What is ASTM A537 Class 3 (A537 Cl.3) Steel Plates?

As your reliable supplier, GNEE offers ASTM A537 Cl 3 steel plates tailored for welded pressure vessels requiring balanced properties between Class 1 and 2.
This grade undergoes quenching and tempering-rapid cooling after heating, followed by controlled reheating-to optimize hardness and ductility for services with moderate temperatures and pressures.
It's compliant with ASME SA537/SA537M steel plate standards, ideal for sour gas resistance when HIC-tested.
At GNEE, we source and process plates for boiler heads, storage spheres, and separators, allowing efficient designs in challenging conditions.
Compared to ASME SA 537 Class 1, it provides enhanced yield for cost savings in intermediate applications.
Chemical Composition of ASTM A537 Class 3
The composition focuses on controlled carbon for weldability and manganese for strength adjustment by thickness.
In astm a537 class 3 boiler steel chemical composition details, low impurities ensure durability, with silicon for deoxidation.
Optional alloys like nickel improve low-temperature performance if specified.
Composition table:
|
Element |
Composition (%) |
|---|---|
|
Carbon (C) |
0.24 max |
|
Manganese (Mn) |
0.70-1.35 (≤40mm thickness) 1.00-1.60 (>40mm thickness) |
|
Phosphorus (P) |
0.035 max |
|
Sulfur (S) |
0.035 max |
|
Silicon (Si) |
0.15-0.50 |
|
Copper (Cu) |
0.35 max (if specified) |
|
Nickel (Ni) |
0.25 max (if specified) |
|
Chromium (Cr) |
0.25 max (if specified) |
|
Molybdenum (Mo) |
0.08 max (if specified) |
Mechanical Properties of ASTM A537 Class 3
A537 Class 3 offers solid properties for versatile use, with yield varying by thickness.
Per a537 cl.3 mechanical properties and density guide, it balances strength for moderate vessels.
Properties table:
|
Property |
Value |
|---|---|
|
Tensile Strength |
75-95 ksi (515-655 MPa) (≤65mm) 70-90 ksi (485-620 MPa) (>65-100mm) 65-85 ksi (450-585 MPa) (>100-150mm) |
|
Yield Strength |
55 ksi (380 MPa) min (≤65mm) 50 ksi (345 MPa) min (>65-100mm) 40 ksi (275 MPa) min (>100-150mm) |
|
Elongation (in 50mm) |
22% min (≤100mm) 20% min (>100mm) |
|
Reduction in Area |
Not specified, typically high |
Density and Delivery Condition
Density aligns with a537 cl.3 mechanical properties and density guide at 7.85 g/cm³ (7850 kg/m³).
Plates are delivered quenched and tempered, with GNEE providing options like impact testing and PWHT simulation.
Available Specifications and Models
GNEE manufactures A537 Class 3 in flexible dimensions to suit various project requirements:
- Thickness: 6mm to 150mm
- Width: 1500mm to 3500mm
- Length: 3000mm to 18000mm
Specifications: Compliant with ASTM A537 Class 3 and ASME SA537 Class 3; custom beveling, edge preparation, and ultrasonic testing available upon request.
We also offer value-added models with HIC resistance or Z-direction properties for thick sections, ensuring no issues during fabrication.
Pricing Insights for ASTM A537 Class 3
As of September 29, 2025, current pricing for astm a537 class 3 pressure vessel plates ranges $800-2,800 per metric ton.
Standard plates (20-50mm) average $900-1,500/ton, with premiums for customized or tested options.
In Asia, prices start at $850/ton; Europe/NA at $1,600-2,500.
GNEE quotes from $900/ton for bulk, influenced by alloy costs and market demand.
Equivalent Materials for ASTM A537 Class 3
Equivalents facilitate international projects with similar properties.
From the USA, ASME SA537 Class 3 is direct.
- In the European Union, EN 10028-3 P420NH offers comparable quenched and tempered fine-grain structure.
- Germany's DIN 17102 WStE355 provides matching toughness for welded vessels.
- Japan's JIS G3115 SPV450 is a high-strength boiler equivalent with good weldability.
- The UK's BS EN 10028-3 P420NH aligns for elevated temperature service.
- China's GB 713 14Cr1MoR matches in heat-resistant alloying.
- Korea's KS D 3560 SPV450 offers parallel mechanicals for tanks.
- France's AFNOR 15CD4-05 provides equivalent composition for pressure equipment.
- India's IS 2002 Gr.2 is similar for boiler plates.
- Australia's AS 1548 PT430N shares normalized/Q&T options.
