Article #6
A106 Grade C Pipe
copyright 2003 REDOX
The ability of A106 Grade C to operate at greater pressure also allows
for greater flow, lowered operating temperature and a reduction in installation
costs.
GREATER PRESSURE capability is partly due the higher yield and tensile
strengths found in Grade C. Article 4 gives the formula for calculating
these pressures. Generally you can figure a 14% increase in safe working
pressure with Grade C vs. Grade B. The Tech Sheet (Proper Pipe Sizing)
gives exact pressures for both Grades B and C.
GREATER FLOW is made possible by not having to always go to the next
heavier schedule of pipe for pressure that is beyond what Grade B is rated
for.
LOWERED OPERATING TEMPERATURES are possible because the feet per second
flow characteristics using a lighter schedule of pipe will generate less
heat.
INSTALLATION COSTS that cover materials and labor will be significantly
reduced when using A106 Grade C.
MATERIAL COSTS such as pipe and fitting will be reduced by not having
to go the next larger size and schedule to accommodate for higher pressure
or to compensate for the 8% down rating that must be done if you are bending
the pipe.
LABOR COSTS will be reduced due to the ease of handling lighter pipe.
Example: To achieve comparable flow and pressure characteristics as 1.5"
SCH 80 A106 Grade C (75# total weight) would require a 2" SCH 160
A106 B (150# total weight). Additionally, there will be significant labor
savings in welding the smaller pipe.
The unique chemical requirements (ASTM A106 Table 1) that the mill introduces
during the melt is what makes Grade C have its higher tensile and yield.
While many Grade B pipes appear to be Grade C equivalent, most are not.
This is do to their chemical properties not conforming to Grade C. For
that reason it is best to ask for the Material Test Report from the mill
with the Grade C certification affixed for your assurance of getting A106
Grade C material.
REDOX, Inc.
7800 7th Ave. S
Seattle, WA 98108 USA
(800) 421-3369
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