Difference between A202 Grade B and A203 Grade B

Jan 15, 2026 Leave a message

ASTM A202 Grade B (Cr-Mn-Si) and ASTM A203 Grade B (Ni-alloyed) are distinct pressure vessel steels differing in composition, primarily A202's chromium-manganese-silicon for general use vs. A203's nickel content for better low-temperature toughness, both designed for boilers and pressure vessels but serving different service conditions, with A202 for higher temps and A203 for colder applications.

 

A202 Grade B Chemical Composition

 

A202 Grade B Chemical Composition

Grade

The Element Max (%)

C

Si

Mn

P

S

A202 Grade B

0.25

0.54-0.90

0.97-1.52

0.035

0.035

 

A203 Grade B Chemical Composition

 

A203 Grade B Chemical Composition

Grade

The Element Max (%)

C

Si

Mn

P

S

A203 Grade B

0.17

0.13-0.45

0.78-0.88

0.035

0.035

 

A202 Grade B Mechanical Property

 

Grade

 

A202 Grade B Mechanical Property

Thickness

Yield

Tensile

Elongation

A202 Grade B

mm

Min Mpa

Mpa

Min %

6-50

325

587-760

18%

50-100

325

587-760

15%

 

A203 Grade B Mechanical Property

 

Mechanical Property of A203 Grade B steel plate

A203 Grade B

Tensile strength, kis [MPa]

70-90[485-620]

Yield strength, min, kis [MPa]

40 [275]

Elongation in 8 in. [200 mm], min, %

17

Elongation in 2 in. [50 mm], min, %

21

 

ASTM A202 Grade B

Type: Chromium-Manganese-Silicon (Cr-Mn-Si) alloy steel.

Application: Used for welded boilers and pressure vessels, generally for higher temperature service.

Properties: Offers good weldability and mechanical strength, often supplied normalized or stress-relieved.

ASTM A203 Grade B

Type: Nickel-alloyed steel, specifically for low-temperature service.

Application: Fabricated for low-temperature pressure vessels in industries like oil, gas, and power.

Properties: Enhanced toughness at low temperatures due to its nickel content, requiring killing and fine-grain practices.

Key Differences

Alloy Content: A202 uses Cr-Mn-Si, while A203 uses Nickel for specific low-temp properties.

Service Temperature: A202 is more for general/higher temps; A203 is specifically for low temperatures.

Standard: Both fall under ASTM standards for pressure vessel plates but are distinct materials.