What are difference between A517 Grade B and A517 Grade F?

Jan 15, 2026 Leave a message

ASTM A517 Grades B and F are both high-strength, quenched and tempered alloy steel plates for fusion-welded pressure vessels, but differ in specific chemical composition (especially alloying elements like Molybdenum, Chromium) and impact toughness requirements, with Grade F generally offering higher toughness and often used for very thick plates, while Grade B (and others like A, E, H) offer excellent strength and weldability, all conforming to ASTM A517 for demanding applications like boilers and storage tanks.

 

A517 grade B Chemical Composition

 

A517 grade B Chemical Composition

Grade

The Element Max (%)

C

Si

Mn

P

S

A517 grade B

0.13-0.23

0.13-0.37

0.64-1.10

0.035

0.035

Cr

Mo

B

Ti

V

0.36-0.69

0.12-0.28

0.0005-0.005

0.01-0.05

0.02-0.09

 

A517 grade F Chemical Composition

 

A517 grade F Chemical Composition

Grade

The Element Max (%)

C

Si

Mn

P

S

Cu

A517 grade F

0.08-0.22

0.13-0.37

0.55-1.10

0.035

0.035

0.12-0.53

Cr

Mo

B

V

Ni

 

0.36-0.69

0.36-0.64

0.0005-0.006

0.02-0.09

0.67-1.03

 

 

A517 grade F Mechanical Property

 

Grade

 

A517 grade F Mechanical Property

Thickness

Yield

Tensile

Elongation

A517 grade F

mm

Min Mpa

Mpa

Min %

6-65

690

795-930

16%

65-150

620

725-930

14%

 

A517 grade B Mechanical Property

 

Grade

 

A517 grade B Mechanical Property

Thickness

Yield

Tensile

Elongation

A517 grade B

mm

Min Mpa

Mpa

Min %

6-65

690

795-930

16%

65-150

620

725-930

14%

 

Key Similarities:

Standard: Both fall under ASTM A517, for high-strength, quenched & tempered alloy steel plates.

Application: Used in fusion-welded boilers and other pressure vessels.

Heat Treatment: Both undergo quenching and tempering for enhanced strength.

High Strength: Both offer high tensile and yield strength, typically 100 ksi minimum yield for thinner plates.

Key Differences (General Comparison):

Chemical Composition: Specific alloy content (Cr, Mo, V, B, Ti) varies by grade, impacting properties like weldability and toughness.

Toughness: Grade F is known for its superior Charpy V-notch impact toughness, making it suitable for severe service, while Grade B has strong lateral expansion requirements.

Thickness: Grade F is often used for very thick sections (up to 2.5 inches or more), whereas Grade B might be for slightly thinner sections, though both can be produced thick.