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Girgaon, Mumbai - 400004
What is ASTM A358?
ASTM A358 (ASME SA358) is the standard specification for electric fusion welded (EFW) austenitic chromium nickel stainless steel pipes intended for high-temperature and corrosive service. The specification defines the manufacturing process chemical composition mechanical properties heat treatment dimensions testing inspection and weld quality requirements to ensure reliable performance in critical industrial applications.
ASTM A358 covers several classes of electric fusion welded stainless steel pipes manufactured from plate material in Common ASTM A358 grades include TP304, TP304L, TP316, TP316L, TP321, TP347 and TP310S. These pipes provide excellent corrosion resistance high strength weld integrity and long service life making them suitable for large diameter piping systems operating under demanding temperature and pressure conditions.
ASTM A358 Stainless Steel Pipes are widely used in oil and gas petrochemical chemical processing power generation refineries fertilizer plants pulp and paper marine and offshore industries. Kamal Steels supplies ASTM A358 EFW stainless steel pipes in various grades sizes wall thicknesses and classes with Mill Test Certificates (EN 10204 3.1) third-party inspection and customized project requirements for domestic and international applications.
What is ASTM A358 Material?
ASTM A358 is a specification for electric-fusion-welded austenitic stainless steel pipe intended for high-temperature and general corrosive service. The specification covers welded pipe manufactured from austenitic stainless steel plate and includes different classes based on welding, heat treatment and radiographic examination requirements.
ASTM A358 stainless steel pipe is available in grades such as TP304, TP304L, TP316 and TP316L, with the selected grade depending on the required corrosion resistance, temperature conditions and application requirements. The specification is commonly used for larger-diameter welded stainless steel pipe in demanding industrial services.
| Property | ASTM A358 |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Austenitic Stainless Steel |
| Product Form | Electric-Fusion-Welded Pipe |
| Common Grades | TP304, TP304L, TP316 and TP316L |
| Manufacturing Material | Stainless Steel Plate |
| Corrosion Resistance | Good to excellent, depending on the grade |
| Temperature Service | Suitable for high-temperature and corrosive service |
| Typical Applications | Chemical Processing, Petrochemical, Oil & Gas, Power and Industrial Equipment |
ASTM A358 stainless steel pipe is selected where welded construction, corrosion resistance and reliable performance at elevated temperatures are required. The appropriate stainless steel grade and ASTM A358 class are selected according to the service conditions, pipe dimensions and project requirements.
ASTM A358 EFW Pipe Specification
ASTM A358 covers electric fusion welded stainless steel pipes manufactured from austenitic stainless steel plate. The specification is designed for applications involving elevated temperatures, corrosive fluids and large diameter piping systems.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard | ASTM A358 / ASME SA358 |
| Pipe Type | Electric Fusion Welded (EFW) |
| Manufacturing Method | Fusion Welded from Stainless Steel Plate |
| Size Range | 8" NB to 120" NB (typical/supplied sizes) |
| Wall Thickness | 5 mm to 50 mm (typical/supplied range) |
| Length | Random, Double Random & Custom Length |
| Classes | Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4 & Class 5 |
| Grades | TP304, TP304L, TP316, TP316L, TP321, TP347, TP310S |
| Ends | Plain End, Bevel End |
| Surface Finish | Pickled, Annealed, Polished |
ASTM A358 Pipe Classes
ASTM A358 stainless steel pipe classes define requirements related to the welding method, heat treatment and radiographic examination of the welded pipe. The applicable class is selected according to the requirements of the ASTM A358 specification and the project or engineering requirements.
| Pipe Class | Welding / Examination Requirements |
|---|---|
| Class 1 | Double welded and completely radiographed. |
| Class 2 | Double welded and not radiographed. |
| Class 3 | Single welded and completely radiographed. |
| Class 4 | Single welded and not radiographed. |
| Class 5 | Double welded and spot radiographed. |
Note: ASTM A358 pipe class requirements should be verified against the applicable specification, purchase order, project requirements and inspection requirements. The selected class should not be interpreted as an application classification or pressure rating.
