API 5L X46 (L320) is a high strength carbon steel grade under the API 5L standard, designed for oil and gas transmission pipelines. Its excellent mechanical properties enable it to perform well in harsh environments.
peculiarity
The API 5L X46 (L320) has a minimum yield strength of 320 MPa and a tensile strength range of 435 to 655 MPa, providing higher strength compared to lower grades. It exhibits excellent toughness and crack resistance, and can withstand higher internal pressure and external stress. The steel has good weldability, suitable for a variety of welding processes, and has a certain corrosion resistance, making it stable in complex environments in piping systems.
dimension
The size range of API 5L X46 (L320) varies depending on the production process. The outer diameter of seamless steel pipe is usually 1/2 inch (13.7 mm) to 26 inch (660.4 mm), and the wall thickness is from 2.77 mm to 25.4 mm. Welded steel pipes, such as LSAW or ERW, have an outer diameter of up to 100 inches (2540 mm), and wall thickness can be customized according to engineering requirements. These dimensions make it suitable for a variety of scenarios in small and medium feeder pipelines and large diameter mains.
Chemical composition
The chemical composition of API 5L X46 (L320) meets API 5L standards and mainly includes carbon (C) ≤0.26%, manganese (Mn) ≤1.40%, phosphorus (P) ≤0.030%, sulfur (S) ≤0.030% and silicon (Si) ≤0.45%. The manganese content is slightly higher to improve strength, and the low carbon design maintains good weldability. Trace elements such as niobium (Nb), vanadium (V) or titanium (Ti) may be added to refine grain structure and enhance mechanical properties. The low phosphorus and sulfur content ensures the toughness and purity of the steel.
Scope of application
API 5L X46 (L320) is widely used in pipeline systems in the oil and gas industry, especially in medium and high pressure transmission scenarios, such as long distance oil pipelines, natural gas pipelines and offshore oil and gas platform pipelines. Its high strength characteristics give it an advantage in projects that require greater carrying capacity. In addition, it is also used in process pipelines and key components in energy infrastructure in petrochemical plants, where it is favored for its reliability and economy.
