Pressure Vessel Steel – Properties, Grades, and Applications
Introduction to Pressure Vessel Steel
Pressure vessel steel is a specially designed steel grade used in the manufacturing of boilers, storage tanks, and pressure vessels that operate under high pressure and temperature. It is engineered to offer high strength, excellent toughness, and resistance to heat and corrosion.
Industries such as oil & gas, chemical processing, power generation, and petrochemical rely on pressure vessel steel to ensure the safety and performance of critical equipment.
What is Pressure Vessel Steel?
Pressure vessel steel is a high-strength alloy or carbon steel designed to hold gases or liquids at pressures significantly higher than ambient levels. Its composition is carefully balanced to ensure ductility, weldability, and resistance to stress corrosion cracking.
Key Characteristics of Pressure Vessel Steel:
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High tensile and yield strength.
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Exceptional resistance to high temperatures.
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Excellent toughness and crack resistance.
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Superior weldability and formability.
Common Grades of Pressure Vessel Steel
Pressure vessel steels are classified under various international standards such as ASTM, ASME, EN, and DIN. Some common grades include:
1. ASTM / ASME Grades:
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ASTM A516 / ASME SA516 (Grades 55, 60, 65, 70): Widely used for medium and low-temperature service.
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ASTM A537 Class 1 & Class 2: Used for high-pressure applications and heat-treated for added strength.
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ASTM A285 (Grades A, B, C): Carbon steel plate for low-pressure service.
2. EN Standards:
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EN 10028 P265GH: Non-alloy steel for pressure vessels.
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EN 10028-2 P355GH: High-strength steel for high-temperature service.
3. Other Notable Grades:
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IS 2002: Indian standard for boiler and pressure vessel plates.
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A387 Chrome Moly Grades (5, 11, 22): Ideal for elevated temperatures and harsh conditions.
Chemical Composition (Example: ASTM A516 Grade 70)
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.27 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.85–1.20 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.13–0.45 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.035 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.035 |
Mechanical Properties (ASTM A516 Grade 70)
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 485–620 MPa |
| Yield Strength | ≥ 260 MPa |
| Elongation | 17% (minimum) |
Applications of Pressure Vessel Steel
1. Oil & Gas Industry
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Storage tanks for crude oil, LPG, and compressed gases.
2. Power Generation
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Boilers, heat exchangers, and steam turbines.
3. Chemical and Petrochemical Plants
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Reactors, autoclaves, and chemical storage units.
4. Food & Beverage Industry
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Sterilizers, fermenters, and storage tanks.
5. Shipbuilding and Marine
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LNG and LPG storage tanks, offshore platforms.
Advantages of Pressure Vessel Steel
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High-Temperature Resistance: Can withstand extreme heat and pressure.
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Excellent Weldability: Easy to fabricate into complex shapes.
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Long Service Life: Designed to resist fatigue and cracking.
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Wide Range of Grades: Suitable for both low and high-pressure applications.
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Compliance with Global Standards: Meets ASME, ASTM, and EN specifications.
Pressure Vessel Steel vs. Structural Steel
| Feature | Pressure Vessel Steel | Structural Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Application | High-pressure environments | Construction frameworks |
| Strength | High yield and tensile strength | Moderate strength |
| Temperature Resistance | High-temperature capable | Limited heat resistance |
| Standards | ASTM A516, A537, EN 10028 | ASTM A36, EN 10025 |
Testing and Quality Control
To ensure safety and reliability, pressure vessel steel undergoes:
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Ultrasonic testing for internal defects.
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Tensile and impact testing for strength.
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Charpy V-notch testing for toughness.
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Chemical analysis for compliance with standards.
Why Choose Titan Steel for Pressure Vessel Steel?
At Titan Steel, we offer premium pressure vessel steel plates and sheets in various grades and sizes.
Our Key Advantages:
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Stock of ASTM A516, A537, EN 10028, and chrome moly plates.
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Cut-to-size, bending, and machining services.
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Competitive pricing with on-time deliveries.
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ISO-certified quality control for industrial requirements.
Contact Us
Need pressure vessel steel plates for your next project?
👉 Get a Quote or call +91 7385863226.
Email: sales@titansteel.in
Visit: Plot No. 15, Khan Compound, Taloja M.I.D.C., Navi-Mumbai 410208, Maharashtra, INDIA.
Final Thoughts
Pressure vessel steel is the backbone of industries requiring safe storage and transportation of high-pressure gases and liquids. With its superior mechanical properties and durability, it remains the preferred choice for demanding applications.