ASTM A358 Pipe Grades
Common ASTM A358 stainless steel pipe grades include TP304, TP304L, TP316, TP316L, TP321, TP347, and TP310S. The applicable grade should be selected according to the required corrosion resistance, temperature conditions, mechanical properties, and project requirements.
| ASTM A358 Grade | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|
| TP304 Pipe | Austenitic stainless steel grade with good general corrosion resistance and weldability. |
| TP304L Pipe | Low-carbon grade with improved weldability and reduced susceptibility to intergranular corrosion after welding. |
| TP316 Pipe | Molybdenum-bearing grade offering improved resistance to chlorides and corrosive environments. |
| TP316L Pipe | Low-carbon molybdenum-bearing grade commonly used where welding and corrosion resistance are important. |
| TP321 Pipe | Titanium-stabilized austenitic grade suitable for elevated-temperature service. |
| TP347 Pipe | Niobium-stabilized austenitic grade suitable for elevated-temperature service. |
| TP310S Pipe | High-chromium, high-nickel austenitic grade offering strong resistance to oxidation and elevated temperatures. |
ASTM A358 TP304 vs TP316
| Comparison | TP304 | TP316 |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent for general industrial environments. | Superior resistance to chlorides, chemicals and marine environments. |
| Composition | 18% Chromium, 8% Nickel. | 16–18% Chromium, 10–14% Nickel, 2–3% Molybdenum. |
| Typical Applications | Food processing, water systems and general industrial piping. | Chemical processing, marine equipment, petrochemical plants and offshore piping. |
| Cost | More economical. | Higher cost due to molybdenum content. |
Choose TP304 when cost-effective corrosion resistance is sufficient for general industrial applications. Choose TP316 when the piping system is exposed to chlorides, seawater, or aggressive chemicals where enhanced corrosion resistance and longer service life are required.
ASTM A358 Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of ASTM A358 EFW stainless steel pipes depends on the selected material grade. The table below shows the typical composition of commonly supplied grades.
| Grade | Carbon (C) Max % | Chromium (Cr) % | Nickel (Ni) % | Molybdenum (Mo) % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP304 | 0.08 | 18.0–20.0 | 8.0–11.0 | — |
| TP304L | 0.03 | 18.0–20.0 | 8.0–12.0 | — |
| TP316 | 0.08 | 16.0–18.0 | 10.0–14.0 | 2.0–3.0 |
| TP316L | 0.03 | 16.0–18.0 | 10.0–14.0 | 2.0–3.0 |
Note: Chemical composition varies by ASTM A358 grade. Additional grades such as TP321, TP347, and TP310S are available on request.
ASTM A358 Mechanical Properties
ASTM A358 stainless steel pipes are manufactured to satisfy minimum mechanical property requirements specified by ASTM standards. Typical values for commonly supplied grades are shown below.
| Grade | Tensile Strength (Min MPa) | Yield Strength (Min MPa) | Elongation (Min %) | Hardness (Max HB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP304 | 515 | 205 | 35 | 192 |
| TP304L | 485 | 170 | 35 | 192 |
| TP316 | 515 | 205 | 35 | 217 |
| TP316L | 485 | 170 | 35 | 217 |
Note: Mechanical properties shown are typical minimum values for annealed ASTM A358 stainless steel pipes. Actual requirements may vary depending on the material grade, pipe class, and applicable ASTM specification.
ASTM A358 Equivalent Grades
| ASTM A358 Grade | UNS Number | Werkstoff No. |
|---|---|---|
| TP304 | S30400 | 1.4301 |
| TP304L | S30403 | 1.4306 / 1.4307 |
| TP316 | S31600 | 1.4401 |
| TP316L | S31603 | 1.4404 |
| TP321 | S32100 | 1.4541 |
| TP347 | S34700 | 1.4550 |
| TP310S | S31008 | 1.4845 |
ASTM A358 Pipe Size Chart
ASTM A358 stainless steel EFW pipes are commonly supplied in large diameters for demanding industrial applications. The following table presents typical sizes and outside diameters within the supply range offered for ASTM A358 pipes. Wall thickness and length can vary according to the required specification, pipe dimensions, grade, class and customer requirements.
| Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) | Outside Diameter (OD) | Typical Wall Thickness Range | Typical Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8" | 219.1 mm | 4 mm – 30 mm | 6 Meters |
| 10" | 273.0 mm | 4 mm – 35 mm | 6 Meters |
| 12" | 323.9 mm | 5 mm – 40 mm | 6 Meters |
| 16" | 406.4 mm | 6 mm – 45 mm | 6 Meters |
| 20" | 508.0 mm | 6 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 24" | 609.6 mm | 6 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 30" | 762.0 mm | 6 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 36" | 914.4 mm | 8 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 42" | 1066.8 mm | 8 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 48" | 1219.2 mm | 8 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 60" | 1524.0 mm | 10 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 72" | 1828.8 mm | 10 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 84" | 2133.6 mm | 10 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 96" | 2438.4 mm | 10 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 120" | 3048.0 mm | 12 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
Note: Dimensions, wall thicknesses and lengths are subject to the applicable ASTM/ASME requirements and customer specifications. Kamal Steels can supply ASTM A358 stainless steel EFW pipes in various large diameters, grades, classes, wall thicknesses and lengths according to project requirements.
