ASTM A1016/A1016M-23

Standard Specification for General Requirements for Ferritic Alloy Steel, Austenitic Alloy Steel, and Stainless Steel Tubes

ABSTRACT
This specification covers general requirements for ferritic alloy steel, austenitic alloy steel, and stainless steel tubes. The steel shall made by any process. The material shall conform to the tensile property requirements prescribed in the individual product specification. Yield strength tests and elongation tests shall be made to conform to the requirements. Flattening test, reverse flattening test, reverse bend test, flaring test, flange test, hardness test, ultrasonic test, eddy current test, flux leakage test, and hydrostatic test shall be made to conform to the requirements specified.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers a group of requirements that, unless otherwise specified in an individual specification, shall apply to the ASTM product specifications noted below.    
Title of Specification  
ASTM
DesignationA  
Seamless Carbon-Molybdenum Alloy-Steel Boiler and
Superheater Tubes  
A209/A209M  
Seamless Ferritic and Austenitic Alloy-Steel Boiler, Superheater,
and Heat-Exchanger Tubes  
A213/A213M  
Welded Austenitic Steel Boiler, Superheater, Heat-Exchanger,
and Condenser Tubes  
A249/A249M  
Electric-Resistance-Welded Ferritic Alloy-Steel Boiler and
Superheater Tubes  
A250/A250M  
Seamless and Welded Ferritic and Martensitic Stainless Steel
Tubing for General Service  
A268/A268M  
Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for
General Service  
A269/A269M  
Seamless and Welded Austenitic and Ferritic/Austenitic
Stainless Steel Sanitary Tubing  
A270/A270M  
Seamless and Welded Carbon and Alloy-Steel Tubes for
Low-Temperature Service  
A334/A334M  
Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Feedwater Heater Tubes  
A688/A688M  
Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for Breeder Reactor Core
Components  
A771/A771M  
Seamless and Welded Ferritic/Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing
for General Service  
A789/A789M  
Seamless and Welded Ferritic Stainless Steel Feedwater Heater
Tubes  
A803/A803M  
Seamless Austenitic and Martensitic Stainless Steel Duct
Tubes for Liquid Metal-Cooled Reactor Core Components  
A826/A826M  
High-Frequency Induction Welded, Unannealed, Austenitic
Steel Condenser Tubes  
A851  
Welded Austenitic Alloy Steel Boiler, Superheater, Condenser,
and Heat Exchanger Tubes with Textured Surface(s)  
A1098/A1098M  
1.2 In the case of conflict between a requirement of a product specification and a requirement of this general requirements specification, the product specification shall prevail. In the case of conflict between a requirement of the product specification or a requirement of this general requirements specification and a more stringent requirement of the purchase order, the purchase order shall prevail.  
1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. The inch-pound units shall apply unless the “M” designation (SI) of the product specification is specified in the order.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Oct-2023
• ICS: 77.140.20 - Stainless steels
• Technical Committee: A01 - Steel, Stainless Steel and Related Alloys
• Drafting Committee: A01.10 - Stainless and Alloy Steel Tubular Products

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM A1016/A1016M-18a - Standard Specification for General Requirements for Ferritic Alloy Steel, Austenitic Alloy Steel, and Stainless Steel Tubes
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM A270/A270M-24 - Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Austenitic and Ferritic/Austenitic Stainless Steel Sanitary Tubing
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A249/A249M-24 - Standard Specification for Welded Austenitic Steel Boiler, Superheater, Heat-Exchanger, and Condenser Tubes
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A688/A688M-24 - Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Feedwater Heater Tubes
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A789/A789M-24 - Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Ferritic/Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General Service
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A941-24 - Standard Terminology Relating to Steel, Stainless Steel, Related Alloys, and Ferroalloys
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A268/A268M-24 - Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Ferritic and Martensitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General Service
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A269/A269M-24 - Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General Service
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A370-24 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A370-23 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 15-Sep-2023
• Refers: ASTM A941-23 - Standard Terminology Relating to Steel, Stainless Steel, Related Alloys, and Ferroalloys
• Effective Date: 01-May-2023
• Referred By: ASTM A1047/A1047M-05(2023) - Standard Test Method for Pneumatic Leak Testing of Tubing
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Referred By: ASTM B676-19 - Standard Specification for UNS N08367 Welded Tube
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Referred By: ASTM A268/A268M-22 - Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Ferritic and Martensitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General Service
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Referred By: ASTM A1098/A1098M-18(2022) - Standard Specification for Welded Austenitic, Ferritic, Martensitic and Duplex Stainless Steel Boiler, Superheater, Condenser, and Heat Exchanger Tubes with Textured Surface(s)
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023

Overview

ASTM A1016/A1016M-23 is a widely recognized standard specification published by ASTM International. It sets the general requirements for ferritic alloy steel tubes, austenitic alloy steel tubes, and stainless steel tubes. This standard functions as an umbrella document, establishing baseline technical and mechanical property requirements for these types of tubes, unless otherwise overridden by more specific individual product standards.

Applicable to steel tubes manufactured by any process, ASTM A1016/A1016M-23 ensures materials meet essential performance criteria before use in industrial applications. The specification covers both metric (SI) and inch-pound units and supports compliance with international standardization principles, as guided by the World Trade Organization’s Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

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Key Topics

Mechanical Properties and Testing

• Steel tube material must meet specified tensile properties, including yield strength and elongation.
• Comprehensive testing is required for conformity:
  • Flattening test and reverse flattening test
  • Reverse bend test
  • Flaring and flange tests
  • Hardness, ultrasonic, eddy current, and flux leakage tests
  • Hydrostatic testing

Dimensional Tolerances

• Strict guidelines for variations in wall thickness, outside diameter, and length are defined.
• Addressed ovality and straightness standards guarantee product fit and reliability.

Manufacturing and Marking

• Covers steelmaking processes and details how finished tubes should be presented.
• Requirements for packaging, marking, and traceability ensure identification and quality control.

Ordering Information

• Purchasers must identify essential parameters when ordering:
  • Quantity and dimensions (OD, wall thickness, length)
  • Grade or UNS number, method of manufacture (seamless, welded, etc.)
  • Test reports and any special requirements

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Applications

ASTM A1016/A1016M-23 serves a vital role across many critical industries by confirming that tubular products are produced and tested to predictable, consistent standards. The tubes covered by this standard find use in:

• Power Generation: Boiler tubes, superheater tubes, and heat exchanger tubes in steam and nuclear plants.
• Chemical Processing: Tubing for transporting corrosive fluids, requiring robust and reliable stainless steels.
• Oil & Gas: Feedwater heaters and general service tubes for refineries and upstream equipment.
• General Industrial Use: Applications demanding high strength, corrosion resistance, and specific mechanical properties.

By ensuring compliance with ASTM A1016/A1016M-23, companies guarantee the integrity, safety, and durability of their steel tube components-important for both regulatory compliance and end-use reliability.

