ASTM A358 (ASME SA358) Nickel Stainless Steel Pipe
ASTM A358 (ASME SA358) Chromium Nickel Stainless Steel Pipe
ASTM A358 (or ASME SA358) is a standard specification for electric-fusion-welded austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steel pipe suitable for high-temperature and general corrosive service. This specification covers five classes of pipe and is applicable to both seamless and welded pipes.
Specification Overview
- Standard: ASTM A358 / ASME SA358
- Material: Austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steel
- Manufacturing Process: Electric-fusion-welded (EFW)
- Service: High-temperature and general corrosive service
- Classes: Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4, and Class 5
Classes of ASTM A358
- Class 1: Pipe shall be double welded by processes employing filler metal in all passes and shall be completely radiographed.
- Class 2: Pipe shall be double welded by processes employing filler metal in all passes. No radiography is required.
- Class 3: Pipe shall be single welded by processes employing filler metal in all passes and shall be completely radiographed.
- Class 4: Same as Class 3 except that the weld pass exposed to the inside pipe surface may be made without the addition of filler metal.
- Class 5: Pipe shall be double welded by processes employing filler metal in all passes and shall be spot radiographed.
Key Features
- High-Temperature Resistance: Suitable for use in applications where elevated temperatures are a concern.
- Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance to a variety of corrosive environments, including chemical and marine applications.
- Strength and Durability: High strength and durability due to the austenitic chromium-nickel steel composition.
- Versatility: Available in multiple classes to meet specific needs regarding welding and radiography requirements.
Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of ASTM A358 stainless steel varies depending on the specific grade, but generally includes:
- Chromium (Cr): Typically between 18-20%
- Nickel (Ni): Typically between 8-12%
- Carbon (C): A maximum of 0.08%
- Manganese (Mn): A maximum of 2%
- Silicon (Si): A maximum of 1%
- Phosphorus (P): A maximum of 0.045%
- Sulfur (S): A maximum of 0.03%
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties can also vary by grade, but common properties include:
- Tensile Strength: Minimum of 515 MPa (75,000 psi)
- Yield Strength: Minimum of 205 MPa (30,000 psi)
- Elongation: Minimum of 35% in 2 inches
Applications
- Chemical Processing: Due to its resistance to corrosive environments.
- Petrochemical Industry: For handling high-temperature fluids.
- Power Generation: In boilers and heat exchangers.
- Food and Beverage Industry: For sanitary piping and processing equipment.
- Marine Applications: For seawater handling systems.
Standards and Testing
- Radiographic Examination: Depending on the class, pipes may require complete, spot, or no radiographic examination.
- Hydrostatic Test: Pipes must pass a hydrostatic test to ensure they can withstand the required pressure.
- Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): Additional NDT methods such as ultrasonic testing may be employed depending on the service requirements.