Table of Contents
What is ASTM A312? Everything You Need to Know
1.0 What is ASTM A312?
1.1 Overview of ASTM A312
- ASTM A312 is a standard specification for seamless, welded, and heavily cold-worked austenitic stainless steel pipes.
- It is widely used in industries requiring reliable performance in high-temperature and corrosive environments.
- Pipe sizes covered range from 1/8” to 30” diameters and thicknesses from SCH 10S to SCH 80S.
- Common material grades include TP304/304L and TP316/316L, known for their durability and corrosion resistance.
1.2 Key Features of ASTM A312 Pipes
- High resistance to corrosion and oxidation.
- Suitable for extreme temperatures and pressure applications.
- Versatile manufacturing types, including seamless, welded, and heavily cold-worked pipes.
2.0 Material Grades
2.1 TP304/304L:
- Excellent general corrosion resistance.
- Cost-effective and commonly used in food, beverage, and sanitary applications.
2.2 TP316/316L:
- Enhanced resistance to chloride-induced corrosion.
- Preferred for marine and chemical processing applications.
3.0 Types of Pipes
3.1 Seamless Pipes (SMLS):
Made without welding; high strength and pressure resistance.
3.2 Welded Pipes (WLD):
Manufactured by automatic welding without filler metal.
3.3 Heavily Cold-Worked Pipes (HCW):
Produced by reducing thickness through cold working, providing enhanced mechanical properties.
4.0 Specifications
- Diameter Range: 1/8” to 30”.
- Wall Thickness: SCH 10S to SCH 80S.
- Heat Treatment: All pipes must undergo heat treatment for durability and corrosion resistance.
5.0 Applications
- Food and beverage industry.
- Chemical and petrochemical processing.
- Oil and gas transportation.
- Cryogenic systems and pressure containment.
6.0 Why Choose ASTM A312?
- Compliance with stringent international standards.
- Reliable performance in demanding environments.
- Long lifespan and cost-efficiency.
7.0 Conclusion
- ASTM A312 ensures consistent quality and reliability in stainless steel pipes for critical applications.
- Its versatile specifications make it a trusted choice across industries.
- For specific project needs, consult with industry experts to select the appropriate grade and type.
ASTM A312 Grades and Chemical Composition
Grade | UNS Designation | Carbon (%) | Chromium (%) | Nickel (%) | Molybdenum (%) | Nitrogen (%) |
TP304 | S30400 | 0.08 | 18.0-20.0 | 8.0-11.0 | – | – |
TP304L | S30403 | 0.035 | 18.0-20.0 | 8.0-13.0 | – | – |
TP316 | S31600 | 0.08 | 16.0-18.0 | 11.0-14.0 | 2.00-3.00 | – |
TP316L | S31603 | 0.035 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | 2.00-3.00 | – |
TP321 | S32100 | 0.08 | 17.0-19.0 | 9.0-12.0 | – | 0.10 |
Mechanical Properties
Grade | UNS Designation | Tensile Strength (min) [ksi/MPa] | Yield Strength (min) [ksi/MPa] |
TP304 | S30400 | 75 [515] | 30 [205] |
TP304L | S30403 | 70 [485] | 25 [170] |
TP316 | S31600 | 75 [515] | 30 [205] |
TP316L | S31603 | 70 [485] | 25 [170] |
TP321 | S32100 | 75 [515] (Welded) | 30 [205] |
References:
https://www.astm.org/a0312_a0312m-24b.html