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Related Standards

ASTM A1016/A1016M-23 is a general requirements standard referenced by numerous individual product specifications, including:

• A209/A209M: Carbon-Molybdenum Alloy-Steel Boiler and Superheater Tubes
• A213/A213M: Ferritic and Austenitic Alloy-Steel Boiler, Superheater, and Heat-Exchanger Tubes
• A249/A249M: Welded Austenitic Steel Boiler, Superheater, Heat-Exchanger, and Condenser Tubes
• A268/A268M and A269/A269M: Seamless and Welded Ferritic/Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubes for General Service
• A270/A270M: Sanitary Tubing
• A334/A334M: Tubes for Low-Temperature Service
• A688/A688M, A771/A771M, A789/A789M, A803/A803M: Specialized tubing for nuclear, industrial, and feedwater applications

Additional references include: ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Federal and Military Standards related to testing and product marking, and Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC) standards for surface preparation.

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By adhering to ASTM A1016/A1016M-23, manufacturers and end-users benefit from the consistency, safety, and quality assurance necessary for high-performance applications of ferritic, austenitic, and stainless steel tubes worldwide.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: A1016/A1016M − 23
Standard Specification for
General Requirements for Ferritic Alloy Steel, Austenitic
Alloy Steel, and Stainless Steel Tubes
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A1016/A1016M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* specification and a more stringent requirement of the purchase
order, the purchase order shall prevail.
1.1 This specification covers a group of requirements that,
unless otherwise specified in an individual specification, shall 1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the
apply to the ASTM product specifications noted below.
SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each
Title of Specification ASTM
A
Designation system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system
shall be used independently of the other. Combining values
Seamless Carbon-Molybdenum Alloy-Steel Boiler and A209/A209M
from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the
Superheater Tubes
Seamless Ferritic and Austenitic Alloy-Steel Boiler, Superheater, A213/A213M
standard. The inch-pound units shall apply unless the “M”
and Heat-Exchanger Tubes
designation (SI) of the product specification is specified in the
Welded Austenitic Steel Boiler, Superheater, Heat-Exchanger, A249/A249M
order.
and Condenser Tubes
Electric-Resistance-Welded Ferritic Alloy-Steel Boiler and A250/A250M
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
Superheater Tubes
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
Seamless and Welded Ferritic and Martensitic Stainless Steel A268/A268M
Tubing for General Service
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for A269/A269M
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
General Service
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Seamless and Welded Austenitic and Ferritic/Austenitic A270/A270M
Stainless Steel Sanitary Tubing
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Seamless and Welded Carbon and Alloy-Steel Tubes for A334/A334M
Low-Temperature Service
2. Referenced Documents
Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Feedwater Heater Tubes A688/A688M
Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for Breeder Reactor Core A771/A771M
2.1 ASTM Standards:
Components
A209/A209M Specification for Seamless Carbon-
Seamless and Welded Ferritic/Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing A789/A789M
for General Service Molybdenum Alloy-Steel Boiler and Superheater Tubes
Seamless and Welded Ferritic Stainless Steel Feedwater Heater A803/A803M
A213/A213M Specification for Seamless Ferritic and Aus-
Tubes
tenitic Alloy-Steel Boiler, Superheater, and Heat-
Seamless Austenitic and Martensitic Stainless Steel Duct A826/A826M
Tubes for Liquid Metal-Cooled Reactor Core Components
Exchanger Tubes
High-Frequency Induction Welded, Unannealed, Austenitic A851
A249/A249M Specification for Welded Austenitic Steel
Steel Condenser Tubes
Boiler, Superheater, Heat-Exchanger, and Condenser
Welded Austenitic Alloy Steel Boiler, Superheater, Condenser, A1098/A1098M
and Heat Exchanger Tubes with Textured Surface(s)
Tubes
A250/A250M Specification for Electric-Resistance-Welded
A
These designations refer to the latest issue of the respective specifications.
Ferritic Alloy-Steel Boiler and Superheater Tubes (With-
1.2 In the case of conflict between a requirement of a drawn 2017)
product specification and a requirement of this general require- A268/A268M Specification for Seamless and Welded Fer-
ments specification, the product specification shall prevail. In ritic and Martensitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General
the case of conflict between a requirement of the product Service
specification or a requirement of this general requirements
A269/A269M Specification for Seamless and Welded Aus-
tenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General Service
1 2
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel, For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
A01.10 on Stainless and Alloy Steel Tubular Products. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2023. Published November 2023. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 2001. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as A1016/A1016M – 18a. The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
DOI: 10.1520/A1016_A1016M-23. www.astm.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
A1016/A1016M − 23
A270/A270M Specification for Seamless and Welded Aus- 2.2 ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code:
tenitic and Ferritic/Austenitic Stainless Steel Sanitary Section IX
Tubing 2.3 Federal Standard:
A334/A334M Specification for Seamless and Welded Car- FED-STD-183 Continuous Identification Marking of Iron
bon and Alloy-Steel Tubes for Low-Temperature Service and Steel Products
A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing 2.4 Military Standards:
of Steel Products MIL-STD-271 Nondestructive Testing Requirements for
A530/A530M Specification for General Requirements for Metals
MIL-STD-163 Steel Mill Products Preparation for Ship-
Specialized Carbon and Alloy Steel Pipe
A688/A688M Specification for Seamless and Welded Aus- ment and Storage
MIL-STD-792 Identification Marking Requirements for
tenitic Stainless Steel Feedwater Heater Tubes
Special Purpose Equipment
A700 Guide for Packaging, Marking, and Loading Methods
for Steel Products for Shipment 2.5 Steel Structures Painting Council:
SSPC-SP6 Surface Preparation Specification No. 6 Com-
A751 Test Methods and Practices for Chemical Analysis of
mercial Blast Cleaning
Steel Products
A771/A771M Specification for Seamless Austenitic and 2.6 Other Documents:
SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Nondestructive
Martensitic Stainless Steel Tubing for Liquid Metal-
Personnel Qualification and Certification
Cooled Reactor Core Components (Withdrawn 2004)
AIAG Bar Code Symbology Standard
A789/A789M Specification for Seamless and Welded
Ferritic/Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General
3. Terminology
Service
A803/A803M Specification for Seamless and Welded Fer- 3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 The definitions in Test Methods and Definitions A370
ritic Stainless Steel Feedwater Heater Tubes
or Test Methods A1058, Test Methods, Practices, and Termi-
