ASTM A53 and 106 is vastly applied in general industrials, sometime it can be switched to each other as an alternative. This article will highlight some key different that will help you to identify the risks in material selection between A53 and A106

The scope of ASTM A106 and A53

ASTM A53 specification covers the steel pipe manufacturing types in seamless and welded, material in carbon steel, black steel. Surface natural, black, and hot-dipped galvanized, zinc coated steel pipe. Diameters range from NPS 1⁄8 to NPS 26 (10.3mm to 660mm), nominal wall thickness.

ASTM A106 standard specification covers the seamless carbon steel pipe only, applied for high-temperature services.

Different types and grades for both standard

ASTM A53 steel pipe types and grades

For ASTM A53 there are ERW and seamless steel pipes Type F, E, S covers Grade A and B.

A53 Type F, furnace butt welded, continuous weld Grade A only
A53 Type E, Electric resistance welded (ERW), in Grade A and Grade B.
A53 Type S, Seamless steel pipe, in Grade A and Grade B.

ASTM A106 steel pipe types and grades

For ASTM A106 steel pipe, manufacturing Type only in seamless, processes hot rolled and the cold drawn. Grade in A, B and C.

Differences on Chemical and Mechanical properties

Applications for both standards

Both pipes applied for mechanical and pressure systems, transporting steam, water, gas, and etc.

ASTM A53 pipe application

1. Construction, underground transportation, extraction of ground water while building, steam water transportation etc.
2. Bearing sets, machinery parts processing.
3. Electric application: Gas transmission, water power generation fluid pipeline.
4. Wind power plant anti-static tube etc.
5. Pipelines that required zinc coated.

ASTM A106 pipe application

Especially for high temperature services that up to 750°F, and it could substitute ASTM A53 pipe in most of the cases. In some country at least in United States, usually ASTM A53 is for welded pipe while ASTM A106 is for seamless pipe. And if client asked for ASTM A53 they will also offer A106. In China, manufacturer will offer the pipe that comply to three standards ASTM A53 B / ASTM A106 B / API 5L B.