Description
ASTM A252 Steel Pipe
ASTM A252 is the standard specification for welded and seamless steel pipe piles used in foundation and structural applications. These cylindrical steel piles are primarily designed for load-bearing purposes, making them an ideal choice for deep foundation systems in bridges, buildings, marine structures, and other civil engineering projects.
The ASTM A252 standard ensures the mechanical strength, chemical composition, dimensional tolerances, and overall performance of steel pipe piles. It applies to both electric-fusion-welded (EFW) and seamless steel pipe piles, manufactured in three grades (Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3), depending on their yield strength and tensile properties.
Key Features
- Material Grades: ASTM A252 defines three grades:
- Grade 1: Minimum Yield Strength – 30,000 psi (207 MPa)
- Grade 2: Minimum Yield Strength – 35,000 psi (241 MPa)
- Grade 3: Minimum Yield Strength – 45,000 psi (310 MPa)
- Manufacturing Process: Can be seamless, welded, or electric-resistance welded, with or without heat treatment.
- Applications: Used as bearing piles, casings for drilled shafts, or foundation piles in construction.
- Surface Finish: Can be supplied in bare, coated, galvanized, or bituminous-coated form.
- End Options: Plain ends, beveled ends, or threaded and coupled based on project requirements.
ASTM A252 Chemical Composition Requirements
While ASTM A252 does not specify stringent chemical limits, it requires the steel to have suitable weldability and strength. The composition typically includes:
| Element | Content Range |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.26% |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 1.60% |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.05% (max) |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.045% (max) |
ASTM A252 Mechanical Properties
| Grade | Yield Strength (min) | Tensile Strength (min) |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | 30,000 psi (207 MPa) | 50,000 psi (345 MPa) |
| Grade 2 | 35,000 psi (241 MPa) | 60,000 psi (414 MPa) |
| Grade 3 | 45,000 psi (310 MPa) | 66,000 psi (455 MPa) |
- Elongation and ductility requirements also apply, ensuring the pipes can withstand dynamic and static loading during pile driving operations.
ASTM A252 Dimensions
ASTM A252 steel pipe piles are manufactured with a nominal wall thickness, and wall tolerances must not exceed ±12.5% of the specified thickness. Lengths can be supplied in:
- Single random length: 16′ – 25′
- Double random length: 35′ – 50′
- Exact or cut lengths: As specified by the client
Outer Diameter Range: 6” to 120” (custom diameters available on request)
Wall Thickness Range: 0.188” to 1.000”+
Applications
- Bridge Foundations: Ideal for driving into soft or unstable soils for bridge piers and abutments.
- Marine and Dock Structures: Used in the construction of jetties, wharves, and offshore platforms.
- High-Rise Buildings: Offers reliable support for deep foundations under skyscrapers and towers.
- Industrial Facilities: Supports heavy equipment, tanks, and industrial platforms.
- Retaining Structures: Used in sheet pile walls and combi-wall systems for earth retention and excavation support.
Advantages
- High Load-Bearing Capacity: Capable of withstanding compressive and lateral loads.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Designed to perform in tough geotechnical conditions.
- Cost-Effective: Easy to install with minimal on-site fabrication.
- Customizable: Can be tailored in terms of length, wall thickness, and end finish.
- Efficient Load Transfer: Transfers load from the structure to deep soil strata or bedrock.
Welding and Fabrication
ASTM A252 pipe piles are highly weldable, allowing for the attachment of pile shoes, end plates, or splicing on site. Common welding methods include:
- Submerged Arc Welding (SAW)
- Electric Resistance Welding (ERW)
- Manual Stick Welding (SMAW)
Weld quality and performance must comply with AWS D1.1 standards or project-specific codes.
Coating and Protection Options
For extended service life, especially in marine or corrosive environments, A252 pipes can be supplied with:
- Coal tar epoxy coating
- Fusion-bonded epoxy (FBE) coating
- Galvanization
- Bituminous coating
- External polyethylene wrap
These coatings protect against rust, abrasion, and chemical exposure during service.
Testing and Inspection
Pipes manufactured under ASTM A252 undergo rigorous non-destructive testing and visual inspection, including:
- Hydrostatic testing
- Ultrasonic testing (UT)
- Magnetic particle testing (MT)
- Dimensional and straightness checks
- Tensile and yield strength testing
Mill test certificates (MTC) and third-party inspection reports are provided to ensure compliance and traceability.
Why Choose Us for ASTM A252 Pipe Piles?
As a trusted supplier and stockist of ASTM A252 steel pipe piles, we offer:
- Ready stock in multiple grades and dimensions
- Custom fabrication and coating options
- Competitive pricing and global delivery
- Experienced technical support and documentation
- Compliance with international quality standards
Whether your project is in the field of infrastructure, marine engineering, or industrial construction, our ASTM A252 pipe piles provide a strong and reliable foundation.
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