ASTM A 738/A738M : 2012

1.1 This specification covers heat-treated carbon-manganese-silicon steel plates intended for use in welded pressure vessels at moderate and lower temperature service.

1.2 Material under this specification is available in four strength levels, 75 ksi [515 MPa], 85 ksi [585 MPa], 80 ksi [550 MPa], and 90 ksi [620 MPa] minimum ultimate tensile strengths.

1.3 The maximum thickness of plates is limited only by the capacity of the chemical composition and heat treatment to meet the specified mechanical property requirements; however, current practice normally limits the maximum thickness of plates furnished under this specification to 6 in. [ 150 mm] for Grade A, 4 in. [100 mm] for Grade B, and 6 in. [150 mm] for Grade C. For Grades D and E, the maximum permitted nominal thickness is 1.5 in. [40 mm].

1.4 Grade A is the material that, prior to 1984, was covered by Specification A738 without a grade designation.

1.5 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.