Factors affecting the price of SA387 Grade 22 Class 2
SA387 Grade 22 Class 2 is a specific grade of chrome-molybdenum (Cr-Mo) alloy steel plate designed for high-temperature and high-pressure service. It is primarily used in the construction of pressure vessels, boilers, and reactors in industries like oil refineries, petrochemical plants, and power generation.
The price of SA387 Grade 22 Class 2 is not fixed and fluctuates based on a combination of global market forces and specific purchase requirements.
1. Raw Material & Global Market Factors
Cost of Alloying Elements: The price of chromium and molybdenum on the London Metal Exchange (LME) or similar markets is a primary driver. Market volatility directly impacts the base cost.
Steel Scrap & Iron Ore Prices: As a commodity, its price is tied to broader steelmaking raw material costs.
Global Supply & Demand: High demand from sectors like energy (oil & gas, power generation) and low inventory levels can drive prices up. Economic slowdowns in these sectors can lower demand and price.
Import/Export Duties & Tariffs: Trade policies, such as anti-dumping duties in various countries, can significantly alter the landed cost of material from foreign mills.
2. Mill-Related & Product Factors
Mill Source & Brand: Premium mills from established producers (e.g., in Europe, Japan, or the USA) command higher prices than material from other sources, reflecting quality assurance, certification, and reputation.
Plate Dimensions: Thickness and width are critical. Thicker plates and extra-wide plates are more expensive due to more complex rolling processes, limited mill capacity, and higher material use.
Quantity (Volume): Larger order volumes typically secure a lower price per ton/kg due to economies of scale for the mill or distributor.
Heat Treatment: SA387 Grade 22 Class 2 specifically requires Normalizing & Tempering (N&T). The cost of this precise, energy-intensive thermal cycle is built into the price. Class 1 (annealed) material is generally cheaper.
3. Purchase-Specific & Logistics Factors
Certification & Testing Requirements: Standard Mill Test Reports (MTRs) are included. However, requiring additional testing (e.g., extra impact tests, UT inspection, third-party certification) adds cost.
Processing & Delivery: If the supplier provides value-added services like cutting to size, edge preparation (beveling), or priming, this increases the cost. Delivery location and freight costs are also significant add-ons.
Lead Time: Requiring material from stock (ex-warehouse) often carries a premium. Orders for future mill production (with longer lead times) can be cheaper.
Summary of Key Cost Drivers:
| High-Level Factor | Specific Cost Drivers |
|---|---|
| Commodity Market | Prices of Cr, Mo, scrap, and iron ore; Global supply/demand. |
| Product Specifications | Plate thickness & width; N&T heat treatment (Class 2). |
| Source & Quality | Mill brand/origin; Required certifications & testing. |
| Order Logistics | Purchase volume; Processing services; Delivery & freight. |
In essence, a thick, extra-wide plate of certified SA387 Gr 22 Cl 2 from a premium European mill, ordered in a small quantity with urgent delivery during a period of high molybdenum prices, will be at the highest end of the cost spectrum. Conversely, a standard-size plate from stock in a large volume during a market low will be more economical. Buyers must clearly define their technical and commercial requirements to get an accurate quote.
1. What is SA387 Grade 22 Class 2?
SA387 Grade 22 Class 2 is a specification for chromium-molybdenum alloy steel plates primarily used in pressure vessels and other high-temperature service applications.
2. What is the chemical composition of SA387 Grade 22 Class 2?
Its typical composition includes chromium (2.00-2.50%), molybdenum (0.90-1.10%), with carbon, manganese, phosphorus, sulfur, and silicon making up the remainder.
3. What are the mechanical properties of SA387 Gr 22 Cl 2?
Key mechanical properties include a minimum tensile strength of 515 MPa (75 ksi) and a minimum yield strength of 310 MPa (45 ksi) for plates over 65mm thick.
4. What is the difference between SA387 Grade 22 Class 1 and Class 2?
The primary difference is heat treatment; Class 2 material is required to be supplied in the normalized and tempered condition, while Class 1 does not have this mandatory requirement, affecting its strength and microstructure.
5. What is the maximum service temperature for SA387 Grade 22?
SA387 Grade 22 is commonly used for service temperatures up to approximately 550°C (1022°F), but specific limits depend on the pressure and stress conditions.
6. Is SA387 Grade 22 Class 2 equivalent to any other material grade?
Yes, it is broadly equivalent to ASTM A387 Gr22 Cl2, ASME SA387 Gr22 Cl2, and the common wrought material grade UNS K21590.
7. How to weld SA387 Grade 22 Class 2 steel?
Welding typically requires pre-heat and post-weld heat treatment (PWHT). Common filler metals include AWS E9015-B3 for SMAW or corresponding grades for other processes to match the base metal's properties.
8. What is the heat treatment for SA387 Gr22 Cl2?
SA387 Grade 22 Class 2 plates are supplied in the normalized (at 1650-1750°F) and tempered (at 1250-1350°F) condition to achieve the required mechanical properties.
9. Where is SA387 Grade 22 Class 2 commonly used?
It is extensively used in the fabrication of pressure vessels, boilers, and reactors for the power generation, petrochemical, and oil & gas industries, especially for components exposed to high temperatures and pressures.
10. What are the hardness requirements for SA387 Grade 22 Class 2?
While the ASTM/ASME specification does not mandate a specific hardness, it is typically controlled during heat treatment. A common requirement in service is to maintain a maximum hardness, often 225 Brinell (HBW) or lower, to prevent issues like hydrogen-induced cracking.
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.
