High-toughness Carbon Steel Pipes For Sub-zero Applications Down To -45°c
Astm a333 gr6 pipe delivers exceptional impact toughness at temperatures as low as -45°c.
High-toughness Carbon Steel Pipes For Sub-zero Applications Down To -45°c
Astm a333 gr6 pipe delivers exceptional impact toughness at temperatures as low as -45°c. this seamless carbon steel tube resists brittle fracture in cryogenic systems, lng plants, and refrigeration pipelines. ideal for critical low-temperature infrastructure with guaranteed durability and pressure integrity.
ASTM A333 Gr6 Low Temperature Pipe is a seamless carbon steel tube engineered for extreme sub-zero environments, providing unmatched resistance to brittle fracture down to -45°C. Compliant with ASTM A333/ASME SA333 specifications, this Cryogenic Carbon Steel Pipe features controlled chemistry and heat treatment to ensure superior impact toughness for liquefied natural gas (LNG) transfer, refrigeration systems, and chemical processing plants operating in low-temperature conditions.
Manufactured through hot-finished or cold-drawn processes followed by normalization, ASTM A333 Gr6 Pipe undergoes rigorous Charpy V-notch testing at -45°C to validate low-temperature ductility. With carbon content capped at 0.30% and manganese levels optimized (0.29-1.06%), these pipes offer excellent weldability and formability while maintaining structural integrity under cryogenic stress. Available in sizes from NPS 1/8" to 26" with schedules SCH 40 to SCH 160, they support complex installations in arctic oilfields, ammonia processing, and cryogenic storage facilities.
The Seamless Low-Temperature Tube excels in environments where thermal contraction and pressure fluctuations demand fracture-resistant materials. Hydrostatic testing at 2.5x design pressure ensures leak-proof performance, while non-destructive examination guarantees defect-free construction. With minimum tensile strength of 415 MPa and yield strength of 240 MPa, Gr6 pipes prevent catastrophic failure in LNG liquefaction units, ethylene pipelines, and offshore cryogenic transfer systems where brittle fracture poses operational risks.
ASTM A333 Grade 6 Pipe is a low-temperature carbon steel pipe designed for superior performance in cryogenic environments down to -45°C (-50°F). Conforming to ASTM A333/ASME SA333 specifications, this Low Temperature Carbon Steel (LTCS) pipe is engineered for boiler pipeline protection and industrial piping systems in industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, and power generation. Its seamless and welded construction ensures exceptional toughness, durability, and resistance to brittle fracture in low-temperature conditions.
The ASTM A333 Grade 6 Pipe is manufactured using seamless, welded, ERW, or fabricated processes, with no filler metal used in welding to maintain structural integrity. Its composition, featuring low carbon (max 0.30%) and high manganese (0.29-1.06%), provides a fine-grain structure with uniform carbide dispersion, enhancing weldability and impact resistance. Available in sizes from 1/8” to 48” (DN6 to DN1200) and wall thicknesses from SCH 10 to SCH XXS (3mm to 12mm), these pipes cater to diverse project needs. Custom lengths from 3m to 18m, along with plain, beveled, or threaded ends, ensure flexibility for various applications.
Designed for low temperature service, the LTCS ASTM A333 Gr 6 Pipe undergoes rigorous testing, including impact, tensile, hydrostatic, and nondestructive electric tests, to ensure compliance with ASTM standards. With a minimum tensile strength of 415 MPa and yield strength of 240 MPa, it offers reliable performance in high-pressure environments. Surface treatments like galvanizing, 3LPE, or FBE coatings enhance corrosion resistance, making it ideal for handling corrosive fluids in petrochemical plants or abrasive materials in oil and gas pipelines.
The Seamless Carbon Pipe excels in cryogenic systems, subsea drilling, and refrigeration applications due to its ability to withstand extreme cold without compromising structural integrity. Its low carbon content reduces the risk of weld cracking, requiring preheating (150-200°C) for optimal welding performance. Compared to ASTM A106, which is suited for high-temperature applications, A333 Grade 6 is tailored for low-temperature environments, offering superior toughness and cost-effective durability for industrial piping solutions.
