Difference between A517 Grade A and A517 Grade E

Jan 15, 2026 Leave a message

ASTM A517 Grade A and E are high-strength, quenched & tempered alloy steel plates for pressure vessels, but Grade E is a specific, tougher composition with controlled elements like Chromium (Cr) and Molybdenum (Mo), offering superior properties for critical applications like nuclear or cryogenic tanks, while Grade A signifies a base, perhaps less alloyed, offering high strength, but Grade E provides higher alloyed performance with excellent toughness. Both meet ASTM A517 specs for fusion-welded boilers, but Grade E adds specific alloying for enhanced performance, especially at low temperatures, requiring careful welding considerations.

 

A517 grade A Chemical Composition

 

A517 grade A Chemical Composition

Grade

The Element Max (%)

C

Si

Mn

P

S

A517 grade A

0.13-0.23

0.34-0.86

0.74-1.20

0.035

0.035

Cr

Mo

B

Zr

 

0.46-0.84

0.15-0.31

0.0025

0.04-0.16

 

 

A517 grade E Chemical Composition

 

A517 grade E Chemical Composition

Grade

The Element Max (%)

C

Si

Mn

P

S

A517 grade E

0.10-0.22

0.08-0.45

0.35-0.78

0.035

0.035

Cr

Mo

B

Ti

V

1.34-2.06

0.36-0.64

0.001-0.005

0.005-0.11

 

 

A517 grade A Mechanical Property

 

Grade

 

A517 grade A Mechanical Property

Thickness

Yield

Tensile

Elongation

A517 grade A

mm

Min Mpa

Mpa

Min %

6-65

690

795-930

16%

65-150

620

725-930

14%

 

A517 grade E Mechanical Property

 

Grade

 

A517 grade E Mechanical Property

Thickness

Yield

Tensile

Elongation

A517 grade E

mm

Min Mpa

Mpa

Min %

6-65

690

795-930

16%

65-150

620

725-930

14%

 

ASTM A517 Grade E (High Performance)

Type: High-strength, Quenched & Tempered Alloy Steel.

Key Elements: Contains specific amounts of Chromium (Cr) and Molybdenum (Mo) for enhanced properties.

Properties: High strength, excellent toughness, good plasticity, suitable for very low temperatures (cryogenic).

Applications: Unfired pressure vessels, nuclear facilities, cryogenic storage.

ASTM A517 Grade A (Base High Strength)

Type: High-strength, Quenched & Tempered Alloy Steel.

Properties: High tensile strength (e.g., 100 ksi yield strength for thicker plates), good for general pressure vessels.

 

Key Difference: While also high strength, Grade E is specifically alloyed for superior performance, particularly in demanding service conditions.

Key Similarities & Differences

Shared Standard: Both fall under ASTM A517 for pressure vessels.

Heat Treatment: Both require Quenching & Tempering (Q&T).

Strength: Both offer high strength, with Grade E being a specific, often more complex alloy formulation for tougher environments.