B31.1 Power Piping: Question of using ASTM A106 Grade B

16 Jun.,2025

 

B31.1 Power Piping: Question of using ASTM A106 Grade B

Dear all,

reg. ASME B31.1 Power Piping the use at temperatures above maximum in stress tables given is generally not permitted.
That means in fact you can use ASTM A106 Grade B until 800 °F (426°C) for Power Piping and not above...
Are there any exceptions? For example low pressure?

In our special case we have Design Conditions from
p= 0,5 barg (7.25 psig) T=435°C (815°F)in a
Vacuum Application.
We don´t really want to use high alloy- material (F11).

Are there alternatives or any exceptions for using ASTM A106 Grade B for higher temperatures?

Thanks for every helpful answer.

Dear Ione,

thanks for your quick answer. But the problem is that this
table is for B31.3 Process Piping and not for B31.1 Power Piping . It is right that for B31.3 the stress value or ,in fact, the allowable Temperatures are higher for Material SA 106 Gr. B.
But the customer wants B31.1 also for the vacuum lines.
So, I´m searching for a way out of this problem inside of B31.1 and not to change from B31.1 to B31.3.
The customer specification requires B31.1... :-(

Nevertheless, thanks a lot for your answer.

Best regards

What is Astm A106 Gr B? - Amardeep Steel

What is Astm A106 Gr B?

by AMC

Read more

Posted on Novermber 08, at 06:48 PM


ASTM A106 is the standard specification for seamless carbon steel pipes designed for high-temperature services. It includes three grades—A, B, and C—with Grade B being the most commonly used. Carbon steel pipes are essential in industries such as oil and gas, water transmission, boiler systems, and construction, offering durability and performance in demanding conditions. In this blog, we'll explore the key features and applications of ASTM A106 pipes.

What is Astm A106 Gr B?

Steel with a carbon content of up to 2.1% by weight is called carbon steel. The American Iron and Steel Institute’s (AISI) definition of carbon steel reads as follows: steel when: no minimum content is stipulated or required for chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, nickel, niobium, titanium, tungsten, vanadium, or zirconium to be added to achieve the desired binding effect; the minimum specified for copper does not exceed 0.40 percent or the maximum content stipulated for any element; When used in this way, the phrase “Carbon Steel A106 Grade B Pipes” can apply to any steel, including alloy steel, that is not stainless

The term “ASTM 106 pipe” designates seamless carbon steel pipes that have been hot-rolled or cold-drawn (rolled). Seamless pipe used in high-temperature applications is covered by ASTM A106 standard specification. As a result, it can be used to transport fluids (such as water, oil, gas, or slurry), making it a crucial component of the mining industry.

A106 Material Grades

There are three categories of A106 material based on the material’s chemical makeup (primarily Maximum Carbon percentage). These are:

Maximum 0.25% carbon content in A106 Grade A.

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A106 Grade B, with no more than 0.30% carbon, and A106 Grade C, with no more than 0.35% carbon

The range of manganese’s percentage also changes slightly between grades in the chemical composition of the various classes, as was previously noted. The manganese content in A106 Grade A typically ranges from 0.27 to 0.93%, whereas it does the same for Grades B and C (0.29 to 1.06%). All three classes of Sa 106 gr B Chemical Composition have the same maximum proportion of additional elements like phosphorus, sulfur, silicon, copper, chromium, molybdenum, nickel, vanadium, etc. To be safe, ASTM A106 states that the cumulative percentage of all these other materials must not be greater than 1%.

What is the difference between SA 106 GR B and A106 GR B?

ASTM A106 Gr B Pipe covers standard specifications for non-pressurized vessel grades. On the contrary, an SA106 Gr B is a feature in pressurized vessel grades. SA 106 Gr B Seamless Pipe is suitable in temperatures ranging from -20 degrees F and as high as 400 degrees F in high-stress-induced setups.

Astm A106 Gr B Specification

Astm A106 Gr B Chemical Composition

A106 material has carbon, manganese, phosphorus, sulfur, silicon, chromium, copper, molybdenum, nickel, and vanadium in the composition. There are different schedules, wall thicknesses, and outer diameters of the pipes. The ASTM A106 Gr B Sch 40 comes with good corrosion resistance and strength properties.

A106 Gr B Mechanical Properties

Astm A106 Gr B Equivalent Material

ASTM A106 Grade B is equivalent to the following materials in terms of chemical composition and mechanical properties:

Astm A106 Gr B Application

  • a106 grade b Carbon Steel Pipe Applications
  • low and medium-pressure boiler
  • high-pressure boiler
  • ship-building
  • Liquid service
  • petroleum cracking
  • chemical fertilizer equipment
  • Drawing-oil-equipment and structure purposes

Conclusion

ASTM A106 Grade B is a reliable choice for seamless carbon steel pipes used in high-temperature, high-pressure applications. Its strong mechanical properties and versatility make it ideal for industries like oil and gas, power generation, and chemical processing. Whether for boilers, liquid services, or structural purposes, ASTM A106 Grade B offers durability and performance in challenging conditions.

Understanding its specifications and applications ensures you choose the right material for your needs. Always source from trusted suppliers and ensure the material meets your project’s requirements.

The company is the world’s best astm a106 GR.B supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.