The ASTM A333 Grade 6 Pipe addresses critical challenges like pipeline contraction and brittle fracture in cold environments. Its versatility extends to structural applications in construction and mechanical engineering, making it a preferred choice for engineers seeking reliable, long-lasting boiler pipeline protection. With high impact resistance and moderate corrosion resistance, this pipe ensures safety, reduced maintenance, and enhanced system reliability in demanding industrial settings.
| Element | Composition (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.30 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.29–1.06 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.025 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.025 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≥ 0.10 |
| Nickel (Ni) | ≤ 0.40 |
| Chromium (Cr) | ≤ 0.30 |
| Copper (Cu) | ≤ 0.30 |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 415 MPa |
| Yield Strength | ≥ 240 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 30 % |
| Impact Toughness | ≥ 27 J @ –100 °C |
| Hardness | ≤ 241 HBW |
| Standard | Pipes | Buttweld Fittings | Forged Steel Fittings | Valves | Bolts and Nuts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low Temp Carbon Steel | A333 GR6 | A420 WPL6 | ASTM A350 LF2 | A352 LCB | A320 Gr L7 / A194 Gr 7 |
The equivalent grade to ASTM A333 GR6 is often EN 10216-4 P265NL or DIN 17173 TT St 35N. These grades share similar mechanical properties and are suitable for low-temperature service applications.
ASTM A333
Low temperature pipe refers to pipes specifically designed to withstand and operate effectively in environments with low temperatures, typically below 0°C (32°F).
These pipes are often used in industries such as oil and gas, petrochemicals, and refrigeration, where fluids need to be transported or stored at low temperatures. They are constructed from materials that can maintain their mechanical properties and structural integrity even in extremely cold conditions, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of fluids. Additionally, low temperature pipes are insulated to prevent heat transfer and maintain the desired temperature of the fluid being transported.
Compared with austenitic stainless steel and duplex stainless steel, there are many comprehensive advantages of ferrite alloy steels for low temperature service, such as higher strength, better rigidity and lower expansion coefificient. There is not only better stability but aslo higher heat transfer efficiency. Tube & pipe for low-temperature service can be widely used in low temperature engineering. ASTM/ASME A/SA-333 Grades allow for cold temperature service to minus 150 degrees F. Material is always provided in the normalized condition at a minimum and Charpy Impact tested to a specific temperature range to assure compliance with the required service temperature.
Exceptional performance at temperatures down to -45°C with superior notch toughness and impact resistance.
Fine-grain structure with uniform carbide dispersion prevents brittle fracture in cryogenic conditions.
Economical alternative to exotic materials while providing reliable low-temperature performance.
Good weldability using conventional processes with minimal post-weld heat treatment requirements.
Precise control of chemical composition using electric arc furnaces with advanced ladle metallurgy techniques. Vacuum degassing reduces hydrogen content and eliminates inclusions.
Seamless pipes manufactured using hot piercing and rolling. Welded pipes produced using ERW or SAW processes with strict welding parameter controls.
Controlled heat treatment including normalizing at 815°C (1500°F), quench and temper, or stress relief to achieve optimal microstructure and properties.
Comprehensive testing including chemical analysis, mechanical testing, Charpy V-notch impact testing, hydrostatic testing, and non-destructive examination.
ASTM A333 Gr6 Low Temp Pipe - Seamless Carbon Steel Tube is widely used in industries requiring excellent high-temperature, high-pressure, and corrosion-resistant performance.
Used in boilers, superheaters, and steam lines in thermal and nuclear power plants.
Ideal for hydrocarbon processing, ethylene cracking, and heat exchanger units.
Used in LNG pipelines, storage tanks, and vaporization equipment for cold media.
Ensures excellent thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance in cyclic operations.
Handles high-pressure oil and gas in extraction, refining, and transportation systems.
Resists acidic and corrosive environments in reactors, scrubbers, and distillation units.
