A517 Grade E is a high-strength chromium molybdenum alloy steel plate supplied in the quenched and tempered condition under ASTM A517/A517M, intended for welded pressure vessels, boilers and heavy fabricated pressure equipment. The grade carries a minimum yield strength of 690 MPa and a tensile range of 795–930 MPa in thicknesses up to 65 mm, which allows designers to reduce wall thickness and total weight compared with carbon and low alloy vessel steels. Its 1.40–2.00% chromium content gives deeper hardenability than Grade B, so the strength and toughness remain uniform through heavy plate sections up to 150 mm.

Chemical Composition (ASTM A517/A517M, heat analysis)

Carbon: 0.12–0.20% Manganese: 0.40–0.70% Silicon: 0.10–0.40% Chromium: 1.40–2.00% Molybdenum: 0.40–0.60% Titanium: 0.01–0.10% Boron: 0.001–0.005% Phosphorus: ≤ 0.025% Sulfur: ≤ 0.025%

The steel is killed and fine austenitic grain treated. The high chromium plus molybdenum combination provides the hardenability needed for thick sections, while boron and titanium refine the response to quenching. Phosphorus and sulfur are held to 0.025% maximum, tighter than the limits used for standard vessel carbon steels.

Mechanical Properties

For thickness up to 65 mm: yield strength ≥ 690 MPa, tensile strength 795–930 MPa, elongation ≥ 16% in 50 mm. For thickness over 65 mm to 150 mm: yield strength ≥ 620 MPa, tensile strength 725–930 MPa, elongation ≥ 14%. Reduction of area is ≥ 35% on rectangular specimens and ≥ 45% on round specimens. Quenching and tempering is mandatory, and Charpy V-notch impact testing is required by the specification.

Size Range

Thickness: 8–150 mm Width: 1220–4200 mm Length: 5000–18000 mm

The 150 mm maximum follows the thickness limit of Grade E in ASTM A517. Heavier sections require a different grade of the same specification.

Stock & Processing Services

Cutting • Beveling • Drilling • Welding preparation • Heat treatment • Ultrasonic testing • Custom fabrication for pressure vessels

Applications

• Heavy wall pressure vessels and boiler drums

• Large welded pressure equipment

• Hydropower and nuclear power support structures

• Mining and heavy machinery frames

• High-strength structural components with weight limits

• Storage tanks and penstock components