A826/A826M Specification for Seamless Austenitic and
nology A751, and Terminology A941 are applicable to this
Martensitic Stainless Steel Duct Tubes for Liquid Metal-
specification and to those listed in 1.1.
Cooled Reactor Core Components (Withdrawn 2004)
3.1.2 heat, n—in secondary melting, all of the ingots re-
A851 Specification for High-Frequency Induction Welded,
melted from a single primary heat.
Unannealed, Austenitic Steel Condenser Tubes (With-
drawn 2002)
3.1.3 imperfection, n—any discontinuity or irregularity
A941 Terminology Relating to Steel, Stainless Steel, Related
found in a tube.
Alloys, and Ferroalloys
4. Manufacture
A1047/A1047M Test Method for Pneumatic Leak Testing of
Tubing
4.1 The steel shall be made by any process.
A1058 Test Methods for Mechanical Testing of Steel
4.2 The primary melting is permitted to incorporate separate
Products—Metric
degassing or refining and is permitted to be followed by
A1098/A1098M Specification for Welded Austenitic,
secondary melting, such as electroslag remelting or vacuum-
Ferritic, Martensitic and Duplex Stainless Steel Boiler,
arc remelting.
Superheater, Condenser, and Heat Exchanger Tubes with
4.3 When steel of different grades is sequentially strand
Textured Surface(s)
cast, the resultant transition material shall be removed using an
D3951 Practice for Commercial Packaging
established procedure that positively separates the grades.
E92 Test Methods for Vickers Hardness and Knoop Hard-
ness of Metallic Materials
5. Ordering Information
E213 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Metal Pipe and
5.1 It is the responsibility of the purchaser to specify all
Tubing
requirements that are necessary for product ordered under the
E273 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of the Weld Zone of
product specification. Such requirements to be considered
Welded Pipe and Tubing
include, but are not limited to, the following:
E309 Practice for Eddy Current Examination of Steel Tubu-
5.1.1 Quantity (feet, metres, or number of pieces),
lar Products Using Magnetic Saturation
E426 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examina-
tion of Seamless and Welded Tubular Products, Titanium, 4
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME
International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
Austenitic Stainless Steel and Similar Alloys
www.asme.org.
E570 Practice for Flux Leakage Examination of Ferromag-
Available from Standardization Documents Order Desk, Bldg. 4 Section D, 700
netic Steel Tubular Products
Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5098, Attn: NPODS.
Available from Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC), 40 24th St., 6th Floor,
Pittsburgh, PA 15222-4656, http://www.sspc.org.
Available from American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), P.O. Box
28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org.
Available from Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG), 26200 Lahser Rd.,
Suite 200, Southfield, MI 48033, http://www.aiag.org.
A1016/A1016M − 23
5.1.2 Name of material (stainless steel tubing), 8. Permitted Variations in Wall Thickness
5.1.3 Method of manufacture, when applicable (seamless
8.1 Variations from the specified minimum wall thickness
(SML), welded (WLD), or heavily cold-worked (HCW)),
shall not exceed the amounts prescribed in Table 1.
5.1.4 Grade or UNS number,
8.2 For tubes 2 in. [50 mm] and over in outside diameter and
5.1.5 Size (outside diameter and average or minimum wall
0.220 in. [5.6 mm] and over in thickness, the variation in wall
thickness),
thickness in any one cross section of any one tube shall not
5.1.6 Length (specific or random),
exceed the following percentage of the actual mean wall at the
5.1.7 End finish if required,
section. The actual mean wall is defined as the average of the
5.1.8 Optional requirements,
thickest and thinnest wall in that section.
5.1.9 Specific type of melting, if required,
Seamless tubes ±10 %
Welded tubes ±5 %
5.1.10 Test report requirements,
5.1.11 Specification designation and year of issue, and 8.3 When cold-finished tubes as ordered require wall thick-
nesses ⁄4 in. [19.1 mm] or over, or an inside diameter 60 % or
5.1.12 Special requirements or any supplementary
less of the outside diameter, the permitted variations in wall
requirements, or both.
thickness for hot-finished tubes shall apply.
6. Chemical Composition
9. Permitted Variations in Outside Diameter
6.1 Chemical Analysis—Samples for chemical analysis, and
9.1 Except as provided in 9.2.1, 9.3, and 24.10.4, variations
method of analysis, shall be in accordance with Test Methods,
from the specified outside diameter shall not exceed the
Practices, and Terminology A751.
amounts prescribed in Table 2.
6.2 Heat Analysis—An analysis of each heat of steel shall be
9.2 Thin-wall tubes usually develop significant ovality (out-
made by the steel manufacturer to determine the percentages of
of-roundness) during final annealing, or straightening, or both.
the elements specified. If secondary melting processes are
Thin-wall tubes are defined as those with a specified wall 3 %
employed, the heat analysis shall be obtained from one
or less than the specified OD, or with a wall specified as 0.020
remelted ingot or the product of one remelted ingot of each
in. [0.5 mm] or less.
primary melt. The chemical composition thus determined, or
9.2.1 1 The diameter tolerances of Table 2 are not sufficient
that determined from a product analysis made by the tubular
to provide for additional ovality expected in thin-wall tubes,
product manufacturer, shall conform to the requirements speci-
and, for such tubes, are applicable only to the mean of the
fied in the product specification.
extreme (maximum and minimum) outside diameter readings
6.2.1 For steels ordered under product specifications refer-
in any one cross section. However, for thin wall tubes the
encing this specification of general requirements, the steel shall
difference in extreme outside diameter readings (ovality) in any
not contain an unspecified element, other than nitrogen for
one cross section shall not exceed the following ovality
stainless steels, for the ordered grade to the extent that the steel
allowances:
conforms to the requirements of another grade for which that
Outside Diameter, in. [mm] Ovality Allowance
element is a specified element having a required minimum
content. For this requirement, a grade is defined as an alloy
1 [25.4] and under 0.020 [0.5]
Over 1 [25.4] 2.0 % of specified outside
described individually and identified by its own UNS designa-
diameter
tion in a table of chemical requirements within any specifica-
tion listed within the scope as being covered by this specifi-
cation.
A
TABLE 1 Permitted Variations in Wall Thickness
6.3 Product Analysis—Product analysis requirements and
Wall Thickness, %
options, if any, shall be as contained in the product specifica-
Outside 0.095 Over 0.095 Over 0.150
Over
Diameter [2.4] to 0.150 to 0.180
tion.
0.180
in. and [2.4 to [3.8 to
[4.6]
[mm] Under 3.8], incl 4.6], incl
7. Tensile Properties
Over Under Over Under Over Under Over Under
Seamless, Hot-Finished Tubes
7.1 The material shall conform to the tensile property
4 [100] 40 0 35 0 33 0 28 0
and
requirements prescribed in the individual product specification.
under
Over 4 . . . . . . 35 0 33 0 28 0
7.2 The yield strength, when specified, shall be determined
[100]
corresponding to a permanent offset of 0.2 % of the gauge
Seamless, Cold-Finished Tubes
length or to a total extension of 0.5 % of the gauge length under
Over Under
1 ⁄2 [38.1] and under 20 0
load.
Over 1 ⁄2 [38.1] 22 0
Welded Tubes
7.3 If the percentage of elongation of any test specimen is
All sizes 18 0
