Introduction
ASTM A252 is the basic specification for both seamless and welded steel pipe piles. In general, the round pipes varieties are utilized in piling jobs and have a stable position of bulk carrying and pressure bearing.
The standard of ASTM A252 provides the value and quantity sections in inch-pound. This, in turn, contributes to the data and information on A252 pipe to engineers and designers that help in determining the strength basis of layouts and constructions.
The pipes are produced in three grades, among which the employment of ASTM A252 Grade 3 type is specifically notable.
Product Description
The A252 Grade 3 pipe piles can possess several pipe ends for distinct functional motives. The ends can either be beveled or plain.
Various kinds of coats are accessible for the ASTM A252 Grade 3. They include 3PE, FBE, as well as galvanized coverings. The substance of the product is hard, sturdy, and durable, with excellent corrosion resistance.
Due to its impressive strength and sturdiness, ASTM A252 Grade 3 pipes are used in transportation lines.
This category of pipe piles comes in two classes, 1 and 2, with identical material specifications. Each pipe of this grade comes below forty-eight inches of external diameter.
Chemical Composition
The criterion for ASTM A252 Grade 3 pipe piles has a threshold for the element phosphorus (P) of 0.050% (maximum).
This is because the content of P in the pipes can make it weak, which will hinder its welding functions.
The standard and specifications for ASTM A252 just interpret the quantity of phosphorus in it. All the other elements and components are in agreement with the general carbon steel substance.
| Pipe Type/Grade | Name of Element | Content of Element |
| ASTM A252 Grade 3 (Seamless and Welded) | Phosphorus (P) | 0.050 % (Maximum) |
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties of ASTM A252 Grade 3 pipe piles are based on the tensile strength and yield strength of the material.
In the following charts, the mechanical characteristics of ASTM A252 Grade 3 pipes are summarized.
Mechanical Properties of ASTM A252 Grade 3 (Based on Tensile Strength)
| Mechanical Characteristics | Grade 1 Pipe | Grade 2 Pipe | Grade 3 Pipe |
| Tensile Strength (Minimum) (psi, Mpa) | 50,000 psi 345 Mpa | 60,000 psi 415 Mpa | 66,000 psi 455 Mpa |
Mechanical Properties of ASTM A252 Grade 3 (Based on Tensile Strength)
| Mechanical Characteristics | Grade 1 Pipe | Grade 2 Pipe | Grade 3 Pipe |
| Yield Strength or Yield Point (Minimum) (psi, Mpa) | 30,000 psi 205 Mpa | 35,000 psi240 Mpa | 45,000 psi310 Mpa |
Mechanical Properties of ASTM A252 Grade 3 (Based on Elongation)
| Mechanical Characteristics | Grade 1 Pipe | Grade 2 Pipe | Grade 3 Pipe |
| Elongation for 2 inches or 50.8 millimeters (Minimum, %) | 30 | 25 | 20 |
| Elongation for 8 inches or 203.2 millimeters (Minimum, %) | 18 | 14 | - |
Types of ASTM A252 Grade 3 Pipe Pile
Considering the components of yield strength or yield point and tensile strength, the ASTM A252 standard has been cataloged into three levels. They are:
- ASTM A252 Grade 1
- ASTM A252 Grade 2
- ASTM A252 Grade 3
These grades are further classified into different types of groups. The ASTM A252 Grade 3 pipe piles are primarily of two varieties.
i) ASTM A252 Grade 3 Seamless Pipes
The group of seamless pipe piles is referred to as thermal expanded and cold drawn or hot rolled seamless pipe.
ii) ASTM A252 Grade 3 Welded Pipes
The category of welded pipes includes a few different kinds of materials. They are:
- Fusion welded or sub-merged welded pipes
- Helical spiral or longitudinal welded pipes
- Flash welded pipes
Note: For the raw substance-producing process of steel and iron, the methods of electric furnace, basic oxygen, and open hearth are used.
Testing Requirements
The testing requisites for ASTM A252 Grade, 3 pipe piles, are based on the factors of material analysis, weight tolerances, and dimensions estimates. The basic test methods are:
i) Based on Analysis of Material
Depending on the material or substance inspection, the tests of heat analysis, product research, and tensile inspection are done.
ii) Based on Dimension and Weight Estimation
For dimension and weight analyses, the following factors are taken into consideration:
- Weight of the pipe pile (per unit)
- Tolerance Estimation
- Fixed Length
Note: The reason the testing requirements of ASTM A252 Grade 3 pipe piles are considered to be different is because normal testing, like hydrostatic test, is not specified.
Use and Application
The use and application of ASTM A252 Grade 3 pipe piles are vast and varied. These grades of pipes retain the technique to preserve highly qualified substances. The excellent quality of the material ensures that consumers and users can be guaranteed proper service as well as profits.
The kind of ASTM A252 pipes that possess a cylindrical shape are ideal for load bearing.
Due to this reason, such pipes are widely used in works related to building construction, wall layout, and establishment of stable structures that need a sturdy base.
With both global quality requirements and durable material quality, the use of ASTM A252 grade 3 pipes is in high demand.
The industries and businesses that deal with the application of ASTM A252 Grade 3 pipes are oil and petroleum companies, boiler pipe manufacturers, and fluid pipes and tube production plants.
Conclusion
The American Standard ASTM A252 is a criterion for pipe piling materials, which is largely employed in building construction and establishments.
The A252 specification comprises three standard grades - Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3.
Among these three, the materials of ASTM A252 Grade 3 pipe piles are the most popular choice among users and customers. Based on specific needs and requirements, the ASTM A252 Grade 3 pipes in both welded and seamless varieties are manufactured and delivered all across the world.