What is SA285 Gr A vs Gr B vs Gr C Equivalent Materials

Low‑carbon, pressure‑vessel steel offered in three ASME A285 grades (A, B and C). These grades are specified for low- to medium‑pressure vessels, tanks and boilers where good weldability and straightforward fabrication are required.

• Key characteristics

  • Low carbon content for easy welding and fabrication.
  • Grade differentiation is primarily by minimum yield and tensile strength to match required service pressure.

• SA285 Grade A (low strength)

  • Typical strengths: tensile ~45–65 ksi (310–450 MPa), yield ~24 ksi (~165 MPa).
  • Typical use: very low‑pressure vessels, tanks and simple welded fabrications.
  • Common international equivalents: EN (P235GH), JIS (SPV235), GB (Q245R), IS (R220), BS/DIN/KS/AFNOR variants with similar low‑carbon chemistry and yield values.

• SA285 Grade B (medium strength)

  • Typical strengths: tensile ~50–70 ksi (345–485 MPa), yield ~27 ksi (~185 MPa).
  • Typical use: medium‑pressure vessels and boilers needing higher strength than Grade A.
  • Common international equivalents: EN (P265GH), JIS (SPV315), GB (Q275R), IS (R260) and corresponding regional boiler/pressure‑vessel steels.

• SA285 Grade C (highest of the three)

  • Typical strengths: tensile ~55–75 ksi (380–515 MPa), yield ~30 ksi (~205 MPa).
  • Typical use: medium‑pressure vessels where slightly higher strength is required while retaining weldability.
  • Common international equivalents: EN (P235GH/P265GH variants), JIS (SPV grades), GB (Q245R/Q275R) and other regional boiler steels with comparable properties.

Selecting the correct grade

• Choose Grade A for very low‑pressure, non‑critical tanks and vessels where maximum ductility and weldability are priorities.
• Choose Grade B or C when design pressure or structural requirements demand higher yield/tensile strength.
• Confirm equivalence when substituting across regional standards—check chemical composition, minimum mechanical properties and applicable heat‑treatment or post‑weld requirements.

Typical applications

• Low‑ and medium‑pressure storage tanks, small boilers, pressure vessels, welded fabrications and structural parts where ASME A285 acceptance is required.

Notes

• This summary compares typical mechanical ranges and commonly referenced international equivalents. For specification, procurement or engineering acceptance, review full standard texts and mill certificates and involve a qualified materials or design engineer to confirm suitability for your service conditions.