less than that specified and any part of the fracture is more than
A
3 These permitted variations in wall thickness apply only to tubes, except
⁄4 in. [19.0 mm] from the center of the gauge length, as
internal-upset tubes, as rolled or cold-finished, and before swaging, expanding,
indicated by scribe marks on the specimen before testing, a
bending, polishing, or other fabricating operations.
retest shall be allowed.
A1016/A1016M − 23
A
TABLE 2 Permitted Variations in Outside Diameter
11. Permitted Variations in Height of Flash on Electric-
Specified Outside Diameter, Permitted Variations, in. [mm]
Resistance-Welded Tubes
in. [mm] Over Under
11.1 For tubes over 2 in. [50.8 mm] in outside diameter, or
Hot-Finished Seamless Tubes
1 1
4 [100] or under ⁄64 [0.4] ⁄32 [0.8] over 0.135 in. [3.44 mm] in wall thickness, the flash on the
1 1 3
Over 4 to 7 ⁄2 [100 to 200], incl ⁄64 [0.4] ⁄64 [1.2]
inside of the tubes shall be mechanically removed by cutting to
1 1 1
Over 7 ⁄2 to 9 [200 to 225], incl ⁄64 [0.4] ⁄16 [1.6]
a maximum height of 0.010 in. [0.25 mm] at any point on the
Welded Tubes and Cold-Finished Seamless Tubes
Under 1 [25] 0.004 [0.1] 0.004 [0.11] tube.
1 to 1 ⁄2 [25 to 40], incl 0.006 [0.15] 0.006 [0.15]
11.2 For tubes 2 in. [50.8 mm] and under in outside
Over 1 ⁄2 to 2 [40 to 50], excl 0.008 [0.2] 0.008 [0.2]
2 to 2 ⁄2 [50 to 65], excl 0.010 [0.25] 0.010 [0.25]
diameter and 0.135 in. [3.44 mm] and under in wall thickness,
2 ⁄2 to 3 [65 to 75], excl 0.012 [0.3] 0.012 [0.3]
the flash on the inside of the tube shall be mechanically
3 to 4 [75 to 100], incl 0.015 [0.38] 0.015 [0.38]
1 removed by cutting to a maximum height of 0.006 in. [0.15
Over 4 to 7 ⁄2 [100 to 200], incl 0.015 [0.38] 0.025 [0.64]
Over 7 ⁄2 to 9 [200 to 225], incl 0.015 [0.38] 0.045 [1.14]
mm] at any point on the tube.
A
Except as provided in 9.2 and 9.3, these permitted variations include out-of-
roundness. These permitted variations in outside diameter apply to hot-finished
12. Straightness and Finish
seamless, welded and cold-finished seamless tubes before other fabricating
operations such as upsetting, swaging, expanding, bending, or polishing.
12.1 Finished tubes shall be reasonably straight and have
smooth ends free of burrs. They shall have a workmanlike
finish. It is permitted to remove surface imperfections by
grinding, provided that a smooth curved surface is maintained,
9.3 For cold-finished seamless austenitic and ferritic/
and the wall thickness is not decreased to less than that
austenitic tubes, an ovality allowance is necessary for all sizes
permitted by this or the product specification, or the purchase
less than 2 in. [50.8 mm] outside diameter, because they are
order. The outside diameter at the point of grinding may be
likely to become out of round during their final heat treatment.
reduced by the amount so removed.
For such tubes, the maximum and minimum outside diameter
at any cross section shall not deviate from the nominal
13. Repair by Welding
diameter by more than 60.010 in. [60.25 mm]. However, the
13.1 Repair welding of base metal defects in tubing is
mean diameter at that cross section must still be within the
permitted only with the approval of the purchaser and with the
given permitted variation given in Table 2. In the event of
further understanding that the tube shall be marked “WR” and
conflict between the provisions of 9.2.1 and those of 9.3, the
the composition of the deposited filler metal shall be suitable
larger value of ovality tolerance shall apply.
for the composition being welded. Defects shall be thoroughly
9.4 When the specified wall is 2 % or less of the specified
chipped or ground out before welding and each repaired length
OD, the method of measurement is per agreement between
shall be reheat treated or stress relieved as required by the
purchaser and manufacturer (see Note 1).
applicable specification. Each length of repaired tube shall be
examined by a nondestructive test as required by the product
NOTE 1—Very thin wall tubing may not be stiff enough for the outside
diameter to be accurately measured with a point contact method, such as specification.
with the use of a micrometer or caliper. When very thin walls are
13.2 Repair welding shall be performed using procedures
specified, “go” – “no go” ring gauges are commonly used to measure
1 and welders or welding operators that have been qualified in
diameters of 1 ⁄2 in. [38.1 mm] or less. A 0.002 in. [0.05 mm] additional
tolerance is usually added on the “go” ring gauge to allow clearance for
accordance with ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code,
sliding. On larger diameters, measurement is commonly performed with a
Section IX.
pi tape. Other methods, such as optical methods, may also be considered.
14. Retests
10. Permitted Variations in Length
14.1 If the results of the mechanical tests of any group or lot
10.1 Variations from the specified length shall not exceed
do not conform to the requirements specified in the individual
the amounts prescribed in Table 3.
specification, retests may be made on additional tubes of
double the original number from the same group or lot, each of
which shall conform to the requirements specified.
A
TABLE 3 Permitted Variations in Length
Specified
15. Reheat Treatment
Method of Outside Cut Length, in. [mm]
Manufacture Diameter, in. Over Under
15.1 If the individual tubes or the tubes selected to represent
[mm]
any group or lot fail to conform to the test requirements, the
Seamless, hot-finished All sizes ⁄16 [5] 0 [0]
individual tubes or the group or lot represented may be reheat
Seamless, cold-finished Under 2 [50.8] ⁄8 [3] 0 [0]
2 [50.8] or over ⁄16 [5] 0 [0]
treated and resubmitted for test. Not more than two reheat
Welded Under 2 [50.8] ⁄8 [3] 0 [0]
treatments shall be permitted.
2 [50.8] or over ⁄16 [5] 0 [0]
A
These permitted variations in length apply to tubes before bending. They apply
16. Test Specimens
to cut lengths up to and including 24 ft [7.3 m]. For lengths greater than 24 ft [7.3
m], the above over-tolerances shall be increased by ⁄8 in. [3 mm] for each 10 ft [3
16.1 Test specimens shall be taken from the ends of finished
m] or fraction thereof over 24 ft or ⁄2 in. [13 mm], whichever is the lesser.
tubes prior to upsetting, swaging, expanding, or other forming
A1016/A1016M − 23
operations, or being cut to length. They shall be smooth on the 18.4 When low D-to-t ratio tubular products are tested,
ends and free of burrs and flaws. because the strain imposed due to geometry is unreasonably
high on the inside surface at the six and twelve o’clock
16.2 If any test specimen shows flaws or defective
locations, cracks at these locations shall not be cause for
machining, it may be discarded and another specimen substi-
rejection if the D-to-t ratio is less than 10.
tuted.
19. Reverse Flattening Test
17. Method of Mechanical Testing
19.1 A section 4 in. [100 mm] in length of finished welded
17.1 The specimens and mechanical tests required shall be
tubing in sizes down to and including ⁄2 in. [12.7 mm] in
made in accordance with Test Methods and Definitions A370
outside diameter shall be split longitudinally 90° on each side
or Test Methods A1058.
of the weld and the sample opened and flattened with the weld
17.1.1 Unless otherwise specified in the ordering
at the point of maximum bend. There shall be no evidence of
requirements, Test Methods A1058 shall apply when the metric
cracks or lack of penetration or overlaps resulting from flash
version of the product specification is specified.
removal in the weld.
17.2 Specimens shall be tested at room temperature.
20. Reverse Bend Test
17.3 Small or subsize specimens as described in Test
20.1 A section 4 in. [100 mm] minimum in length shall be
