ASTM A554
Basic Info
ASTM A554 specifies the requirements for welded stainless steel mechanical tubing for structural applications. This standard covers a variety of sizes and shapes of welded tubes used in architectural, structural, and decorative applications. It ensures the dimensional accuracy and mechanical properties of stainless steel tubing for structural purposes.
Characteristics
Structural Applications: ASTM A554 specifies welded stainless steel mechanical tubing for structural applications, providing structural support in architectural and industrial settings.
Aesthetic Appeal: A554 tubing often features a polished or brushed finish, making it suitable for decorative and architectural applications.
Dimensional Precision: The standard ensures precise dimensional control of welded stainless steel tubing, crucial for structural integrity and compatibility in various applications.
Corrosion Resistance: A554 tubing offers excellent resistance to corrosion, ensuring durability and longevity in outdoor and corrosive environments.
ASTM A554 Data Sheet
Steel Grade
Dimensions and Tolerances
Equivalent Grades
Chemical Composition
Mechanical Properties
Fabrication and Welding
Steel Grade
201
304
316
409
430
Dimensions and Tolerances
Round Tubing
Diameter: 1/2″ (12.7 mm) to 8″ (203.2 mm)
Wall Thickness: 0.035″ (0.89 mm) to 0.120″ (3.05 mm)
Tolerances
Outside Diameter: ±0.005″ (±0.13 mm)
Wall Thickness: ±10% of nominal wall thickness
Square Tubing
Size: 1/2″ × 1/2″ (12.7 mm × 12.7 mm) to 8″ × 8″ (203.2 mm × 203.2 mm)
Wall Thickness: 0.035″ (0.89 mm) to 0.120″ (3.05 mm)
Tolerances
Side Length: ±0.015″ (±0.38 mm)
Wall Thickness: ±10% of nominal wall thickness
Rectangular Tubing
Size: 1″ × 1/2″ (25.4 mm × 12.7 mm) to 12″ × 6″ (304.8 mm × 152.4 mm)
Wall Thickness: 0.035″ (0.89 mm) to 0.120″ (3.05 mm)
Tolerances
Width: ±0.020″ (±0.51 mm)
Height: ±0.010″ (±0.25 mm)
Wall Thickness: ±10% of nominal wall thickness
Elliptical Tubing
Major Axis: 1″ (25.4 mm) to 4″ (101.6 mm)
Minor Axis: 1/2″ (12.7 mm) to 2-1/2″ (63.5 mm)
Wall Thickness: 0.035″ (0.89 mm) to 0.120″ (3.05 mm)
Tolerances
Major Axis: ±0.030″ (±0.76 mm)
Minor Axis: ±0.020″ (±0.51 mm)
Wall Thickness: ±10% of nominal wall thickness
Corner Radii: ≤1.5 times the specified wall thickness
Equivalent Grades
United Kingdom
BS 1387:1985
Germany
DIN 2395
Japan
JIS G3446
Chemical Composition
Carbon (C): ≤ 0.07%
Manganese (Mn): ≤ 2.00%
Phosphorus (P): ≤ 0.045%
Sulfur (S): ≤ 0.030%
Silicon (Si):≤ 1.00%
Chromium (Cr):16.00-18.00%
Nickel (Ni):11.00-14.00%
Mechanical Properties
Tensile Strength
Annealed: ≥ 515 MPa
Cold Worked: ≥ 690 MPa
Yield Strength
Annealed: ≥ 205 MPa
Cold Worked: ≥ 515 MPa
Elongation
Annealed: ≥ 40%
Cold Worked: ≥ 10%
Hardness
Annealed: ≤ 201 HBW
Cold Worked: ≤ 241 HBW
Impact Toughness: Not specified
Modulus of Elasticity: 200 GPa
Poisson’s Ratio: 0.3
Fabrication and Welding
Formability
ASTM A554 stainless steel offers good formability, allowing it to be easily bent, shaped, and fabricated into various configurations, including tubes, pipes, and structural components.
Machinability
ASTM A554 stainless steel generally exhibits good machinability, although it can vary depending on the specific grade, heat treatment, and surface finish. It can be machined using conventional methods such as turning, milling, and drilling.
Weldability
ASTM A554 stainless steel is readily weldable using common welding techniques such as TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), MIG (Metal Inert Gas), and SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding).
Welding Precautions
Proper cleaning of the weld area is crucial to remove contaminants such as oils, grease, and dirt, which can affect weld quality. Shielding gases must be used to protect the weld pool from atmospheric contamination, particularly for TIG and MIG welding.
Heat Affected Zone (HAZ)
Control of heat input during welding is essential to minimize the size and impact of the heat-affected zone (HAZ) on the material’s properties. Excessive heat can lead to distortion, metallurgical changes, and reduced corrosion resistance in the HAZ.
Post-Weld Heat Treatment
Post-weld heat treatment may be required depending on the specific grade, welding method, and desired properties. Heat treatment processes such as annealing, solution annealing, or stress relieving can help restore material properties and reduce residual stresses.
Filler Materials
Matching or slightly overmatching filler materials should be used to ensure compatibility with the base metal and maintain the desired mechanical properties of the welded joint. Various filler metal options are available, including austenitic stainless steel, nickel-based alloys, and duplex stainless steel.
Unveiling the Versatility of ASTM A554 Stainless Steel: From Iconic Architecture to Everyday Innovation
ASTM A554 stainless steel stands out as a highly versatile material, coveted by engineers, architects, and designers alike for its exceptional adaptability across a myriad of applications. Renowned for its superior corrosion resistance, durability, and aesthetic appeal, ASTM A554 stainless steel transcends traditional boundaries, finding its place in architectural marvels, structural masterpieces, and everyday consumer products. From sleek and modern architectural designs to robust structural components in industrial settings, ASTM A554 stainless steel offers unparalleled versatility, blending form with function seamlessly. Its ability to be effortlessly shaped, welded, and fabricated empowers creators to realize their boldest visions with precision and confidence. Whether adorning iconic landmarks, enhancing interior spaces, or providing reliable solutions in demanding environments, ASTM A554 stainless steel remains the material of choice, embodying innovation, reliability, and timeless elegance.
