What is the price of ASME SA204 Grade C ?
The price of ASME SA204 Grade C steel plates, commonly used for pressure vessels, varies significantly based on thickness, quantity, and supplier, generally falling around $700–$800 per ton for bulk orders or approximately ₹90 per kilogram (approx. $1.00-$1.10/kg) in India as of late 2025.
ASME SA204 Grade C is a ferritic molybdenum-alloy steel that achieves its performance through solid-solution strengthening of the ferrite matrix. The addition of molybdenum (approximately 0.5%) serves a dual purpose: it significantly raises the recrystallization temperature of the steel and creates stable carbides that pin grain boundaries, thereby impeding the creep process. This grade is produced to meet stringent ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code requirements, ensuring that the material is free from significant internal inclusions and exhibits the high-temperature ductility necessary for the safe containment of pressurized media.
Key Characteristics
Solid-Solution Strengthening: Molybdenum atoms in the lattice hinder dislocation movement at high temperatures.
Resistance to Graphitization: Less prone to carbide breakdown into graphite compared to plain carbon steels at high heat.
Predictable Ductility: Maintains a minimum elongation of 16–20%, providing a clear safety margin before failure.
Low Thermal Expansion: Helps minimize thermal fatigue in components that undergo frequent heating and cooling.
Grade Designation
Classification: Molybdenum-Alloyed Pressure Vessel Steel.
ASME Section: II Part A Material.
Level: Class C (High Strength).
Comparison with ASME SA387 Grade 11
Chemical Profile: SA204 Grade C contains only Molybdenum; SA387 Grade 11 contains both Chromium and Molybdenum.
Oxidation Resistance: SA387 offers better protection against scaling/oxidation due to its Chromium content.
Hydrogen Environment: SA387 is superior for high-pressure hydrogen service (Nelson Curve compliance), unlike SA204.
Common Applications
Distillation Towers: Vertical refinery columns operating at high temperatures.
High-Pressure Gas Receivers: Storage tanks for compressed industrial gases.
Boiler Superheater Headers: The hottest parts of a steam generation system.
What are the common inspection methods used for SA204 Grade C?
Common inspection methods for SA204 Grade C include ultrasonic testing, X-ray inspection, tensile testing, and impact testing. These tests are performed to ensure the material's structural integrity and performance under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. Non-destructive testing methods, such as ultrasonic or radiographic testing, are often used to detect internal flaws or cracks, ensuring that the material can safely withstand operational stress without failure.
What are the main applications of SA204 Grade C?
SA204 Grade C is primarily used in the manufacturing of pressure vessels, heat exchangers, boilers, and other components exposed to high temperatures and pressures. Its high resistance to oxidation and good weldability make it ideal for the petrochemical, power generation, and steel industries. It can withstand elevated temperatures without compromising structural integrity, ensuring safe operation in critical industrial applications.
What are the chemical composition of SA204 Grade C?
SA204 Grade C consists of a balanced mixture of carbon (0.10-0.20%), manganese (0.60-1.00%), silicon, chromium, and molybdenum (0.25-0.50%). These alloying elements enhance the material's strength, weldability, and corrosion resistance, particularly at higher temperatures. The molybdenum in Grade C helps increase its resistance to oxidation and creep, making it more reliable in pressure vessels and boilers exposed to high-temperature conditions.
Chemical Composition Requirements
| Element | t | Composition, % |
| Gr. C | ||
| C | t≤1" | ≤0.23 |
| 1" | ≤0.26 | |
| 2" | ≤0.28 | |
| t>4" | ≤0.28 | |
| Mn | All | ≤0.90 |
| P | All | ≤0.025 |
| S | All | ≤0.025 |
| Si | All | 0.15-0.40 |
| Mo | All | 0.45-0.60 |
Mechanical Properties
| ASME SA204 Grade C | Gr. C |
|---|---|
| T.S. MPa [ksi] |
515-655 [75-95] |
| Y.S. min. MPa [ksi] |
295 [43] |
| El. in 8" min. % |
16 |
| El. in 2" min. % |
20 |
1What is the mechanical properties of SA204 Grade C?
SA204 Grade C has a tensile strength of approximately 415 MPa and a yield strength of 205 MPa. The elongation at break is typically above 22%, which indicates good ductility. These properties make it suitable for use in pressure vessels and other high-stress applications, where the material needs to withstand both mechanical loading and thermal expansion. Its toughness ensures that it can perform reliably in demanding conditions without fracturing.
2What is SA204 Grade C?
ASME SA204 Grade C is a low-alloy steel primarily used in high-pressure and high-temperature environments, such as boilers and pressure vessels. It has superior strength and resistance to oxidation, particularly in applications that involve high heat. The material is highly resistant to cracking and provides excellent structural integrity when exposed to elevated temperatures, making it suitable for critical industrial applications in power plants and refineries.
3How does SA204 Grade C compare to SA516 Grade 70?
SA204 Grade C is a low-alloy steel containing molybdenum, which provides superior high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance compared to SA516 Grade 70, a carbon steel. SA516 Grade 70 is often used in lower temperature and pressure applications, while SA204 Grade C is preferred for higher-temperature, high-pressure environments, such as in boilers and pressure vessels. The additional molybdenum in Grade C enhances its performance in extreme conditions.
4What is the cost of SA204 Grade C?
The cost of SA204 Grade C is generally higher than that of standard carbon steels due to its alloying elements, particularly molybdenum, which enhance its high-temperature performance and corrosion resistance. However, the added cost is justified for applications where the material's strength, durability, and resistance to oxidation are essential. Its performance in high-stress, high-temperature environments makes it a cost-effective choice in critical industrial applications.
5What is the hardness of SA204 Grade C?
The hardness of SA204 Grade C typically ranges from 150 HB to 250 HB, depending on its heat treatment state. This hardness range provides a balance between strength and ductility, making the material suitable for high-pressure applications. While it is not extremely hard, its toughness and strength ensure reliable performance in environments that involve mechanical stress and high temperatures, such as pressure vessels, boilers, and heat exchangers.
6What is the weldability of SA204 Grade C like?
SA204 Grade C offers good weldability but requires careful handling during the welding process. To prevent cracking, it's important to control heat input and preheat the material when welding. Low-hydrogen electrodes are typically used to minimize the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking. Post-weld heat treatment may also be necessary to relieve stresses and enhance the mechanical properties, ensuring the welded joints maintain strength and integrity under operating conditions.
7What temperature can SA204 Grade C withstand?
SA204 Grade C can handle temperatures between 450°C and 500°C (840°F to 930°F). It is designed for use in high-temperature environments, such as steam boilers and pressure vessels, where it maintains its strength and performance. However, exceeding this temperature range can lead to a reduction in material strength, making it important to consider temperature limitations when designing or maintaining equipment made from SA204 Grade C to ensure safe operation.
If you want to learn more about ASME SA204 Grade C GNEE's products, you can send an email toinfo@gneesteels.com . We are more than happy to assist you.
