ASTM A515 and ASTM A516 are both specifications for pressure vessel plates, but they have different properties and are used for different applications. Here's a comparison of the two:
ASTM A515
ASTM A515 is a specification for carbon-silicon steel plates primarily used for intermediate- and higher-temperature service in welded boilers and other pressure vessels. The specification covers three grades: 60, 65, and 70.
Key Features of ASTM A515:
Intended Use: Suitable for high-temperature service.
Grades: 60, 65, and 70.
Tensile Strength:
Grade 60: 60-80 ksi
Grade 65: 65-85 ksi
Grade 70: 70-90 ksi
Yield Strength:
Grade 60: 32 ksi
Grade 65: 35 ksi
Grade 70: 38 ksi
Typical Applications: Intermediate- and higher-temperature service applications, such as welded boilers and pressure vessels.
ASTM A516
ASTM A516 is a specification for carbon steel plates primarily used in the fabrication of pressure vessels and boilers, especially when improved notch toughness is important. The specification covers four grades: 55, 60, 65, and 70.
Key Features of ASTM A516:
Intended Use: Suitable for low- and moderate-temperature service.
Grades: 55, 60, 65, and 70.
Tensile Strength:
Grade 55: 55-75 ksi
Grade 60: 60-80 ksi
Grade 65: 65-85 ksi
Grade 70: 70-90 ksi
Yield Strength:
Grade 55: 30 ksi
Grade 60: 32 ksi
Grade 65: 35 ksi
Grade 70: 38 ksi
Typical Applications: Low- and moderate-temperature service applications, such as boilers, pressure vessels, and heat exchangers.
Differences Between ASTM A515 and ASTM A516
Service Temperature: ASTM A515 is designed for intermediate- and higher-temperature service, while ASTM A516 is designed for low- and moderate-temperature service.
Notch Toughness: ASTM A516 has improved notch toughness compared to ASTM A515, making it more suitable for applications where this property is critical.
Grades Available: ASTM A515 has three grades (60, 65, 70), while ASTM A516 has four grades (55, 60, 65, 70).
Chemical Composition: The chemical composition requirements differ slightly, with ASTM A516 generally allowing for lower levels of carbon and other elements to enhance notch toughness.
In summary, ASTM A515 is typically used in higher-temperature applications where notch toughness is less critical, whereas ASTM A516 is used in lower-temperature applications where improved notch toughness is important.