What is ASTM A333 Gr 6? A333 Gr 6 vs A106 Gr B

ASTM A333 Gr 6 is a specific grade of low-temperature carbon steel (LTCS) pipe used in various industrial applications. It is a seamless and welded carbon and alloy steel pipe intended for use at low temperatures, typically above -50°F (-45°C). The “Gr 6” designation refers to the grade of steel, which meets the requirements of the ASTM A333 standard. In general, A333-6 pipes are manufactured in a size range from 1/2 inches to 24 inches.

This steel grade is commonly used in industries such as oil and gas, chemical, and power generation, where low-temperature service is required. The A333 Gr 6 steel is designed to withstand brittle fracture and has excellent impact toughness, making it ideal for use in cold environments up to a temperature of -45°C. For applications of A333-6 pipe material below -45°C, there will be a requirement for impact testing.

Information Required to Purchase A333-Gr 6 Pipe?

The following information shall be furnished while purchasing ASTM A333 Gr 6 pipe from any vendor.

  • Pipe Quantity
  • Manufacturing Process (Seamless or Welded)
  • A333 Gr 6 Pipe Size and Wall Thickness
  • End finish
  • Any specific requirements like heat analysis, test reports, etc

Chemical Composition of ASTM A333-6 Material

ASTM A333 Gr 6 pipe material consists of the following alloying elements:

  • Carbon: 0.3% Max
  • Manganese: 0.29 to 1.06%
  • Phosphorus: 0.025% Max
  • Sulfur: 0.025% Max
  • Silicon: 0.1% Min
  • Nickel: 0.4% Max
  • Chromium: 0.3% Max
  • Copper: 0.4% Max
  • Vanadium: 0.08% Max
  • Columbium: 0.02% Max
  • Molybdenum: 0.12% Max
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Mechanical properties of A333 Gr 6 Pipe Material

A333-6 Pipe Material has the following mechanical properties:

  • Minimum Tensile Strength: 415 MPa(60 ksi)
  • Minimum Yield Strength: 240 MPa (35 ksi)
  • Minimum Longitudinal Elongation in 2 inches (50mm): 30%
  • Minimum Transverse Elongation in 2 inches (50mm): 16.5%

Differences between A106-B and A333-6 pipe material?

A106 Gr B and A333 Gr 6 are two different grades of carbon steel pipes that are designed for different applications. Here are some of the key differences between A106 Gr B and A333 Gr 6:

Temperature range: A106 Gr B pipes are designed to be used at high temperatures and pressures, while A333 Gr 6 pipes are designed for use at low temperatures.

Chemical composition: The chemical composition of A106 Gr B and A333 Gr 6 is only slightly different in terms of maximum values for elements like Phosphorus, Sulfur, Chromium, and Molybdenum. In A106-B material the maximum allowed range for these elements are slightly higher than that of A333-6 material.

Mechanical properties: The mechanical properties of the two grades are also the same. Both A106 Gr B and A333 Gr 6 have a minimum tensile strength of 60,000 psi and a minimum yield strength of 35,000 psi.

Manufacturing method: A106 Gr B pipes are typically manufactured by the seamless method, while A333 Gr 6 pipes can be made using either seamless or welded methods. This is the main major difference between A106-B and A333-6.

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Overall, the choice between A106 Gr B and A333 Gr 6 will depend on the specific requirements of the application, particularly the temperature at which the pipe will be used.

A333-6 Pipe Manufacturers

There are many manufacturers of ASTM A333 Grade 6 pipe, but some of the biggest ones include:

  • Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation
  • ArcelorMittal
  • JFE Steel Corporation
  • Tenaris SA
  • Vallourec SA
  • Tubos Reunidos SA
  • United States Steel Corporation
  • TPCO Enterprise Inc.
  • Maharashtra Seamless Ltd.
  • China Zhonghai Steel Pipe Manufacturing Corporation.

It’s worth noting that this list is not exhaustive and there are many other reputable manufacturers of ASTM A333 Grade 6 pipe.

Here are some of the biggest manufacturers of ASTM A333 Grade 6 pipe from India:

  • Maharashtra Seamless Ltd.
  • Jindal Saw Ltd.
  • ISMT Limited
  • Mukat Pipes Limited
  • Ratnamani Metals & Tubes Ltd.
  • U.S. Metals
  • Sandvik Materials Technology India Pvt. Ltd.
  • Bhushan Steel Limited
  • Lloyds Line Pipes Limited
  • Tubacex India Pvt. Ltd.

Anup Kumar Dey

I am a Mechanical Engineer turned into a Piping Engineer. Currently, I work in a reputed MNC as a Senior Piping Stress Engineer. I am very much passionate about blogging and always tried to do unique things. This website is my first venture into the world of blogging with the aim of connecting with other piping engineers around the world.

3 thoughts on “What is ASTM A333 Gr 6? A333 Gr 6 vs A106 Gr B

  1. Gracias por tu articulo es muy bueno y muy explicado éxitos y que vengan muchos mas

  2. Great and detailed information. I liked the way you presented it. I think while mentioning the manufacturers, you forgot to add Marcsteelindia who is one of the top manufacturers and supplier of A333-6 Pipe

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