The Importance of ASTM A671 Steel Pipes in Offshore and Subsea Pipeline Projects

In offshore and subsea engineering, the reliability and corrosion resistance of pipelines directly affect project safety and service life. Under extreme conditions such as high salinity, high pressure, and strong corrosive environments, ASTM A671 steel pipe demonstrates excellent mechanical performance, chemical stability, and consistent weld quality. This article provides an in-depth analysis of ASTM A671 pipes’ mechanical properties, chemical composition, testing standards, and application advantages, while showcasing LONGMA’s production and inspection capabilities.

ASTM A671 Standard and Marine Engineering Suitability

ASTM A671 is an Electric-Fusion-Welded (EFW) steel pipe standard developed by ASTM International, primarily used for pressure and high-temperature service. The pipes are available in different grades: CC60, CC65, and CC70.

 
Grade Tensile Strength (MPa) Yield Strength (MPa) Typical Applications
ASTM A671 CC60 415–550 240–310 Medium- and low-pressure subsea pipelines
ASTM A671 CC65 450–585 275–355 Mid-depth offshore oil & gas systems
ASTM A671 CC70 485–620 310–415 Offshore platform high-pressure main lines

Summary:

  • CC60 is suitable for systems with high workability requirements.
  • CC65 balances strength and toughness, making it the most commonly used grade.
  • CC70 provides maximum strength for high-pressure and high-temperature marine conditions.

Mechanical Properties and Chemical Composition

  • Mechanical Properties Comparison
 
Property Test Standard CC60 CC65 CC70
Tensile Strength (MPa) ASTM A370 415–550 450–585 485–620
Yield Strength (MPa) ASTM A370 ≥240 ≥275 ≥310
Elongation (%) ASTM A370 ≥20 ≥18 ≥18
Impact Energy (J) ASTM E23 ≥27 ≥27 ≥30

Conclusion:
ASTM A671 pipes exhibit excellent tensile strength, yield strength, and low-temperature toughness, ensuring structural stability under deep-sea high-pressure conditions.

  • Chemical Composition Table
 
Element Range (%) Function
Carbon (C) 0.24–0.30 Increases strength and hardness
Manganese (Mn) 0.70–1.35 Enhances toughness and impact resistance
Silicon (Si) 0.15–0.50 Improves oxidation and corrosion resistance
Phosphorus (P) ≤0.035 Reduces brittleness
Sulfur (S) ≤0.035 Minimizes cracking and lamination defects

Typical Grades:
ASTM A671 CC60 Class 22 and ASTM A671 CC65 CL22 are strictly controlled for chemical composition, ideal for subsea pipelines and high-humidity environments.

Comparison: ASTM A671 vs A672 and A691

 
Feature ASTM A671 ASTM A672 ASTM A691
Manufacturing Process EFW EFW EFW
Material Type Carbon / Low Alloy Steel Pressure Vessel Steel Cr-Mo Alloy Steel
Suitable Environment Medium- to high-pressure, corrosion-resistant High-pressure steam systems Ultra-high temperature & pressure
Common Grades CC60 / CC65 / CC70 CL20 / CL22 / CL25 1¼Cr-½Mo / 2¼Cr-1Mo
Cost Level ★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★★

Analysis:
Considering strength, cost, and corrosion resistance, ASTM A671 pipe offers the best value for offshore engineering applications.

Testing and Quality Control

LONGMA applies comprehensive testing to every ASTM A671 steel pipe to ensure compliance with ASTM standards and client requirements.

 
Test Standard Content Purpose
Chemical Analysis ASTM E415 Elemental composition Verify raw material quality
Tensile Test ASTM E8/E8M Tensile and yield strength Ensure mechanical performance
Impact Test ASTM E23 Charpy V-notch impact energy Confirm low-temperature toughness
NDT (UT/RT) ASTM E213 / E309 Weld defect detection Ensure weld integrity
Hydrostatic Test ASTM A530 High-pressure sealing Check leakage and pressure resistance

In-house Laboratory:
LONGMA can issue full Material Test Certificates (MTCs) and third-party inspection reports, providing traceable quality assurance.

Typical Offshore Applications

 
Application Typical Use Advantages
Subsea Pipeline Systems Natural gas & oil transport High pressure and corrosion resistance
Offshore Riser Vertical lift pipes Impact and fatigue resistance
Thermal & Condensate Systems Heat exchange loops Stable heat transfer
Chemical & Desalination Units Corrosive fluid transport High purity and long service life

Summary:
ASTM A671 CC60 and CC65 pipes maintain stable operation under complex marine conditions, reducing maintenance frequency and total lifecycle costs.

LONGMA Brand Advantages

  • Over 20 years of ASTM-standard pipe manufacturing experience
  • High-precision EFW welding processensuring dense, uniform welds
  • Full range coverage CC60–CC70, supporting custom wall thickness and lengths
  • Certified to DNV, ABS, ISO9001, ready for global offshore projects
  • Provides MTC + third-party inspection reports, guaranteeing traceable quality

Conclusion: A Reliable Choice for Offshore Challenges

Materials and manufacturing quality determine the success of offshore and subsea projects.
ASTM A671 steel pipe is an ideal solution for harsh marine environments due to its excellent mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and welding stability.

LONGMA delivers high-quality ASTM A671 pipe, ensuring project safety, reliability, and long-term performance for global clients.

 

 

 

Categories

Get Free Quote

Related Article​

Wechat ID: 008618661500134

Request Free Quote