ASTM A53 Schedule 40 Pipe

What is ASTM A53 Schedule 40 pipe?

ASTM A53 Schedule 40 Pipe is a type of carbon steel pipe conforming to the ASTM A53 standard, with a specific combination of outer diameter and standard wall thickness (SCH 40). It is widely used in various engineering and construction projects, especially for conveying medium- and low-pressure fluids, gases, and steam. For most non-high-temperature, non-corrosive conventional fluid transport and general structural applications, A53 GR.B ERW SCH 40 is a safe, reliable, and most economical choice.

Standard: 

The full name of the ASTM A53 standard is "Standard for Welded and Seamless Black and Hot-Dip Galvanized Steel Pipes." It specifies the material (chemical composition), mechanical properties (strength), and test methods for steel pipes. 

"Schedule 40" (often abbreviated as SCH 40) represents the standard wall thickness and is the most widely used grade. Its former name was STD.

Material and Grade:
ASTM A53 Schedule 40 steel pipe is primarily made of carbon steel, most commonly A53 Grade B (yield strength ≥ 240 MPa). Grade A (slightly lower strength) is also available.

Manufacturing Process:
ASTM A53 Schedule 40 steel pipe can be seamless or welded pipe.

When purchasing, it's crucial to specify the A53 standard type, which mainly includes three types:
• Type S: ASTM A53 Schedule 40 Seamless pipe, no weld seams, more uniform performance.
• Type E: ASTM A53 Schedule 40 Electric resistance welded pipe (ERW), with longitudinal weld seams, economical and commonly used.
• Type F: ASTM A53 Schedule 40 Furnace welded pipe (usually galvanized).

Size Specifications:
ASTM A53 Schedule 40 carbon steel pipe dimensions follow ASME B36.10 standard. Nominal sizes range from 1/8″ to 24″ and above. For the same size (NPS), the outer diameter is fixed, and Schedule 40 corresponds to a specific wall thickness. Click here to view the SCH 40 carbon steel pipe size table.

Pipe End Types: 

ASTM A53 steel pipes have three types of ends: plain ends, threaded ends, and clamp ends (grooved clamp connections).

Plain ends, due to their welded connection, offer high strength, strong sealing, and permanent connection advantages. They are commonly used in high-pressure, high-temperature, and critical process pipelines, as well as pipelines requiring concealment or insulation. Threaded ends are detachable and flexible to install, commonly used in low-pressure utilities, instrument connections, areas requiring frequent maintenance, and renovation projects. Clamp ends offer the fastest installation speed, easy adjustment, and vibration resistance, making them suitable for fire protection systems, air conditioning water systems, large-diameter low-pressure pipelines, and areas requiring regular maintenance.

Core Advantages: 

ASTM A53 SCH 40 carbon steel pipes offer moderate strength, excellent availability, cost-effectiveness, and wide applicability.

Typical Applications of ASTM A53 SCH 40 Pipes:

1. Building and Municipal Engineering: Hot and cold water supply pipes, drainage pipes, and fire sprinkler system piping within buildings.
2. HVAC: Chilled water, cooling water, and condensate piping.
3. Industrial Utilities: Low-pressure compressed air pipelines, circulating water pipelines, and low-pressure steam pipelines within factories.
4. Structural Applications: Scaffolding, guardrails, and equipment frames (here, mechanical performance is more important than load-bearing capacity).

Key Points for Purchasing and Inquiry:

When you need to purchase or request a quotation, you should provide the most complete information to avoid confusion:

“ASTM A53 Grade B, Schedule 40, Seamless Pipe (Type S)” or “ASTM A53 Grade B, Schedule 40, ERW Pipe (Type E)”

Read more: SCH 40 vs SCH 40S Pipes or Schedule 80 Carbon Steel Pipe