Table:
|
Standard/Country |
Grade/Equivalent |
Key Features |
Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
|
ASTM (USA) |
Class 3 |
Q&T, yield 380 MPa |
Moderate-pressure vessels |
|
ASME (USA) |
Class 3 |
Identical |
Boilers |
|
EN (EU) |
P420NH |
Similar composition |
Elevated temp service |
|
DIN (Germany) |
WStE355 |
High strength and toughness |
Structural vessels |
|
JIS (Japan) |
SPV450 |
High-strength |
Pressure boilers |
|
GB (China) |
14Cr1MoR |
Alloyed for heat resistance |
Petrochemical reactors |
|
KS (Korea) |
SPV450 |
Good weldability |
Industrial tanks |
|
AFNOR (France) |
15CD4-05 |
Comparable mechanicals |
Welded pressure equipment |
|
IS (India) |
2002 Gr.2 |
Boiler-grade strength |
Storage tanks |
|
AS (Australia) |
1548 PT430N |
Normalized/Q&T |
High-temp vessels |
Applications and Advantages in Boiler Systems
A537 Class 3 suits intermediate boilers, chemical tanks, and gas separators.
It resists moderate corrosion, supports efficient welding, and allows balanced designs for cost savings.
In power generation, it handles steam pressures; in refining, mild corrosives.
Advantages include creep resistance, reducing failures in cyclic operations.
In summary, ASTM A537 Class 3 (A537 Cl.3) steel plates from GNEE offer balanced strength and toughness for moderate applications, with customizable specs and reliable performance. As your trusted supplier, we provide competitive pricing and global delivery-reach out for quotes on ASTM A537 Cl 3 steel plates to support your next project.
astm a537 class 3 boiler steel chemical composition details, a537 cl.3 mechanical properties and density guide, current pricing for astm a537 class 3 pressure vessel plates
If you want to learn more about GNEE's products, you can send an email to alloy@gneesteelgroup.com. We are more than happy to assist you.
FAQ
Q: What Is ASTM A537 Class 3 Material?
A: ASTM A537 Class 3 is a quenched and tempered carbon-manganese-silicon steel plate for pressure vessels, offering intermediate strength (yield 55 ksi min) between Classes 1 and 2. Heat-treated for balanced toughness, it's ideal for moderate-temperature services, with tensile 75-95 ksi and elongation 22% min. Equivalent to ASME SA537 Class 3, it's used in boilers and tanks, providing HIC resistance for sour environments when tested.
Q: What Is The Difference Between A537 Class 2 And Class 3?
A: A537 Class 2 has higher yield (60 ksi min) for demanding high-pressure services, while Class 3 offers lower yield (55 ksi min) but better formability for moderate applications. Both are quenched/tempered, but Class 3 suits intermediate needs with tensile 75-95 ksi vs Class 2's 80-100 ksi. Class 3 is cost-effective for less extreme conditions, with similar welding but potentially easier fabrication.
Q: What Applications Suit A537 Class 3 Plates?
A: A537 Class 3 is suitable for moderate-pressure boilers, chemical storage tanks, and gas processing vessels. It's used in power plants for steam components, petrochemicals for reactors, and oil/gas for separators. Its toughness fits low to moderate temp services, with HIC testing for corrosives, making it versatile for balanced designs extending lifespan in cyclic loads.
Q: Is A537 Class 3 Equivalent To SA537 Class 3?
A: Yes, A537 Class 3 is equivalent to ASME SA537 Class 3, with identical composition (carbon 0.24% max) and properties (yield 55 ksi min). ASTM A537 is material-focused, SA537 for ASME codes like Section VIII. Equivalents include EN P420NH and JIS SPV450; verify for projects.
Q: What Thickness Ranges Are Available For A537 Class 3 Plates?
A: A537 Class 3 ranges from 6mm to 150mm thick, with properties adjusting: yield 55 ksi (≤65mm), 50 ksi (65-100mm), 40 ksi (100-150mm). GNEE offers widths to 3500mm and lengths to 18000mm, with custom cuts. Thicker plates suit heavy vessels, with Z-testing available.
Q: Does A537 Class 3 Require Impact Testing?
A: Yes, Charpy V-notch testing is common, at -20°C or lower, ensuring 27J min energy for fracture resistance. Essential for low-temp or sour services, GNEE provides tested plates compliant with API 934.
Q: Can A537 Class 3 Be Used In Sour Service?
A: Yes, with HIC/SCC testing per NACE TM0284/TM0177, its low sulfur minimizes cracking. Certified to NACE MR0175/ISO 15156, it's suitable for oil scrubbers. GNEE offers variants with enhanced purity for aggressive media.
