Difference between A515 Grade 65 and A516 Grade 65

Dec 15, 2025 Leave a message

A515 Grade 65 is for intermediate-to-high temperature pressure vessels, focusing on strength at heat, while A516 Grade 65 is for moderate-to-low temperature service, prioritizing superior notch toughness (impact resistance) at colder temperatures, though both share similar strength levels (min yield ~240 MPa, tensile ~450-585 MPa). The key distinction is application: A515 for heat, A516 for cold/impact.

 

Chemical Composition of ASTM A515 Grade 65

 

Element

Product Analysis Max (%)

Ladle Analysis Max (%)

Carbon (C)

0.28-0.33

0.28-0.33

Manganese (Mn)

0.98

0.90

Phosphorus (P)

0.035

0.035

Sulfur (S)

0.035

0.035

Silicon (Si)

0.13-0.45

0.15-0.40

 

Chemical Composition of ASTM A516 Grade 65

 

C
(%)

Mn 1)
(%)

P 2)
(%)

S 2)
(%)

Si
(%)

0.24

0.85 - 1.20

0.020

0.010

0.15 - 0.40

 

Mechanical Properties of ASTM A515 Grade 65

 

Thickness (mm)

Yield Strength (Min Mpa)

Tensile Strength (Mpa)

Elongation (Min %)

≤ 200

240

450-585

19

≤ 50

240

450-585

23

 

Mechanical Properties of ASTM A516 Grade 65

 

Grade

Yield strength
(min ksi)

Tensile strength
(ksi)

Elongation in 2" 1)
(min %)

Elongation in 8" 1)
(min %)

65

35

65 - 85

23

19

 

ASTM A515 Grade 65
Primary Use: Intermediate to higher temperature pressure vessels.
Key Feature: Higher carbon content (around 0.28-0.33%) gives it better high-temp strength.
Performance: Stronger and more durable at elevated temperatures.
ASTM A516 Grade 65
Primary Use: Moderate to lower temperature pressure vessels, with emphasis on toughness.
Key Feature: Optimized for better notch toughness (impact strength) in colder conditions.
Performance: Excellent weldability and performance in sub-zero to moderate temperatures.
Key Similarities (Grade 65 Specific)
Yield Strength: Minimum 240 MPa (35 ksi).
Tensile Strength: 450-585 MPa (65-85 ksi).
Application: Both used in welded boilers & pressure vessels.
In Simple Terms:
Choose A515 Gr. 65 if your vessel runs hot; choose A516 Gr. 65 if it runs cold and needs to resist shattering from impacts.