ASTM A358 Pipe Dimensions
ASTM A358 stainless steel EFW pipe dimensions include nominal pipe size (NPS), outside diameter (OD), wall thickness and pipe length. Kamal Steels supplies ASTM A358 pipes in large diameters, typically from 8" NB to 120" NB, with dimensions and wall thicknesses manufactured according to applicable standards and customer requirements.
| Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) | Outside Diameter (OD) | Typical Wall Thickness | Typical Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8" | 219.1 mm | 4 mm – 30 mm | 6 Meters |
| 10" | 273.0 mm | 4 mm – 35 mm | 6 Meters |
| 12" | 323.9 mm | 5 mm – 40 mm | 6 Meters |
| 16" | 406.4 mm | 6 mm – 45 mm | 6 Meters |
| 20" | 508.0 mm | 6 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 24" | 609.6 mm | 6 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 30" | 762.0 mm | 6 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 36" | 914.4 mm | 8 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 42" | 1066.8 mm | 8 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 48" | 1219.2 mm | 8 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 60" | 1524.0 mm | 10 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 72" | 1828.8 mm | 10 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 84" | 2133.6 mm | 10 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 96" | 2438.4 mm | 10 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
| 120" | 3048.0 mm | 12 mm – 50 mm | 6 Meters |
Note: The dimensions and wall thicknesses shown above represent typical supply ranges and may vary according to the applicable dimensional standard, ASTM A358 class, material grade and customer specifications.
ASTM A358 Heat Treatment and Testing
| Inspection / Test | Description |
|---|---|
| Solution Annealing | Heat treatment is performed according to the applicable ASTM A358 requirements and material grade. |
| Hydrostatic Test | Hydrostatic testing is performed to verify the pressure integrity of the pipe where required by the applicable specification or purchase order. |
| Radiographic Examination | Radiographic examination of weld seams is performed where required by the applicable ASTM A358 class and purchase requirements. |
| Nondestructive Electric Test | Nondestructive electric testing is available where specified to evaluate the integrity of the pipe and weld area. |
| Dimensional Inspection | Outside diameter, wall thickness, length and straightness are inspected to verify dimensional requirements. |
| Visual Inspection | Pipe surfaces and weld areas are visually inspected for workmanship, surface condition and visible defects. |
| PMI Testing | Positive Material Identification (PMI) is available on request to verify the chemical composition of the supplied material. |
| Mill Test Certificate | EN 10204 3.1 Mill Test Certificate can be supplied with material to provide material and test results. |
| Third-Party Inspection | Third-party inspection can be arranged through agencies such as SGS, TÜV, BV, DNV, Lloyd's and other approved inspection agencies. |
ASTM A358 Pipe Applications
| Industry | Application |
|---|---|
| Oil & Gas | Transmission pipelines, process piping and offshore facilities. |
| Petrochemical | High-temperature and corrosion-resistant process piping. |
| Chemical Processing | Handling corrosive chemicals and aggressive fluids. |
| Power Plants | High-temperature process piping, steam-related piping and power-generation equipment. |
| Refineries | Process lines and pressure piping. |
| Heat Exchangers | Fluid transfer and heat exchange systems. |
| Marine & Offshore | Seawater handling and offshore platforms. |
| Water Treatment | Desalination and water processing plants. |
| Food & Pharma | Hygienic processing and sanitary piping systems. |
| LNG & Cryogenic | Low-temperature process piping applications. |
Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM A358 is a specification for Electric Fusion Welded (EFW) austenitic stainless steel pipes intended for high-temperature, corrosive and pressure-containing applications.
ASTM A312 covers seamless and welded stainless steel pipes, whereas ASTM A358 specifically covers electric fusion welded stainless steel pipes manufactured from stainless steel plate.
EFW stands for Electric Fusion Welded. ASTM A358 pipes are produced by fusion welding stainless steel plates to create large-diameter pipes with excellent strength and corrosion resistance.
Common ASTM A358 grades include TP304, TP304L, TP316, TP316L, TP321, TP347 and TP310S stainless steel pipes for various industrial applications.
ASTM A358 pipe classes define welding and radiographic testing requirements. Class 1 pipes are fully radiographed double-welded pipes, while Class 5 pipes are double-welded pipes with spot radiographic examination.
ASTM A358 pipes are widely used in petrochemical plants, oil refineries, power generation facilities, chemical processing industries, offshore projects and water treatment systems.
ASTM A358 pipes are generally manufactured in larger diameters ranging from 8 inches to 120 inches and above, depending on project requirements and fabrication capabilities.
Yes, ASTM A358 stainless steel pipes are specifically designed for elevated-temperature applications and offer excellent oxidation resistance and mechanical strength.