| Grades Of Pressure Vessel Plates Supplied By GNEE | |||||
| ASTM | ASTM A202/A202M | ASTM A202 Grade A | ASTM A202 Grade B | ||
| ASTM A203/A203M | ASTM A203 Grade A | ASTM A203 Grade B | ASTM A203 Grade D | ASTM A203 Grade E | |
| ASTM A203 Grade F | |||||
| ASTM A204/A204M | ASTM A204 Grade A | ASTM A204 Grade B | ASTM A204 Grade C | ||
| ASTM A285/A285M | ASTM A285 Grade A | ASTM A285 Grade B | ASTM A285 Grade C | ||
| ASTM A299/A299M | ASTM A299 Grade A | ASTM A299 Grade B | |||
| ASTM A302/A302M | ASTM A302 Grade A | ASTM A302 Grade B | ASTM A302 Grade C | ASTM A302 Grade D | |
| ASTM A387/A387M | ASTM A387 Grade 5 Class1 | ASTM A387 Grade 5 Class2 | ASTM A387 Grade 11 Class1 | ASTM A387 Grade 11 Class2 | |
| ASTM A387 Grade 12 Class1 | ASTM A387 Grade 12 Class2 | ASTM A387 Grade 22 Class1 | ASTM A387 Grade 22 Class2 | ||
| ASTM A515/A515M | ASTM A515 Grade 60 | ASTM A515 Grade 65 | ASTM A515 Grade 70 | ||
| ASTM A516/A516M | ASTM A516 Grade 55 | ASTM A516 Grade 60 | ASTM A516 Grade 65 | ASTM A516 Grade 70 | |
| ASTM A517/A517M | ASTM A517 Grade A | ASTM A517 Grade B | ASTM A517 Grade E | ASTM A517 Grade F | |
| ASTM A517 Grade P | ASTM A517 Grade J | ||||
| ASTM A533/A533M | ASTM A533 Grade A Class1 | ASTM A533 Grade B Class1 | ASTM A533 Grade C Class1 | ASTM A533 Grade D Class1 | |
| ASTM A533 Grade A Class2 | ASTM A533 Grade B Class2 | ASTM A533 Grade C Class2 | ASTM A533 Grade D Class2 | ||
| ASTM A533 Grade A Class3 | ASTM A533 Grade B Class3 | ASTM A533 Grade C Class3 | ASTM A533 Grade D Class3 | ||
| ASTM A537/A537M | ASTM A537 Class1 | ASTM A537 Class2 | ASTM A537 Class3 | ||
| ASTM A612/A612M | ASTM A612 | ||||
| ASTM A662/A662M | ASTM A662 Grade A | ASTM A662 Grade B | ASTM A662 Grade C | ||
| EN | EN10028-2 | EN10028-2 P235GH | EN10028-2 P265GH | EN10028-2 P295GH | EN10028-2 P355GH |
| EN10028-2 16MO3 | |||||
| EN10028-3 | EN10028-3 P275N | EN10028-3 P275NH | EN10028-3 P275NL1 | EN10028-3 P275NL2 | |
| EN10028-3 P355N | EN10028-3 P355NH | EN10028-3 P355NL1 | EN10028-3 P355NL2 | ||
| EN10028-3 P460N | EN10028-3 P460NH | EN10028-3 P460NL1 | EN10028-3 P460NL2 | ||
| EN10028-5 | EN10028-5 P355M | EN10028-5 P355ML1 | EN10028-5 P355ML2 | EN10028-5 P420M | |
| EN10028-5 P420ML1 | EN10028-5 P420ML2 | EN10028-5 P460M | EN10028-5 P460ML1 | ||
| EN10028-5 P460ML2 | |||||
| EN10028-6 | EN10028-6 P355Q | EN10028-6 P460Q | EN10028-6 P500Q | EN10028-6 P690Q | |
| EN10028-6 P355QH | EN10028-6 P460QH | EN10028-6 P500QH | EN10028-6 P690QH | ||
| EN10028-6 P355QL1 | EN10028-6 P460QL1 | EN10028-6 P500QL1 | EN10028-6 P690QL1 | ||
| EN10028-6 P355QL2 | EN10028-6 P460QL2 | EN10028-6 P500QL2 | EN10028-6 P690QL2 | ||
| JIS | JIS G3115 | JIS G3115 SPV235 | JIS G3115 SPV315 | JIS G3115 SPV355 | JIS G3115 SPV410 |
| JIS G3115 SPV450 | JIS G3115 SPV490 | ||||
| JIS G3103 | JIS G3103 SB410 | JIS G3103 SB450 | JIS G3103 SB480 | JIS G3103 SB450M | |
| JIS G3103 SB480M | |||||
| GB | GB713 | GB713 Q245R | GB713 Q345R | GB713 Q370R | GB713 12Cr1MoVR |
| GB713 12Cr2Mo1R | GB713 13MnNiMoR | GB713 14Cr1MoR | GB713 15CrMoR | ||
| GB713 18MnMoNbR | |||||
| GB3531 | GB3531 09MnNiDR | GB3531 15MnNiDR | GB3531 16MnDR | ||
| DIN | DIN 17155 | DIN 17155 HI | DIN 17155 HII | DIN 17155 10CrMo910 | DIN 17155 13CrMo44 |
| DIN 17155 15Mo3 | DIN 17155 17Mn4 | DIN 17155 19Mn6 | |||





