
ASTM A516 Grade 70 is a robust, pressure vessel quality (PVQ) carbon steel plate designed for moderate to lower-temperature service, known for its strength, weldability, and notch toughness, making it ideal for boilers, storage tanks, and chemical processing equipment. It offers higher strength than other A516 grades (like 55, 60, 65) with a tensile strength of 70-90 ksi (485-620 MPa).
| Mechanical Properties | Metric | English | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength, Ultimate | 485 - 620 MPa | 70300 - 89900 psi | |
| Tensile Strength, Yield | 260 MPa | 37700 psi | |
| Elongation at Break | 17 % | 17 % | in 200mm |
| 21 % | 21 % | in 50mm | |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 200 GPa | 29000 ksi | Typical Carbon Steel |
| Bulk Modulus | 160 GPa | 23200 ksi | Typical for Steel |
| Poissons Ratio | 0.29 | 0.29 | Typical Carbon Steel |
| Shear Modulus | 80.0 GPa | 11600 ksi | Typical for Steel |
| Electrical Properties | Metric | English | Comments |
| Electrical Resistivity | 0.0000170 ohm-cm | 0.0000170 ohm-cm | Typical Carbon Steel |
| Thermal Properties | Metric | English | Comments |
| CTE, linear | 12.0 µm/m-°C | 6.67 µin/in-°F | Typical Carbon Steel |
| Specific Heat Capacity | 0.470 J/g-°C | 0.112 BTU/lb-°F | Typical Carbon Steel |
| Thermal Conductivity | 52.0 W/m-K | 361 BTU-in/hr-ft²-°F | Typical Carbon Steel |
| Component Elements Properties | Metric | English | Comments |
| Carbon, C | 0.31 % | 0.31 % | may vary with plate thickness |
| Iron, Fe | 98.315 % | 98.315 % | as balance |
| Manganese, Mn | 0.85 - 1.2 % | 0.85 - 1.2 % | |
| Phosphorus, P | 0.035 % | 0.035 % | |
| Silicon, Si | 0.15 - 0.40 % | 0.15 - 0.40 % | |
| Sulfur, S | 0.040 % | 0.040 % | |
applications
Pressure Vessels:
The most common use, for containing liquids and gases under pressure, including those in petrochemical and chemical processing. It is widely specified for reactors, separators, and other critical equipment where reliable performance under high pressure and temperature cycling is essential.
Boilers & Heat Exchangers:
Ideal for power generation and industrial heating due to its thermal stability and weldability. It is used in boiler drums, headers, and heat exchanger tubesheets, where it must withstand elevated temperatures and repeated thermal stress.
Storage Tanks:
Used for storing liquids at moderate temperatures, including API 650/620 tanks. Its good weldability and resistance to brittle fracture make it suitable for large-volume storage of crude oil, refined products, and chemicals.
Piping & Compressors:
Components for pressurized systems. It is employed in high-pressure pipelines and compressor parts that require strength and toughness under continuous operation.
Construction:
Structural tubing, lighting standards, transmission poles, and parts for heavy equipment. Its balanced properties make it a cost-effective choice for structural applications requiring durability.
Transportation:
Automotive and truck parts, railroad cars, and cargo containers. It provides the necessary strength and formability for heavy-duty transportation equipment, ensuring long service life under harsh conditions.
For more details about GNEE's steel products, contact us at beam@gneesteelgroup.com. We look forward to working with you.
What is the difference between A36 and A516-70?
ASTM A516 GR 70 outperforms ASTM A36 in tensile strength, low-temperature toughness, and pressure vessel applications, while A36 is better suited for general structural uses.
What welding rod for A516 grade 70?
For welding ASTM A516 Grade 70 steel, common and recommended welding rods (electrodes/filler metals) include E7018 (for SMAW), ER70S-6 (for GMAW), and E71T-1C (for FCAW), as they match the material's strength and suitability for low-temperature service, often requiring low-hydrogen or controlled heat input for best results.

