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ASTM A516 Hot Rolled Steel Plate: Key Properties, Applications, and Procurement Insights for Global Buyers

As global demand for energy equipment, boiler systems, and pressure vessels continues to grow, ASTM A516 hot rolled steel plate remains one of the most widely used and highly trusted materials in the international industrial market. Known for its excellent toughness, reliable weldability, and performance under high pressure, ASTM A516 has become a preferred material across oil & gas projects, chemical plants, power generation systems, and heavy industrial facilities.

This report provides a comprehensive overview of ASTM A516 steel plate—from product features and material behavior to application fields and strategic guidance for international buyers. An additional A516 vs A36 comparison table is included to support procurement decisions.

Hot Rolled Steel Plates

Product Overview: What Is ASTM A516 Steel Plate?

ASTM A516 is the U.S. ASTM specification for carbon–manganese pressure vessel steel plates, commonly supplied in Grades 60, 65, and 70.
Among them, Grade 70 is the most widely used due to its higher strength level and strong performance in industrial environments.

Key Product Highlights

Engineered specifically for medium- and low-temperature pressure vessels

Excellent impact toughness, suitable for cold regions or cryogenic-adjacent applications

Highly reliable weldability, ideal for large welded tanks and boilers

Available in a wide range of thicknesses (6–150 mm)

Globally accepted under ASTM, ASME, API and related international project standards

Material Advantages: What Makes A516 Unique?

Superior Pressure and Explosion Resistance

Designed for vessels subjected to fluctuating internal pressure, thermal cycles, and long-term operation.

Low Sulfur and Phosphorus Control

Refined chemical composition minimizes brittle behavior and improves welding safety.

Enhanced Toughness With Normalizing (Optional)

Many international EPC projects require N or N+T heat treatments to achieve uniform mechanical properties.

Uniform Microstructure for Long-Term Service

Ensures stable performance in boilers, storage tanks, chemical reactors, and refinery equipment.

hot rolled steel plate application

Global Applications of ASTM A516 Steel Plate

ASTM A516 remains a core material across high-risk and high-pressure industrial fields.

Energy & Oil/Gas

  • Crude oil storage tanks
  • LNG/LPG storage units
  • Distillation towers
  • Furnace and separator shells

Chemical & Petrochemical

  • Pressure vessels
  • Reactors and columns
  • Heat exchanger shells
  • Chemical storage tanks

Power Generation

  • Boiler drums
  • Heat-recovery systems
  • High-pressure steam equipment

Marine & Heavy Industry

  • Offshore module tanks
  • Shipboard process equipment

Its uniformity, strength, and weldability continue to drive global adoption.

Comparison Table: ASTM A516 vs ASTM A36

A516 and A36 are often compared in global procurement. The following table outlines the key differences:

Category ASTM A516 (Gr.60/65/70) ASTM A36
Material Type Pressure vessel steel General structural steel
Strength Level Higher (Grade 70 offers highest) Moderate
Toughness High, strong low-temperature performance Standard toughness
Weldability Excellent, designed for pressurized equipment Good
Chemical Controls (S, P) Strict Standard
Typical Thickness Medium to heavy plate (6–150 mm) Thin to medium plate
Primary Applications Boilers, pressure vessels, storage tanks, chemical equipment Buildings, bridges, frames, general structures
Price Level Higher due to specialized processing More economical
Suitable for Pressure Equipment ✔ Yes ✘ No
Suitable for Low-Temperature Use ✔ Yes ✘ No

Conclusion:

A516 is the correct choice for any pressurized, safety-critical, or temperature-sensitive equipment, while A36 is suitable for standard structural applications.

Procurement Advice for Global Buyers

Select the Correct Grade Based on Pressure Requirements

  • Grade 70 → Widely preferred for heavy-duty pressure vessels
  • Grade 65/60 → Suitable for lower-pressure environments

Confirm Normalizing Requirements (N or N+T)

Ensure alignment with ASME or project specifications.

Request EN10204 3.1 Mill Test Certificates

Essential for project traceability and international inspection compliance.

Consider Third-Party Inspection

SGS, BV, TUV, and Intertek are widely accepted by EPC contractors.

 Monitor Global Price Drivers

A516 price trends are highly correlated with:

  • Iron ore fluctuations
  • Energy costs
  • Dollar index performance
  • Mill production schedules in China, Korea

Pay Attention to Packaging & Transport Safety

Recommend:

Steel pallet + metal strapping

Rust-preventive oil

Wood bracing for container shipment or break-bulk loading

Market Outlook

With the continued expansion of the global energy sector and investment in refinery upgrades, LNG infrastructure, chemical plants, and power generation systems, demand for ASTM A516 steel plate remains strong and stable worldwide. Its reliable performance and proven track record ensure that it will remain a leading material in industrial equipment manufacturing for years to come.

ROYAL GROUP

Address

Kangsheng development industry zone,
Wuqing district, Tianjin city, China.

E-mail

sales01@royalsteelgroup.com

Phone

Sales Manager: +8613652091506

Hours

Monday-Sunday: 24-hour Service

Post time: Nov-18-2025