
What are the storage requirements for SA517 Grade B plates?
Plates should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from moisture and corrosive substances. They should be stacked on wooden pallets to prevent contact with the ground and covered with waterproof sheets.
Are there any restrictions on the use of SA517 Grade B in hydrogen service?
It can be used in hydrogen service at moderate temperatures and pressures, but hydrogen embrittlement may occur at high temperatures/pressures. Proper heat treatment and material testing (e.g., hydrogen embrittlement tests) are required.
How is SA517 Grade B supplied (e.g., plate, sheet, coil)?
It is primarily supplied as plates, which is the most common form for pressure vessel and boiler applications. Sheets or coils are less common but can be produced for specific requirements with additional processing.
Can SA517 Grade B be machined easily?
It can be machined, but its high strength requires sharp cutting tools, proper cutting speeds, and coolants. Carbide tools are recommended for better performance, and machining parameters should be adjusted to avoid excessive tool wear.
What post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) is recommended for SA517 Grade B?
PWHT is usually recommended at 595-650°C (1103-1172°F) for 1-2 hours per inch of thickness. This reduces welding residual stress, improves toughness, and restores material properties near the weld zone.