SA517 GR.H alloy pressure vessel steel plate is a high-strength, quenched, and tempered steel designed for use in the construction of pressure vessels. Due to its excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength, impact resistance, and weldability, this steel is widely used in industries such as power generation, chemical processing, and heavy engineering. The price of SA517 GR.H steel plate is influenced by factors such as global supply and demand, raw material costs, and market conditions, with regional price variations offering different pricing structures in major manufacturing hubs worldwide.
1. Introduction to SA517 GR.H Alloy Pressure Vessel Steel Plate
SA517 GR.H is an advanced grade of steel specifically designed for high-pressure, high-temperature environments. It is often used in the manufacturing of pressure vessels and reactors, typically found in industries that require high-strength materials to withstand extreme conditions. The key characteristics of SA517 GR.H steel include high tensile strength, excellent toughness, and superior resistance to corrosion. It is primarily available in plate form and is often processed into components for boilers, tanks, and reactors.
This alloy is produced using a controlled quenching and tempering process, which enhances its mechanical properties, making it suitable for critical applications where failure is not an option.
2. Key Specifications of SA517 GR.H Alloy Pressure Vessel Steel Plate
SA517 GR.H steel plate is characterized by its specific chemical composition and mechanical properties, which make it an ideal choice for high-stress applications. Below are the critical specifications:
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Chemical Composition:
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Carbon (C): 0.12% max
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Manganese (Mn): 0.90% – 1.50%
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Phosphorus (P): 0.025% max
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Sulfur (S): 0.025% max
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Silicon (Si): 0.15% – 0.40%
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Chromium (Cr): 0.90% – 1.50%
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Nickel (Ni): 0.50% – 1.00%
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Molybdenum (Mo): 0.30% – 0.60%
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Mechanical Properties:
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Yield Strength: 690 MPa (minimum)
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Tensile Strength: 700 – 900 MPa
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Elongation: 18% (min)
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Impact Strength: -50°C (minimum)
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Hardness: 200 HB max
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Thickness Range: The steel plates are typically available in thicknesses ranging from 6 mm to 100 mm, depending on the application requirements.
These properties make SA517 GR.H ideal for use in environments where steel plates must endure high stress and exposure to extreme temperatures and pressures.
3. Global Price Trends for SA517 GR.H Alloy Pressure Vessel Steel Plate (2025)
The price of SA517 GR.H alloy steel plate varies based on several factors, including production costs, market conditions, and regional pricing strategies. In 2025, prices are expected to be influenced by fluctuations in raw material costs, especially iron ore, scrap metal, and energy prices, which can impact steel production costs.
Price Comparison Table (Global Pricing 2025):
| Region | Price per Ton (USD) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 1,250 | 1,200 – 1,300 |
| China | 1,100 | 1,050 – 1,150 |
| Europe | 1,300 | 1,250 – 1,350 |
| India | 1,150 | 1,100 – 1,200 |
| Japan | 1,250 | 1,200 – 1,300 |
As seen in the table above, the prices for SA517 GR.H steel plate vary across different regions, with North America and Europe typically commanding higher prices due to increased demand for high-quality materials and higher production costs. In contrast, prices in China and India tend to be more affordable due to local production capacities and competitive market dynamics.
4. Factors Affecting the Price of SA517 GR.H Alloy Steel Plate
Several factors influence the pricing of SA517 GR.H steel, including:
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Raw Material Costs: The prices of steel-making raw materials, such as iron ore and coke, directly impact the overall price of the finished product.
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Supply and Demand: The demand for high-strength materials, particularly in the oil and gas, power, and chemical industries, plays a major role in shaping the price of this alloy steel.
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Transportation Costs: Shipping and logistics can add to the final price, especially for overseas shipments.
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Manufacturing Techniques: The quenching and tempering processes, along with the required certifications for pressure vessel applications, increase production costs.
As global supply chains stabilize post-pandemic, we expect prices to experience slight fluctuations based on regional demands and the availability of raw materials.
5. Applications of SA517 GR.H Alloy Pressure Vessel Steel Plate
The primary application of SA517 GR.H is in the manufacturing of pressure vessels. These vessels are used to store gases or liquids at high pressures, such as in:
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Pressure Vessels for the Chemical Industry: Used in reactors, separators, and tanks.
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Boilers and Heat Exchangers: In industries requiring high-temperature heat transfer.
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Power Plant Applications: Including steam boilers, steam pipelines, and turbines.
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Nuclear Industry: For the construction of components that handle high pressure and temperature conditions.
The steel’s ability to withstand extreme conditions without failure makes it indispensable in these industries, where material integrity is critical.
6. Advantages of SA517 GR.H Alloy Pressure Vessel Steel Plate
The primary advantages of SA517 GR.H steel include:
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High Strength and Durability: The steel’s high tensile strength ensures it can handle high-pressure environments, while its resistance to brittle fracture increases its durability.
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Excellent Weldability: This alloy is designed for ease of welding, making it suitable for complex fabrication processes.
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Superior Toughness: The steel’s ability to maintain toughness at low temperatures makes it ideal for extreme conditions.
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Corrosion Resistance: Enhanced resistance to corrosion in both marine and industrial environments.
These properties make SA517 GR.H a preferred choice in demanding applications where failure could result in catastrophic consequences.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between SA517 GR.H and other pressure vessel steels?
SA517 GR.H is specifically designed for high-strength applications, offering higher tensile strength and toughness compared to standard pressure vessel steels like SA516.
2. Can SA517 GR.H be used for offshore oil and gas applications?
Yes, SA517 GR.H is suitable for use in offshore oil and gas applications due to its excellent resistance to both high pressure and corrosive marine environments.
3. Is SA517 GR.H steel plate weldable?
Yes, SA517 GR.H steel is highly weldable, making it a good choice for pressure vessel manufacturing, where welding is a common fabrication method.
4. How is the price of SA517 GR.H steel determined?
The price is determined by raw material costs, manufacturing processes, regional supply and demand, and shipping costs.
5. Can SA517 GR.H be used in nuclear applications?
Yes, due to its high strength and resistance to extreme pressure and temperature, SA517 GR.H is sometimes used in the construction of nuclear reactor components.
8. Conclusion
In conclusion, SA517 GR.H alloy pressure vessel steel plate is a critical material for industries requiring high-strength, durable materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions. Its price in 2025 will be shaped by global supply and demand, material costs, and regional market dynamics. Understanding these factors and the steel’s key characteristics is essential for making informed purchasing decisions for pressure vessel applications.
