Project Case Study: Application of ASTM A672 Pipes in LNG and Refinery Facilities

Introduction: The Trusted Solution forHigh-Pressure Environments

With the global expansion of energy infrastructure, LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) terminals and refinery plants demand pipeline systems that can withstand high pressure, elevated temperatures, and corrosive media. These environments place extreme requirements on material integrity, welding quality, and inspection standards.

Among various steel pipe materials, ASTM A672 pipe has become a preferred choice due to its excellent mechanical strength, weldability, and pressure-grade versatility. With over 20 years of experience, LONGMA Steel Pipe Factory has provided advanced Electric Fusion Welded (EFW) solutions for multiple LNG and refinery projects worldwide.

Overview of ASTM A672 Standard

The ASTM A672 specification covers electric-fusion-welded (EFW) steel pipes fabricated from pressure vessel-quality carbon steel plates. These pipes are primarily used for high-pressure and high-temperature service applications, including steam, gas, and liquid transmission systems.

The table below highlights key material grades and their characteristics:

 
Material Grade Heat Treatment Class Yield Strength (MPa) Typical Applications
ASTM A672 C60 CL22 Normalized ≥240 Steam condensing systems, heating pipelines
ASTM A672 C65 CL22 Normalized + Stress Relieved ≥260 LNG pipelines, condensate loops
ASTM A672 C70 CL32 Fully Annealed ≥290 Refinery systems, boiler feed lines

Each grade is designed to perform under specific conditions — ASTM A672 C65 CL22, for example, offers superior performance in cyclic temperature and pressure environments common in LNG applications.

Real Project Applications

Case 1: Middle East LNG Terminal Project

  • Product Used: ASTM A672 C65 CL22 EFW Pipe (DN600–DN1200)
  • Application: High-pressure steam return system in LNG vaporization zone
  • Operating Conditions: 450°C temperature, 10MPa pressure
  • Client Requirements: 100% radiographic testing, anti-brittle fracture performance

LONGMA Solution:
LONGMA supplied ASTM A672 C65 CL22 pipes manufactured using automated EFW technology to ensure dense and uniform welds. Non-destructive testing followed ASTM E213 (UT) and ASTM E94 (RT) standards to verify internal and weld integrity.

Results:

  • 100% compliance with ASTM A672 specificationverified by BV inspection;
  • Zero leakage or fatigue cracking after two years of continuous operation;
  • The client extended additional orders for phase II expansion pipelines.

Case 2: Southeast Asia Refinery Expansion Project

  • Product Used: ASTM A672 C60 CL22, ASTM A672 C70
  • Application: Crude oil heating and high-pressure steam distribution
  • Operating Conditions: 380–420°C, 8MPa
  • Key Requirements: Long-term high-temperature resistance and sulfur corrosion prevention

LONGMA’s Technical Approach:
To meet extreme refinery conditions, ASTM A672 C70 pipes were selected and underwent Post Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT) to relieve residual stress and prevent delayed cracking.

 
Inspection Method Standard Reference Purpose Stage
Ultrasonic Testing (UT) ASTM E213 Detect internal flaws Post-weld
Radiographic Testing (RT) ASTM E94 Validate weld soundness Sampling
Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) ASTM E709 Detect surface cracks Post-machining
Hydrostatic Test ASTM A672 §22 Verify pressure integrity Before delivery

Results:
All pipes passed client-side inspection and ASME verification, demonstrating stable long-term performance and superior pressure resistance.

LONGMA’s In-House Laboratory: The Foundation of Quality Assurance

Unlike trading companies, LONGMA owns a full-scale in-house laboratory equipped with non-destructive testing systems and metallographic analyzers. Every ASTM A672 pipe undergoes strict inspection before shipment, including:

  • Chemical Composition Analysis
    • Ensures compliance with ASTM A672 chemical limitsfor elements such as C, Mn, P, and S.
  • Mechanical Testing
    • Covers yield strength, tensile strength, and elongation
  • Metallographic Examination
    • Analyzes microstructure to ensure no abnormalities in the heat-affected zone (HAZ).
  • Hydrostatic and Air Tightness Testing
    • Simulates operating pressure to confirm leak-free performance.

This comprehensive quality system enhances customer confidence and establishes LONGMA as a leading China ASTM A672 exporter with a proven global record.

Why LNG and Refinery Clients Choose LONGMA

 
Client Concern LONGMA Solution Outcome
Material reliability High-grade ASTM A672 C65 CL22 / C70 pipes Improved strength and pressure resistance
Procurement risk BV / SGS / TUV third-party certification Enhanced trust and transparency
Delivery schedule Fully controlled in-house production Guaranteed on-time delivery
Customization Multi-size and heavy-wall options Meets diverse engineering demands

LONGMA is not only an ASTM A672 exporter but also a strategic partner for global energy infrastructure projects.

Conclusion: Quality That Powers Global Energy Projects

The successful application of ASTM A672 pipes in LNG and refinery facilities demonstrates their outstanding performance under high temperature, pressure, and corrosion. Backed by more than 20 years of manufacturing experience and comprehensive testing capabilities, LONGMA Steel Pipe Factory stands out as a trusted ASTM A672 c65 cl22 supplier for energy projects worldwide.

If you are looking for a reliable ASTM A672 pipe manufacturer with global certifications and strict quality control, LONGMA is your ideal choice to ensure long-term operational safety and efficiency.

 

 

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