Material Selection in Apparatus and Vessel Construction

In apparatus and vessel construction, material selection determines safety, service life and cost. Medium, temperature, pressure and corrosion load set the framework. We show the most important material groups and when they are used.

Pressure vessel steels (P grades)

Pressure vessels and boilers call for creep-resistant and pressure-resistant steels to EN 10028. P235GH (1.0345) and P265GH (1.0425) are suitable for moderate temperatures; creep-resistant grades such as 16Mo3 (1.5415), 13CrMo4-5 (1.7335) and 10CrMo9-10 (1.7380) withstand steam, pressure and high temperatures.

Stainless steel for corrosive media

If the medium comes into contact with moisture or chemicals, the route leads to stainless steel. 1.4301 is the all-rounder; 1.4404 and 1.4571 with molybdenum are more resistant to chlorides and are widely used in the chemical and food industries. For aggressive media, duplex and nickel-base alloys follow.

Plates, heads and accessories

An apparatus consists of more than just plate: torispherical and semi-elliptical heads, nozzles, flanges and reinforcements are part of it. We supply the matching plates (including heavy quarto plate), formed parts and flanges from a single source and coordinate the materials with one another.

Conformity and documentation

Pressure equipment is subject to the Pressure Equipment Directive. We handle the regulated manufacture of pressure vessels through certified partner companies, which are also responsible for conformity. We supply materials with inspection certificate 3.1 to EN 10204 and full traceability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which steel is used for pressure vessels?

Pressure vessel steels to EN 10028, e.g. P235GH (1.0345) and P265GH (1.0425) for moderate temperatures, as well as creep-resistant grades such as 16Mo3, 13CrMo4-5 and 10CrMo9-10 for steam and high temperatures.

When do you need stainless steel in apparatus construction?

As soon as the medium comes into contact with moisture or chemicals. 1.4301 is standard; 1.4404 and 1.4571 are more resistant to chlorides. For aggressive media, duplex and nickel-base alloys follow.

Who is responsible for pressure equipment conformity?

The regulated manufacture of pressure vessels is carried out by certified partner companies, which are also responsible for conformity with the Pressure Equipment Directive. Steel Line supplies the material, machining and orchestration.