Difference Between A53 Pipe vs A106 Pipe

Scope(1)

ASTM A53 is "Standard Specifications for Black and Heating Galvanized, Welding and Seamless Steel Pipes."

ASTM A106 is a standard specification for seamless carbon steel pipes at high temperatures.

(2) Applied Type of Pipe

A53 can be welded or seamless, depending on the specific purchase method. It is a general steel pipe specification, including galvanized pipes and black pipes.

A106 is a pipeline with similar chemical components, but after high temperature treatment (up to 750 Hualhi). This is a seamless tube.

At least in the United States, the welding is usually A53, and the A106 is seamless. If you ask A53 in the United States, they will report A106 as a substitute.

(3) Chemical Composition

For example when we compare between A106-B and A53-B seamless from chemical composition point of view, we find that :
1. A106-B contains silicon, min. 0.10% where A53-B has zero%, and silicon is the important element for improving the heat resistance criteria.
2. A106-B contains manganese 0.29-1.06%, where A53-B 1.2%.
3. A106-B contains low sulfur and phosphorus, max. 0.035% where A53-B contains 0.05 and 0.045% respectively.

(4) Mechanical Properties

Spec	Mechanical Properties
		Grade A	Grade B	Grade C
ASTM A53	Tenside strength, min, psi (MPa)	48000(330)	60000(415)
	Yield strength, min, psi (MPa)	30000(205)	35000(240)
ASTM A106	Tenside strength, min, psi (MPa)	48000(330)	60000(415)	70000(485)
	Yield strength, min, psi (MPa)	30000(205)	35000(240)	40000(275)

(5) Other difference for A53 Pipe vs A106 Pipe

Because they have different scope and stipulate different types of pipelines, the manufacturing process and the required quality control testing and inspection will be different. If you have a clear opinion, please leave a comment.