ASTM A420 WPL6 Elbow for Low-Temperature Piping Solutions
ASTM A420 WPL6 Elbows are high-performance pipe fittings designed for low-temperature piping systems, compliant with ASME B16.9 standards. Made from seamless or welded carbon steel, these elbows provide exceptional corrosion resistance and erosion resistance, making them ideal for boiler pipeline protection in cryogenic applications, oil and gas pipelines, and chemical processing plants.
ASTM A420 WPL6 elbows are manufactured through hot-forming or cold-forming processes, followed by normalizing or stress-relieving heat treatments to enhance toughness and impact resistance at temperatures as low as -46°C. With controlled carbon (≤0.30%) and manganese (0.50-1.35%) content, they offer excellent weldability and durability in harsh environments. Available in long-radius (LR, R=1.5D), short-radius (SR, R=1D), and reducing configurations, these elbows support angles of 90°, 45°, and 22.5° for versatile industrial piping designs.
These elbows support welding, bending, and flanging, with recommended preheating (100-150°C) and post-weld heat treatment (600-650°C) to ensure weld integrity. Available in sizes from 1/2” to 24” (DN15 to DN600) and wall thicknesses from SCH 40 to SCH 160, they meet diverse pipeline requirements. Rigorous testing, including Charpy impact, tensile, and hydrostatic tests, ensures compliance with ASTM A420 standards for low-temperature service.
Enhanced with coatings like 3LPE, FBE, or galvanizing, ASTM A420 WPL6 elbows provide superior corrosion resistance, protecting against rust and chemical degradation in cold environments. Their low-temperature toughness makes them ideal for LNG plants, refrigeration systems, and boiler pipeline protection in power generation.
For engineers seeking reliable low-temperature piping solutions, ASTM A420 WPL6 elbows deliver unmatched strength, safety, and longevity, addressing challenges like pipeline corrosion, thermal stress, and low-temperature embrittlement.
What is ASTM A420 WPL6?
ASTM A420 is the standard specification for wrought carbon steel and alloy steel fittings, primarily designed for low-temperature service. The designation "WPL6" refers to the grade within this specification, meaning it’s specifically a low-temperature carbon steel fitting. This type of steel has been designed to withstand the challenges of sub-zero environments, making it suitable for industries that operate in extreme conditions, such as oil and gas or cryogenic services.
Chemical Composition of ASTM A234 WP22 Elbow
| Element |
Composition (%) |
| Carbon (C) |
≤0.15 |
| Manganese (Mn) |
0.30-0.60 |
| Phosphorus (P) |
≤0.025 |
| Sulfur (S) |
≤0.025 |
| Silicon (Si) |
≤0.50 |
| Chromium (Cr) |
2.00-2.50 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) |
0.90-1.10 |
Mechanical Properties of ASTM A234 WP22 Elbow
| Property |
Value |
| Tensile Strength, min (MPa) |
415-585 |
| Yield Strength, min (MPa) |
205 |
| Elongation, min (%) |
20 (Longitudinal) |
| Hardness, max (HBW) |
197 |
Key Benefits
Corrosion Resistance
High Cr/Mo content protects against oxidation and chemical degradation.
Erosion Resistance
Durable alloy steel withstands wear from abrasive slurries.
High-Temperature Strength
Excels in conditions up to 650°C with creep resistance.
Weldability
Supports welding for secure pipeline configurations.
Cost-Effective
Long lifespan reduces maintenance in high-temperature systems.
Versatile Configurations
Available in LR, SR, and reducing designs for diverse applications.
Types of ASTM A420 WPL6 Elbows
| Type |
Bend Radius |
Angle |
Applications |
| Long Radius (LR) Elbow |
1.5 × Pipe Diameter |
Available in 45° & 90° |
Smoother flow, less pressure drop, used in critical piping systems |
| Short Radius (SR) Elbow |
1.0 × Pipe Diameter |
Available in 45° & 90° |
Compact design, suitable for tight spaces |
| 45° Elbow |
LR or SR |
45° |
Used for minor directional changes |
| 90° Elbow |
LR or SR |
90° |
Most common type, used in general piping systems |
Comparison of ASTM A420 WPL6 Elbow with Other Fittings
| Feature |
ASTM A420 WPL6 Elbow |
ASTM A234 WPB Elbow |
ASTM A403 WP304 Elbow |
| Material Type |
Carbon Steel (Low-Temp) |
Carbon Steel |
Stainless Steel |
| Temperature Range |
Low (-46°C to 425°C) |
Moderate (-29°C to 425°C) |
High (up to 870°C) |
| Corrosion Resistance |
Good (with coatings) |
Moderate |
Superior (Austenitic) |
| Erosion Resistance |
Good |
Good |
Moderate |
| Impact Toughness |
Excellent at -46°C |
Moderate |
Good |
| Applications |
LNG, Cryogenic, Oil & Gas |
General Piping, Boilers |
Food Processing, Marine |
| Key Advantage |
Low-temp toughness |
Cost-effective strength |
Superior corrosion resistance |
Key Benefits
Corrosion Resistance
Protects against rust and chemical degradation in harsh environments.
Erosion Resistance
Durable carbon steel withstands wear from abrasive fluids.
Low-Temperature Toughness
Excels in cryogenic conditions down to -46°C.
Weldability
Supports welding for secure pipeline configurations.
Cost-Effective
Long lifespan reduces maintenance in low-temperature systems.
Versatile Configurations
Available in LR, SR, and reducing designs for diverse applications.