Methods and Definitions A370 or Test Methods A1058 may be
split longitudinally 90° on each side of the weld. The sample
used only when there is insufficient material to prepare one of
shall then be opened and bent around a mandrel with a
the standard specimens. When using small or subsize
maximum thickness of four times the wall thickness, with the
specimens, the largest one possible shall be used.
mandrel parallel to the weld and against the original outside
18. Flattening Test
surface of the tube. The weld shall be at the point of maximum
1 bend. There shall be no evidence of cracks or of overlaps
18.1 A section of tube not less than 2 ⁄2 in. [60 mm] in
resulting from the reduction in thickness of the weld area by
length for seamless tubes and not less than 4 in. [100 mm] in
cold working. When the geometry or size of the tubing make it
length for welded tubes and for heavily cold-worked tubes
difficult to test the sample as a single piece, the sample may be
shall be flattened cold between parallel plates in two steps. For
sectioned into smaller pieces provided a minimum of 4 in. of
welded tubes, the weld shall be placed 90° from the direction
weld is subjected to reverse bending.
of the applied force (at a point of maximum bending). During
the first step, which is a test for ductility, no cracks or breaks,
20.2 The reverse bend test is not applicable when the wall is
except as provided for in 18.4, on the inside, outside, or end
10 % or more of the specified outside diameter, or the wall
surfaces shall occur in seamless tubes, or on the inside or
thickness is 0.134 in. [3.4 mm] or greater, or the outside
outside surfaces of welded tubes and heavily cold-worked
diameter is less than 0.375 in. [9.5 mm]. Under these
tubes, until the distance between the plates is less than the
conditions, the reverse flattening test shall apply.
value of H calculated by the following equation:
21. Flaring Test
11e t
~ !
H 5 (1)
21.1 A section of tube approximately 4 in. [100 mm] in
e1t/D
length shall stand being flared with a tool having a 60° included
where:
angle until the tube at the mouth of the flare has been expanded
H = distance between flattening plates, in. [mm], to the percentages specified in Table 4 without cracking or
t = specified wall thickness of the tube, in. [mm],
showing imperfections rejectable under the provisions of the
D = specified outside diameter of the tube, in. [mm], and
product specification.
e = deformation per unit length (constant for a given grade
22. Flange Test
of steel: 0.07 for medium-carbon steel (maximum
specified carbon 0.19 % or greater), 0.08 for ferritic
22.1 A section of tube shall be capable of having a flange
alloy steel, 0.09 for austenitic steel, 0.09 for duplex
turned over at a right angle to the body of the tube without
(ferritic/austenitic) stainless steels, and 0.09 for low-
TABLE 4 Flaring Test Requirements
carbon steel (maximum specified carbon 0.18 % or
less)). Minimum Expansion of Inside Diameter, %
Ratio of Inside Other Ferritic
Carbon-Molybdenum
During the second step, which is a test for soundness, the
Diameter to Specified Alloy Steels and
and Austenitic Steels
A
Outside Diameter Other Stainless Steels
flattening shall be continued until the specimen breaks or the
0.9 21 15
opposite walls of the specimen meet. Evidence of laminated or
0.8 22 17
unsound material, or of incomplete weld that is revealed during
0.7 25 19
the entire flattening test shall be cause for rejection.
0.6 30 23
0.5 39 28
18.2 Surface imperfections in the test specimens before
0.4 51 38
flattening, but revealed during the first step of the flattening 0.3 68 50
A
test, shall be judged in accordance with the finish requirements.
In determining the ratio of inside diameter to specified outside diameter, the
inside diameter shall be defined as the actual mean inside diameter of the material
18.3 Superficial ruptures resulting from surface imperfec-
tested.
tions shall not be cause for rejection.
A1016/A1016M − 23
cracking or showing imperfections rejectable under the provi- of conflict between these methods and practices and this
sions of the product specification. The width of the flange for specification, the requirements of this specification shall pre-
carbon and alloy steels shall be not less than the percentages vail.
specified in Table 5. For the austenitic grades, the width of the
24.2 The following information is for the benefit of the user
flange for all sizes listed in Table 5 shall be not less than 15 %.
of this specification.
24.2.1 Calibration standards for the nondestructive electric
23. Hardness Test
test are convenient standards for calibration of nondestructive
23.1 For tubes with wall thickness 0.200 in. [5.1 mm] or
testing equipment only. For several reasons, including shape,
over, either the Brinell or Rockwell hardness test shall be used.
orientation, width, and so forth, the correlation between the
When Brinell hardness testing is used, a 10-mm ball with 3000,
signal produced in the electric test from an imperfection and
1500, or 500-kg load, or a 5-mm ball with 750-kg load shall be
from calibration standards is only approximate. A purchaser
used, at the option of the manufacturer.
interested in ascertaining the nature (type, size, location, and
23.2 For tubes with wall thickness 0.065 in. [1.65 mm] or
orientation) of discontinuities that can be detected in the
over but less than 0.200 in. [5.1 mm], the Rockwell hardness
specific application of these examinations should discuss this
test shall be used.
with the manufacturer of the tubular product.
24.2.2 The ultrasonic examination referred to in this speci-
23.3 For tubes with wall thickness less than 0.065 in. [1.65
fication is intended to detect longitudinal discontinuities having
mm], the hardness test shall not be required unless the product
a reflective area similar to or larger than the calibration
specification to which the tube is produced specifically permits
reference notches specified in 24.8. The examination may not
Vickers hardness testing for tubes of this wall thickness.
detect circumferentially oriented imperfections or short, deep
23.4 The Brinell hardness test shall, at the option of the
defects.
manufacturer, be made on the outside of the tube near the end,
24.2.3 The eddy current examination referenced in this
on the outside of a specimen cut from the tube, or on the wall
specification has the capability of detecting significant
cross section of a specimen cut from the tube. This test shall be
discontinuities, especially of the short abrupt type. Practices
made so that the distance from the center of the impression to
E309 and E426 contain additional information regarding the
the edge of the specimen is at least 2.5 times the diameter of
capabilities and limitations of eddy-current examination.
the impression.
24.2.4 The flux leakage examination referred to in this
23.5 The Rockwell hardness test shall, at the option of the
specification is capable of detecting the presence and location
manufacturer, be made on the inside surface, on the wall cross
of significant longitudinally or transversely oriented disconti-
section, or on a flat on the outside s
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: A1016/A1016M − 18a A1016/A1016M − 23
Standard Specification for
General Requirements for Ferritic Alloy Steel, Austenitic
Alloy Steel, and Stainless Steel Tubes
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A1016/A1016M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 This specification covers a group of requirements that, unless otherwise specified in an individual specification, shall apply
to the ASTM product specifications noted below.
Title of Specification ASTM
A
