API 5L is the international standard for seamless and welded steel pipes used in oil and gas pipelines. It specifies two product specification levels: PSL1 (standard quality) and PSL2 (higher quality with stricter testing). The most common grades range from L245/B to L485/X70. These pipes are essential for transporting petroleum, natural gas, and water in the energy industry.
Chemical Composition (Max %) for PSL2
Typical maximum chemical composition (% by mass) per API 5L PSL2.
| Grade | C (%) | Mn (%) | P (%) | S (%) | Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L245 / B | ≤0.26 | ≤1.20 | ≤0.030 | ≤0.030 | Low Carbon |
| L290 / X42 | ≤0.26 | ≤1.30 | ≤0.030 | ≤0.030 | Micro-alloyed |
| L360 / X52 | ≤0.26 | ≤1.40 | ≤0.030 | ≤0.030 | Micro-alloyed |
| L415 / X60 | ≤0.22 | ≤1.45 | ≤0.025 | ≤0.015 | HSLA |
| L450 / X65 | ≤0.22 | ≤1.60 | ≤0.025 | ≤0.015 | HSLA |
| L485 / X70 | ≤0.22 | ≤1.65 | ≤0.025 | ≤0.015 | HSLA |
Note: PSL2 requires stricter chemical limits, mandatory impact testing, and NDT (Non-Destructive Testing). Micro-alloying elements like Nb, V, and Ti are often added to higher grades (X60 and above) to achieve the required strength and toughness.
Mechanical Properties (PSL2)
| Grade | Yield Strength (MPa) | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Elongation (%) | Impact Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L245 / B | 245–450 | 415–760 | ≥21 | Required |
| L290 / X42 | 290–495 | 415–760 | ≥21 | Required |
| L360 / X52 | 360–530 | 460–760 | ≥21 | Required |
| L415 / X60 | 415–565 | 520–760 | ≥21 | Required |
| L450 / X65 | 450–600 | 535–760 | ≥21 | Required |
| L485 / X70 | 485–635 | 570–760 | ≥21 | Required |
Available Sizes & Delivery
| Outer Diameter (OD) | 21.3–1420 mm |
| Wall Thickness (WT) | 2.0–50 mm |
| Length | Up to 12m (random or fixed length) |
| Pipe Types | Seamless (SMLS), ERW, LSAW, SSAW |
| Standard | API 5L (PSL1 / PSL2) / ISO 3183 |
| Mill Test Certificate | EN 10204 3.1 with every shipment |
| MOQ | 10 Tons |
| Delivery Time | Within 15-25 days (≤1000 tons) |
Why Order from Zhongtang Steel?
- Full API 5L Range — PSL1 and PSL2 from L245/B to L485/X70
- Strict Quality Control — Hydrostatic testing, NDT, and impact testing
- EN 10204 3.1 MTC supplied with every shipment
- ISO 9001 certified manufacturer since 1998
- Mill-direct pricing — no trading company markup
Applications
- Oil and gas transmission pipelines
- Water supply and sewage systems
- Petrochemical and refinery piping
- Offshore and onshore drilling operations
- High-pressure boiler and heat exchanger tubes
- Structural and piling applications

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