This specification covers five grades of electric-fusion(arc)-welded straight-seam or helical steel pipe including pipe of NPS 4 and over. The required chemical composition, tensile requirements of the steel, and the tensile requirements of the production welds are presented. Heat analysis of each heat of steel was made to determine the percentage of the elements as per chemical requirements. Tests to be performed shall include one longitudinal tension test for the steel, one reduced-section production weld test for the pipe, and hydrostatic test for each length of the pipe.

1.1 This specification covers five grades of electric-fusion (arc)-welded straight-seam or helical-seam steel pipe. Pipe of NPS 4 (Note 1) and larger with nominal (average) wall thickness of 1.0 in. [25.4 mm] and less are covered. Listing of standardized dimensions are for reference (Note 2). The grades of steel are pipe mill grades having mechanical properties which differ from standard plate grades. The pipe is intended for conveying liquid, gas, or vapor.

Note 1: The dimensionless designator NPS (nominal pipe size) has been substituted in this standard for such traditional terms as “nominal diameter,” “size,” and “nominal size.”

Note 2: A comprehensive listing of standardized pipe dimensions is contained in ASME B36.10M.

Note 3: The suitability of pipe for various purposes is somewhat dependent on its dimensions, properties, and conditions of service. For example, for high-temperature service see applicable codes and Specification A691.

1.2 This specification is expressed in both inch-pound units and in SI units; however, unless the purchase order or contract specifies the applicable M specification designation (SI units), the inch-pound units shall apply. The values stated in either inch-pound units or SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.

1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.