What is the difference between SA 516 and SA 387?

Mar 31, 2026

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SA 387 alloy steel plate stands out as a premium solution for high-temperature and high-pressure applications.

 

SA 387 alloy steel plate

SA 387 alloy steel plate

 

Compared with conventional carbon steel like SA 516, SA 387 offers superior heat resistance, creep strength, and long-term reliability, making it the preferred choice in refineries, power plants, and petrochemical industries.

 

Chemical Composition Of SA 387 vs SA 516

 

The biggest difference between these two grades lies in alloying elements:

Element SA 516 Gr.70 SA 387 Gr.22 Cl.2
Carbon (C) ≤ 0.27% ≤ 0.15%
Manganese (Mn) 0.85–1.20% 0.40–0.70%
Chromium (Cr) - 2.0–2.5%
Molybdenum (Mo) - 0.9–1.1%

The addition of Chromium (Cr) and Molybdenum (Mo) gives SA 387 excellent oxidation resistance, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature strength, which SA 516 cannot provide.

 

Mechanical Properties of SA 387 vs SA 516

 

 

Property SA 516 Gr.70 SA 387 Gr.22 Cl.2
Tensile Strength 485–620 MPa 515–690 MPa
Yield Strength ≥ 260 MPa ≥ 310 MPa
Creep Resistance Low Excellent
Heat Resistance Moderate Outstanding

While SA 516 performs well under normal conditions, SA 387 maintains strength and stability under extreme heat, making it far more reliable in critical applications.

 

Temperature Range Comparison Of SA 387 vs SA 516

 

Grade Working Temperature
SA 516 -50°C to 300°C
SA 387 400°C to 600°C+

SA 387 is specifically engineered for elevated temperature service, where SA 516 would lose strength and durability over time.

 

Application Differences Of SA 387 vs SA 516

 

SA 516 Applications

Storage tanks

Low/medium temperature pressure vessels

Boilers

 

SA 387 Applications (Recommended Choice)

Petrochemical plants

Oil refining units

Heat exchangers

High-temperature pressure vessels

Hydrogen service equipment

In industries where failure is not an option, SA 387 is the safer and more durable material.

 

Weldability and Fabrication Of SA 387 vs SA 516

 

Aspect SA 516 SA 387
Weldability Easy Moderate (requires control)
Preheating Not always required Required
PWHT Rare Usually required

Although SA 387 requires stricter welding procedures, this ensures long-term structural integrity under extreme conditions.

 

Cost Of SA 387 vs SA 516

SA 516 → Lower cost, suitable for general use

SA 387 → Higher initial cost, but lower maintenance and longer service life

Choosing SA 387 can significantly reduce lifecycle costs in high-temperature environments.]

 

If your project involves high temperature, high pressure, or corrosive environments, SA 387 alloy steel plate is the superior choice. Its enhanced alloy composition ensures better safety, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance costs, making it ideal for critical industrial applications.

 

Looking for a reliable supplier of SA 387 alloy steel plates ? Gnee Steel offers high-quality materials, competitive pricing, and global export support-contact us today for a fast quote!

 

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