ASTM A178 ERW Steel Pipe
ASTM A178 Electric-Resistance-Welded (ERW) Steel Pipe
ASTM A178 specifies the requirements for electric-resistance-welded (ERW) carbon steel and carbon-manganese steel boiler and superheater tubes. These welded tubes are intended for use in boiler tubes, boiler flues, superheater flues, and safe ends. They are manufactured from hot-rolled steel.
Types and Grades
ASTM A178 includes several grades, each tailored to specific applications, with variations in chemical composition and mechanical properties. The common grades are:
- Grade A
- Grade C
- Grade D
Chemical Composition
The chemical composition for each grade is as follows:
Element | Grade A (% Max) | Grade C (% Max) | Grade D (% Max) |
---|---|---|---|
Carbon (C) | 0.06 – 0.18 | 0.35 | 0.27 |
Manganese (Mn) | 0.27 – 0.63 | 0.80 – 1.15 | 0.29 – 1.06 |
Phosphorus (P) | 0.035 | 0.035 | 0.035 |
Sulfur (S) | 0.035 | 0.035 | 0.035 |
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties required for ASTM A178 are specified as follows:
Property | Grade A | Grade C | Grade D |
---|---|---|---|
Tensile Strength (MPa) | 325 (Min) | 485 (Min) | 415 (Min) |
Yield Strength (MPa) | 180 (Min) | 275 (Min) | 240 (Min) |
Elongation (%) | 35 (Min) | 30 (Min) | 30 (Min) |
ASTM A178 ERW Pipe/Tube Cruch Test:
Steel Grade | WallThickness of Tubes, in. [mm] | Heightof Crushed Section, in. [mm] | |
---|---|---|---|
Grade A Tubes | Grade C and D Tubes | ||
ASTM A178 | 0.135[3.43] and under | 3/4[19] or until outside folds are in contact | Crushtests not required |
Over0.135 [3.43] | 11/4 [32] | … |
Comparison Tables (ASTM °CKS, JIS, DIN, BS, NBN, NF, UNI):
ASTM STANDARD | UNS NO. | KOREA/JAPANES | GERMAN | BRITISH | BELGIAN | FRENCH | ITALIAN | |||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
KS/JIS Symbol | KS/JIS Numbe | Remarks | DIN Type | DIN Number |
Materiral Number |
Remarks | B.S Number |
B.S Grade | NBN Type | NBN Grade | Remarks | AFNOR Type | NF Number | Ramarks | UNI Type | UNI Number | Ramarks | |||
A 178 C-Steel Electric-Resistance-Welded Boiler Tubes |
||||||||||||||||||||
Grade A | K01200 | STBH 340/ STB 35 | D3563 / G3461 | St 37.8 | 17177 | 1.0315 | (7) | 3059 | ERW 320 | (3) | (3) | |||||||||
Grade c | K03503 | SHBH 410 / STB 42 | D3563 / G3461 | St 42.8 | 17177 | 1.0498 | (7) | (3) | (3) |
Dimensions and Tolerances
ASTM A178 tubes are available in various sizes, with the following common dimensions:
- Outside Diameter (OD): 12.7 mm to 114.3 mm (0.5 inch to 4.5 inches)
- Wall Thickness (WT): 1.24 mm to 3.05 mm (0.049 inch to 0.12 inch)
The permissible variations in dimensions are as follows:
- Outside Diameter: ±0.4 mm (±0.016 inch)
- Wall Thickness: ±10%
- Length: The length tolerance is dependent on the specified length; typically, standard lengths are available up to 24 feet.
Testing Requirements
Several tests are performed to ensure the quality and integrity of the ASTM A178 ERW steel pipes:
- Flattening Test: This test evaluates the ductility and strength of the pipe by flattening a section of the tube.
- Flare Test: This test determines the pipe’s ability to withstand deformation without developing defects.
- Hydrostatic Test: A pressure test ensures that the welded seam and the pipe body can withstand the specified pressure without leakage.
- Nondestructive Electric Test: This test detects imperfections along the weld seam and the pipe body.
Applications
ASTM A178 ERW steel pipes are widely used in:
-
- Boilers: Tubes are used in boiler systems for steam generation.
- Superheaters: Tubes withstand high temperatures and pressures in superheater sections.
- Heat Exchangers: Tubes facilitate heat transfer in various industrial applications.
- Safe Ends: Tubes are used in safe ends for high-temperature and high-pressure environments.
Advantages
- Cost-Effective: ERW process is economical, reducing material and manufacturing costs.
- High Efficiency: The welding process is highly efficient, producing a continuous weld that is both strong and uniform.
- Versatility: Suitable for a range of applications in high-temperature and high-pressure environments.
Conclusion
ASTM A178 ERW steel pipes are essential for industries requiring reliable, high-quality boiler and superheater tubes. Their specific chemical and mechanical properties, combined with rigorous testing standards, ensure their performance in demanding applications.