1. Q: How is the wall thickness specified and controlled?
A: The wall thickness is specified by the purchaser, and the pipe is manufactured to meet this specified minimum wall thickness. The standard allows for a slight "under-tolerance," meaning the wall can be slightly thinner than nominal in some areas, but it must never fall below the specified minimum.
2. Q: Does ASTM A252 require the pipe to be coated or painted?
A: No. ASTM A252 pipe is typically supplied bare (uncoated). The protective mill varnish or primer sometimes applied is only to prevent superficial rust during storage and transport and offers no long-term corrosion protection. For permanent corrosion protection, additional measures like coatings or cathodic protection are required.
3. Q: What is the difference between ASTM A252 and API 5L pipe?
A: While both are steel pipes, they are designed for different purposes:
ASTM A252 is for structural foundation piling. The focus is on strength and ductility for withstanding driving forces and structural loads.
API 5L is for transporting oil and gas (line pipe). The focus is on containing internal pressure, with stricter requirements on chemistry for weldability and in some cases, toughness for low-temperature service.
4. Q: Can the ends of ASTM A252 pipe be beveled?
A: Yes. Beveled ends are very common and often required for field welding individual pipe sections together to form a continuous pile. The bevel angle is typically specified by the purchaser to match the welding procedure.
5. Q: What information should be included when ordering ASTM A252 pipe?
A: A complete order should specify:
* Standard Number: ASTM A252
* Grade (1, 2, or 3)
* Outside Diameter and Nominal Wall Thickness
* Length (single random, double random, or specific lengths)
* Type (Seamless or Welded)
* End Finish (e.g., square cut, beveled)
* Any additional testing or certification requirements (e.g., Certified Mill Test Report).