Designation
Seamless Carbon-Molybdenum Alloy-Steel Boiler and A209/A209M
Superheater Tubes
Seamless Ferritic and Austenitic Alloy-Steel Boiler, Superheater, A213/A213M
and Heat-Exchanger Tubes
Welded Austenitic Steel Boiler, Superheater, Heat-Exchanger, A249/A249M
and Condenser Tubes
Electric-Resistance-Welded Ferritic Alloy-Steel Boiler and A250/A250M
Superheater Tubes
Seamless and Welded Ferritic and Martensitic Stainless Steel A268/A268M
Tubing for General Service
Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for A269/A269M
General Service
Seamless and Welded Austenitic and Ferritic/Austenitic A270/A270M
Stainless Steel Sanitary Tubing
Seamless and Welded Carbon and Alloy-Steel Tubes for A334/A334M
Low-Temperature Service
Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Feedwater Heater Tubes A688/A688M
Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for Breeder Reactor Core A771/A771M
Components
Seamless and Welded Ferritic/Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing A789/A789M
for General Service
Seamless and Welded Ferritic Stainless Steel Feedwater Heater A803/A803M
Tubes
Seamless Austenitic and Martensitic Stainless Steel Duct A826/A826M
Tubes for Liquid Metal-Cooled Reactor Core Components
High-Frequency Induction Welded, Unannealed, Austenitic A851
Steel Condenser Tubes
Welded Austenitic Alloy Steel Boiler, Superheater, Condenser, A1098/A1098M
and Heat Exchanger Tubes with Textured Surface(s)
A
These designations refer to the latest issue of the respective specifications.
1.2 In the case of conflict between a requirement of a product specification and a requirement of this general requirements
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel, Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee A01.10
on Stainless and Alloy Steel Tubular Products.
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2018Nov. 1, 2023. Published October 2018November 2023. Originally approved in 2001. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as
A1016/A1016M – 18.A1016/A1016M – 18a. DOI: 10.1520/A1016_A1016M-18A.10.1520/A1016_A1016M-23.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
A1016/A1016M − 23
specification, the product specification shall prevail. In the case of conflict between a requirement of the product specification or
a requirement of this general requirements specification and a more stringent requirement of the purchase order, the purchase order
shall prevail.
1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the SI units
are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used
independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. The
inch-pound units shall apply unless the “M” designation (SI) of the product specification is specified in the order.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A209/A209M Specification for Seamless Carbon-Molybdenum Alloy-Steel Boiler and Superheater Tubes
A213/A213M Specification for Seamless Ferritic and Austenitic Alloy-Steel Boiler, Superheater, and Heat-Exchanger Tubes
A249/A249M Specification for Welded Austenitic Steel Boiler, Superheater, Heat-Exchanger, and Condenser Tubes
A250/A250M Specification for Electric-Resistance-Welded Ferritic Alloy-Steel Boiler and Superheater Tubes (Withdrawn
2017)
A268/A268M Specification for Seamless and Welded Ferritic and Martensitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General Service
A269/A269M Specification for Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General Service
A270/A270M Specification for Seamless and Welded Austenitic and Ferritic/Austenitic Stainless Steel Sanitary Tubing
A334/A334M Specification for Seamless and Welded Carbon and Alloy-Steel Tubes for Low-Temperature Service
A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
A530/A530M Specification for General Requirements for Specialized Carbon and Alloy Steel Pipe
A688/A688M Specification for Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Feedwater Heater Tubes
A700 Guide for Packaging, Marking, and Loading Methods for Steel Products for Shipment
A751 Test Methods and Practices for Chemical Analysis of Steel Products
A771/A771M Specification for Seamless Austenitic and Martensitic Stainless Steel Tubing for Liquid Metal-Cooled Reactor
Core Components (Withdrawn 2004)
A789/A789M Specification for Seamless and Welded Ferritic/Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for General Service
A803/A803M Specification for Seamless and Welded Ferritic Stainless Steel Feedwater Heater Tubes
A826/A826M Specification for Seamless Austenitic and Martensitic Stainless Steel Duct Tubes for Liquid Metal-Cooled
Reactor Core Components (Withdrawn 2004)
A851 Specification for High-Frequency Induction Welded, Unannealed, Austenitic Steel Condenser Tubes (Withdrawn 2002)
A941 Terminology Relating to Steel, Stainless Steel, Related Alloys, and Ferroalloys
A1047/A1047M Test Method for Pneumatic Leak Testing of Tubing
A1058 Test Methods for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products—Metric
A1098/A1098M Specification for Welded Austenitic, Ferritic, Martensitic and Duplex Stainless Steel Boiler, Superheater,
Condenser, and Heat Exchanger Tubes with Textured Surface(s)
D3951 Practice for Commercial Packaging
E92 Test Methods for Vickers Hardness and Knoop Hardness of Metallic Materials
E213 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Metal Pipe and Tubing
E273 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of the Weld Zone of Welded Pipe and Tubing
E309 Practice for Eddy Current Examination of Steel Tubular Products Using Magnetic Saturation
E426 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Seamless and Welded Tubular Products, Titanium, Austenitic
Stainless Steel and Similar Alloys
E570 Practice for Flux Leakage Examination of Ferromagnetic Steel Tubular Products
2.2 ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code:
Section IX
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
www.asme.org.
A1016/A1016M − 23
2.3 Federal Standard:
FED-STD-183 Continuous Identification Marking of Iron and Steel Products
2.4 Military Standards:
MIL-STD-271 Nondestructive Testing Requirements for Metals
MIL-STD-163 Steel Mill Products Preparation for Shipment and Storage
MIL-STD-792 Identification Marking Requirements for Special Purpose Equipment
2.5 Steel Structures Painting Council:
SSPC-SP6 Surface Preparation Specification No. 6 Commercial Blast Cleaning
2.6 Other Documents:
SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Nondestructive Personnel Qualification and Certification
AIAG Bar Code Symbology Standard
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 The definitions in Test Methods and Definitions A370 or Test Methods A1058, Test Methods, Practices, and Terminology
A751, and Terminology A941 are applicable to this specification and to those listed in 1.1.
3.1.2 heat, n—in secondary melting, all of the ingots remelted from a single primary heat.
3.1.3 imperfection, n—any discontinuity or irregularity found in a tube.
4. Manufacture
4.1 The steel shall be made by any process.
4.2 The primary melting is permitted to incorporate separate degassing or refining and is permitted to be followed by secondary
melting, such as electroslag remelting or vacuum-arc remelting.
4.3 When steel of different grades is sequentially strand cast, the resultant transition material shall be removed using an established
procedure that positively separates the grades.
5. Ordering Information
5.1 It is the responsibility of the purchaser to specify all requirements that are necessary for product ordered under the product
specification. Such requirements to be considered include, but are not limited to, the following:
