Electric-Fusion-Welded Steel Pipe for High-Pressure Service at Moderate Temperatures

A672/A672M-14: Standard Specification for Electric-Fusion-Welded Steel Pipe for High-Pressure Service at Moderate Temperatures

For engineers and designers working with critical fluid transport systems, understanding the foundational standards for material selection is paramount. ASTM A672/A672M-14 provides an essential framework for specifying and procuring electric-fusion-welded steel pipe designed for demanding high-pressure applications at moderate temperatures. This industry-leading specification ensures the reliability and safety of critical infrastructure.

What is A672/A672M-14?

ASTM A672/A672M-14 is an authoritative standard that defines the requirements for electric-fusion-welded steel pipe manufactured using pressure-vessel quality plate. Its primary purpose is to provide a comprehensive set of guidelines for pipe suitable for high-pressure service environments operating at moderate temperatures, with provisions for various heat treatments and testing methods.

Scope & Purpose

This standard governs the fabrication of electric-fusion-welded steel pipe with filler metal, suitable for high-pressure and moderate-temperature service. It specifies requirements for pipe typically 16 inches [400 mm] in outside diameter or larger, with wall thicknesses up to 3 inches [75 mm]. The specification details different grades based on the plate material and classes that define the heat treatment, radiography, and pressure testing performed. It does not cover materials for extremely high temperatures or specialized low-temperature applications beyond moderate ranges.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Materials Engineers, Metallurgists, Welding Engineers, Quality Control Inspectors, Project Engineers, and Procurement Specialists.
• • Industries affected: Petrochemical, Power Generation, Industrial Manufacturing, and Construction.
• • Compliance nature: Typically voluntary, but often becomes mandatory when referenced in project specifications, contracts, or regulatory codes (e.g., ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code).
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically verified by project owner representatives, third-party inspectors, or regulatory bodies through material certifications, testing, and audits.

Key Requirements Overview

The standard requires that the electric-fusion welding process be performed according to qualified procedures and by certified personnel, aligning with ASME Section IX. Professionals must ensure that the base steel plate material conforms to the specified ASTM plate standards relevant to the chosen pipe grade. Key provisions include defining various classes of pipe based on heat treatment (e.g., stress relieved, normalized, quenched and tempered) and specifying requirements for radiographic examination and hydrostatic testing to ensure weld integrity. The specification also outlines acceptable weld reinforcement limits, which can be adjusted based on contractual agreements or ASME code requirements.

Related Standards & References

A672/A672M-14 integrates seamlessly with other proven ASTM standards. Specification A20/A20M provides general requirements for pressure vessel plates, which are the foundational material for this pipe. Specification A530/A530M offers general requirements for specialized carbon and alloy steel pipe, often referenced for additional pipe-specific considerations. Furthermore, the standard frequently references the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, particularly Section IX for welding qualifications and Section VIII for pressure vessel design and fabrication requirements, ensuring a holistic approach