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X52 | L360 | L360NB | HSLA Pipeline Steel

X52 | L360 | L360NB | HSLA Pipeline Steel

X52 is a high-strength, low-alloy (HSLA) steel used in pipeline construction. It conforms to the API 5L standard. The “X” signifies the steel grade, and “52” indicates the minimum yield strength of 52 ksi. Equivalent grades include L360NB (EN) and  L360 (ISO). X52 features good weldability, toughness, and corrosion resistance. It is primarily used in the oil and gas industry to construct pipelines to transport petroleum and natural gas.

Description

What Is X52?

X52 is a type of pipeline steel composed of iron and carbon. It is typically solid with no special color, featuring high strength and toughness. X52 pipeline steel is processed through hot rolling and offers good weldability and corrosion resistance. It is primarily used in the construction of oil and gas pipelines. Based on strength and toughness, X52 pipeline steel can be further classified into low-carbon and medium-carbon grades.

Characteristics of X52

X52 steel offers excellent strength and toughness, making it ideal for high-pressure applications. It has good weldability and resistance to corrosion, which is essential for pipeline integrity. This steel is cost-effective and reliable for transporting oil and gas. Consider using X60, X70, or X80 steel grades for applications requiring higher strength or better corrosion resistance. These alternatives provide enhanced properties to meet more demanding conditions. X52 steel is commonly used in oil and gas pipelines, water transmission lines, and other critical infrastructure projects where reliability and durability are paramount.

Chemical Compositions

ElementContent (%)
Carbon, C0.22 max
Manganese, Mn1.40 max
Phosphorus, P0.025 max
Sulfur, S0.015 max
Silicon, Si0.45 max
Chromium, Cr0.30 max
Nickel, Ni0.30 max
Copper, Cu0.30 max
Molybdenum, Mo0.15 max
Vanadium, V0.10 max

Physical Properties

PropertyMetric ValueImperial Value
Density7.85 g/cm³0.284 lb/in³
Melting Point1425-1540 °C2597-2800 °F
Boiling Point
Thermal Conductivity50 W/m·K28.9 BTU/(hr·ft·°F)
Electrical Conductivity1.6 MS/m1.6 MS/m
Specific Heat Capacity0.49 J/g·K0.117 BTU/(lb·°F)
Thermal Expansion Coefficient11.7 µm/m·°C6.5 µin/in·°F
Electrical Resistivity0.62 µΩ·m0.62 µΩ·m

Mechanical Properties

AC (Air Cooled) Sate

PropertyMetric ValueImperial Value
Tensile Strength460 MPa66.7 ksi
Yield Strength360 MPa52.2 ksi
Brinell Hardness237 HB237 HB
Rockwell Hardness20.7 HRB20.7 HRB
Vickers Hardness225 HV225 HV
Elongation21%21%
Elastic Modulus200 GPa29 msi

QT (Quenched & Tempered) State

opertyMetric ValueImperial Value
Tensile Strength530-760 MPa76.9-110.2 ksi
Yield Strength360 MPa52,200 psi
Elongation21%21%
Reduction of Area
Impact Absorption Energy
Elastic Modulus200 GPa29 msi

Industries & Applications

IndustryApplication
Oil and GasPipelines, Offshore Drilling Rigs, Refineries, Storage Tanks
PetrochemicalProcess Piping, Heat Exchangers, Pressure Vessels, Reactors
ConstructionStructural Tubing, Piling, Beams, Columns
Power GenerationBoilers, Heat Recovery Steam Generators, Turbines, Nuclear Reactor Components
AutomotiveChassis Components, Fuel Systems, Exhaust Systems, Structural Parts
MarineShipbuilding, Offshore Platforms, Subsea Pipelines, Deck Structures
Chemical ProcessingStorage Tanks, Processing Equipment, Conveyance Piping, Reactors
Water TreatmentWater Mains, Treatment Plant Components, Pumping Stations, Pressure Pipes

Machining

Heat Treatment

  • Normalizing: Heat the steel to 870°C to 900°C (1600°F to 1650°F), hold for 1 hour per inch of thickness, then cool in still air.
  • Annealing: Heat the steel to 850°C to 900°C (1562°F to 1652°F), hold for 1 hour per inch of thickness, cool slowly in the furnace to 650°C (1202°F), then allow to cool in air.
  • Quenching: Heat the steel to 860°C to 900°C (1580°F to 1650°F), hold for 1 hour per inch of thickness, then rapidly quench in water or oil.
  • Tempering: Reheat the quenched steel to 540°C to 680°C (1000°F to 1250°F), hold for 1 hour per inch of thickness, then allow to cool in air.
  • Stress Relieving: Heat the steel to 540°C to 650°C (1000°F to 1200°F), hold for 1 hour per inch of thickness, then cool in still air.

Surface Finish

  • Hot Rolling: Enhances surface flatness and uniformity.
  • Pickling: Removes scale and oxides from the surface.
  • Sand Blasting: Provides a clean and rough surface for better adhesion.
  • Galvanizing: Adds a protective zinc coating to prevent corrosion.
  • Painting: Applies a protective and decorative coating to the surface.

*Customization is available upon request.

Disclaimer

The provided heat treatment and surface treatment processes are general guidelines. Actual conditions may vary depending on specific applications and requirements. It is recommended to consult with a professional metallurgist or material scientist to tailor the processes to your particular needs. The information herein is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon as such.

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