5.1.1 Quantity (feet, metres, or number of pieces),
5.1.2 Name of material (stainless steel tubing),
5.1.3 Method of manufacture, when applicable (seamless (SML), welded (WLD), or heavily cold-worked (HCW)),
5.1.4 Grade or UNS number,
5.1.5 Size (outside diameter and average or minimum wall thickness),
5.1.6 Length (specific or random),
5.1.7 End finish if required,
5.1.8 Optional requirements,
Available from Standardization Documents Order Desk, Bldg. 4 Section D, 700 Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5098, Attn: NPODS.
Available from Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC), 40 24th St., 6th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222-4656, http://www.sspc.org.
Available from American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), P.O. Box 28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org.
Available from Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG), 26200 Lahser Rd., Suite 200, Southfield, MI 48033, http://www.aiag.org.
A1016/A1016M − 23
5.1.9 Specific type of melting, if required,
5.1.10 Test report requirements,
5.1.11 Specification designation and year of issue, and
5.1.12 Special requirements or any supplementary requirements, or both.
6. Chemical Composition
6.1 Chemical Analysis—Samples for chemical analysis, and method of analysis, shall be in accordance with Test Methods,
Practices, and Terminology A751.
6.2 Heat Analysis—An analysis of each heat of steel shall be made by the steel manufacturer to determine the percentages of the
elements specified. If secondary melting processes are employed, the heat analysis shall be obtained from one remelted ingot or
the product of one remelted ingot of each primary melt. The chemical composition thus determined, or that determined from a
product analysis made by the tubular product manufacturer, shall conform to the requirements specified in the product
specification.
6.2.1 For steels ordered under product specifications referencing this specification of general requirements, the steel shall not
contain an unspecified element, other than nitrogen for stainless steels, for the ordered grade to the extent that the steel conforms
to the requirements of another grade for which that element is a specified element having a required minimum content. For this
requirement, a grade is defined as an alloy described individually and identified by its own UNS designation in a table of chemical
requirements within any specification listed within the scope as being covered by this specification.
6.3 Product Analysis—Product analysis requirements and options, if any, shall be as contained in the product specification.
7. Tensile Properties
7.1 The material shall conform to the tensile property requirements prescribed in the individual product specification.
7.2 The yield strength, when specified, shall be determined corresponding to a permanent offset of 0.2 % of the gauge length or
to a total extension of 0.5 % of the gauge length under load.
7.3 If the percentage of elongation of any test specimen is less than that specified and any part of the fracture is more than ⁄4 in.
[19.0 mm] from the center of the gauge length, as indicated by scribe marks on the specimen before testing, a retest shall be
allowed.
8. Standard Mass per Unit Length
8.1 The calculated mass per foot, based upon a specified minimum wall thickness, shall be determined by the following equation
(see Note 1):
W 5 C D 2t t (1)
~ !
where:
C = 10.69 [0.0246615],
W = mass per unit length, lb/ft [kg/m],
D = specified outside diameter, in. [mm], and
t = specified minimum wall thickness, in. [mm].
NOTE 1—The calculated masses given by Eq 1 are based on the masses for carbon steel tubing. The mass of tubing made of ferritic stainless steels may
be up to about 5 % less, and that made of austenitic stainless steel up to about 2 % greater than the values given. Mass of ferritic/austenitic (duplex)
stainless steel will be intermediate to the mass of fully austenitic and fully ferritic stainless steel tubing.
8.2 The permitted variations from the calculated mass per foot [kilogram per metre] shall be as prescribed in Table 1.
A1016/A1016M − 23
8. Permitted Variations in Wall Thickness
8.1 Variations from the specified minimum wall thickness shall not exceed the amounts prescribed in Table 21.
8.2 For tubes 2 in. [50 mm] and over in outside diameter and 0.220 in. [5.6 mm] and over in thickness, the variation in wall
thickness in any one cross section of any one tube shall not exceed the following percentage of the actual mean wall at the section.
The actual mean wall is defined as the average of the thickest and thinnest wall in that section.
Seamless tubes ±10 %
Welded tubes ±5 %
8.3 When cold-finished tubes as ordered require wall thicknesses ⁄4 in. [19.1 mm] or over, or an inside diameter 60 % or less of
the outside diameter, the permitted variations in wall thickness for hot-finished tubes shall apply.
9. Permitted Variations in Outside Diameter
9.1 Except as provided in 10.2.19.2.1, 10.39.3, and 25.10.424.10.4, variations from the specified outside diameter shall not exceed
the amounts prescribed in Table 32.
9.2 Thin-wall tubes usually develop significant ovality (out-of-roundness) during final annealing, or straightening, or both.
Thin-wall tubes are defined as those with a specified wall 3 % or less than the specified OD, or with a wall specified as 0.020 in.
[0.5 mm] or less.
9.2.1 1 The diameter tolerances of Table 32 are not sufficient to provide for additional ovality expected in thin-wall tubes, and,
for such tubes, are applicable only to the mean of the extreme (maximum and minimum) outside diameter readings in any one cross
section. However, for thin wall tubes the difference in extreme outside diameter readings (ovality) in any one cross section shall
not exceed the following ovality allowances:
A
TABLE 1 Permitted Variations in Mass Per Foot
Method of Permitted Variation in Mass
Manufacture per Foot, %
Over Under
Seamless, hot-finished 16 0
Seamless, cold-finished
1 ⁄2 in. [38 mm] and under OD 12 0
Over 1 ⁄2 in. [38 mm] OD 13 0
Welded 10 0
A
These permitted variations in mass apply to lots of 50 tubes or more in sizes 4
in. [101.6 mm] and under in outside diameter, and to lots of 20 tubes or more in
sizes over 4 in. [101.6 mm] in outside diameter.
A
TABLE 21 Permitted Variations in Wall Thickness
Wall Thickness, %
Outside 0.095 Over 0.095 Over 0.150
Over
Diameter [2.4] to 0.150 to 0.180
0.180
in. and [2.4 to [3.8 to
[4.6]
[mm] Under 3.8], incl 4.6], incl
Over Under Over Under Over Under Over Under
Seamless, Hot-Finished Tubes
4 [100] 40 0 35 0 33 0 28 0
and
under
Over 4 . . . . . . 35 0 33 0 28 0
[100]
Seamless, Cold-Finished Tubes
Over Under
1 ⁄2 [38.1] and under 20 0
Over 1 ⁄2 [38.1] 22 0
Welded Tubes
All sizes 18 0
A
These permitted variations in wall thickness apply only to tubes, except
internal-upset tubes, as rolled or cold-finished, and before swaging, expanding,
bending, polishing, or other fabricating operations.
A1016/A1016M − 23
A
TABLE 32 Permitted Variations in Outside Diameter
Specified Outside Diameter, Permitted Variations, in. [mm]
in. [mm] Over Under
Hot-Finished Seamless Tubes
1 1
4 [100] or under ⁄64 [0.4] ⁄32 [0.8]
1 1 3
Over 4 to 7 ⁄2 [100 to 200], incl ⁄64 [0.4] ⁄64 [1.2]
1 1 1
Over 7 ⁄2 to 9 [200 to 225], incl ⁄64 [0.4] ⁄16 [1.6]
Welded Tubes and Cold-Finished Seamless Tubes
Under 1 [25] 0.004 [0.1] 0.004 [0.11]
1 to 1 ⁄2 [25 to 40], incl 0.006 [0.15] 0.006 [0.15]
Over 1 ⁄2 to 2 [40 to 50], excl 0.008 [0.2] 0.008 [0.2]
2 to 2 ⁄2 [50 to 65], excl 0.010 [0.25] 0.010 [0.25]
2 ⁄2 to 3 [65 to 75], excl 0.012 [0.3] 0.012 [0.3]
3 to 4 [75 to 100], incl 0.015 [0.38] 0.015 [0.38]
Over 4 to 7 ⁄2 [100 to 200], incl 0.015 [0.38] 0.025 [0.64]
Over 7 ⁄2 to 9 [200 to 225], incl 0.015 [0.38] 0.045 [1.14]
A
Except as provided in 10.29.2 and 10.39.3, these permitted variations include
out-of-roundness. These permitted variations in outside diameter apply to hot-
finished seamless, welded and cold-finished seamless tubes before other fabri-
cating operations such as upsetting, swaging, expanding, bending, or polishing.
Outside Diameter, in. [mm] Ovality Allowance
1 [25.4] and under 0.020 [0.5]
Over 1 [25.4] 2.0 % of specified outside
diameter
9.3 For cold-finished seamless austenitic and ferritic/austenitic tubes, an ovality allowance is necessary for all sizes less than 2 in.
[50.8 mm] outside diameter, because they are likely to become out of round during their final heat treatment. For such tubes, the
maximum and minimum outside diameter at any cross section shall not deviate from the nominal diameter by more than 60.010
in. [60.25 mm]. However, the mean diameter at that cross section must still be within the given permitted variation given in Table
32. In the event of conflict between the provisions of 10.2.19.2.1 and those of 10.39.3, the larger value of ovality tolerance shall
apply.
9.4 When the specified wall is 2 % or less of the specified OD, the method of measurement is per agreement between purchaser
and manufacturer (see Note 21).
NOTE 1—Very thin wall tubing may not be stiff enough for the outside diameter to be accurately measured with a point contact method, such as with the
use of a micrometer or caliper. When very thin walls are specified, “go” – “no go” ring gauges are commonly used to measure diameters of 1 ⁄2 in. [38.1
mm] or less. A 0.002 in. [0.05 mm] additional tolerance is usually added on the “go” ring gauge to allow clearance for sliding. On larger diameters,
measurement is commonly performed with a pi tape. Other methods, such as optical methods, may also be considered.
10. Permitted Variations in Length
10.1 Variations from the specified length shall not exceed the amounts prescribed in Table 43.
A
TABLE 43 Permitted Variations in Length
Specified
Method of Outside Cut Length, in. [mm]
Manufacture Diameter, in. Over Under
[mm]
Seamless, hot-finished All sizes ⁄16 [5] 0 [0]
Seamless, cold-finished Under 2 [50.8] ⁄8 [3] 0 [0]
2 [50.8] or over ⁄16 [5] 0 [0]
Welded Under 2 [50.8] ⁄8 [3] 0 [0]
2 [50.8] or over ⁄16 [5] 0 [0]
A
These permitted variations in length apply to tubes before bending. They apply
to cut lengths up to and including 24 ft [7.3 m]. For lengths greater than 24 ft [7.3
m], the above over-tolerances shall be increased by ⁄8 in. [3 mm] for each 10 ft [3
m] or fraction thereof over 24 ft or ⁄2 in. [13 mm], whichever is the lesser.
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11. Permitted Variations in Height of Flash on Electric-Resistance-Welded Tubes
11.1 For tubes over 2 in. [50.8 mm] in outside diameter, or over 0.135 in. [3.44 mm] in wall thickness, the flash on the inside of
the tubes shall be mechanically removed by cutting to a maximum height of 0.010 in. [0.25 mm] at any point on the tube.
11.2 For tubes 2 in. [50.8 mm] and under in outside diameter and 0.135 in. [3.44 mm] and under in wall thickness, the flash on
the inside of the tube shall be mechanically removed by cutting to a maximum height of 0.006 in. [0.15 mm] at any point on the
tube.
12. Straightness and Finish
12.1 Finished tubes shall be reasonably straight and have smooth ends free of burrs. They shall have a workmanlike finish. It is
permitted to remove surface imperfections by grinding, provided that a smooth curved surface is maintained, and the wall thickness
is not decreased to less than that permitted by this or the product specification, or the purchase order. The outside diameter at the
point of grinding may be reduced by the amount so removed.
13. Repair by Welding
13.1 Repair welding of base metal defects in tubing is permitted only with the approval of the purchaser and with the further
understanding that the tube shall be marked “WR” and the composition of the deposited filler metal shall be suitable for the
composition being welded. Defects shall be thoroughly chipped or ground out before welding and each repaired length shall be
reheat treated or stress relieved as required by the applicable specification. Each length of repaired tube shall be examined by a
nondestructive test as required by the product specification.
13.2 Repair welding shall be performed using procedures and welders or welding operators that have been qualified in accordance
with ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section IX.
14. Retests
14.1 If the results of the mechanical tests of any group or lot do not conform to the requirements specified in the individual
specification, retests may be made on additional tubes of double the original number from the same group or lot, each of which
shall conform to the requirements specified.
15. Reheat Treatment
15.1 If the individual tubes or the tubes selected to represent any group or lot fail to conform to the test requirements, the
individual tubes or the group or lot represented may be reheat treated and resubmitted for test. Not more than two reheat treatments
shall be permitted.
16. Test Specimens
16.1 Test specimens shall be taken from the ends of finished tubes prior to upsetting, swaging, expanding, or other forming
operations, or being cut to length. They shall be smooth on the ends and free of burrs and flaws.
16.2 If any test specimen shows flaws or defective machining, it may be discarded and another specimen substituted.
17. Method of Mechanical Testing
17.1 The specimens and mechanical tests required shall be made in accordance with Test Methods and Definitions A370 or Test
Methods A1058.
17.1.1 Unless otherwise specified in the ordering requirements, Test Methods A1058 shall apply when the metric version of the
product specification is specified.
17.2 Specimens shall be tested at room temperature.
A1016/A1016M − 23
17.3 Small or subsize specimens as described in Test Methods and Definitions A370 or Test Methods A1058 may be used only
when there is insufficient material to prepare one of the standard specimens. When using small or subsize specimens, the largest
one possible shall be used.
18. Flattening Test
18.1 A section of tube not less than 2 ⁄2 in. [60 mm] in length for seamless tubes and not less than 4 in. [100 mm] in length for
welded tubes and for heavily cold-worked tubes shall be flattened cold between parallel plates in two steps. For welded tubes, the
weld shall be placed 90° from the direction of the applied force (at a point of maximum bending). During the first step, which is
a test for ductility, no cracks or breaks, except as provided for in 19.418.4, on the inside, outside, or end surfaces shall occur in
seamless tubes, or on the inside or outside surfaces of welded tubes and heavily cold-worked tubes, until the distance between the
plates is less than the value of H calculated by the following equation:
11e t
~ !
H 5 (1)
e1t/D
where:
H = distance between flattening plates, in. [mm],
t = specified wall thickness of the tube, in. [mm],
D = specified outside diameter of the tube, in. [mm], and
e = deformation per unit length (constant for a given grade of steel: 0.07 for medium-carbon steel (maximum specified carbon
0.19 % or greater), 0.08 for ferritic alloy steel, 0.09 for austenitic steel, 0.09 for duplex (ferritic/austenitic) stainless steels,
and 0.09 for low-carbon steel (maximum specified carbon 0.18 % or less)).
During the second step, which is a test for soundness, the flattening shall be continued until the specimen breaks or the opposite
walls of the specimen meet. Evidence of laminated or unsound material, or of incomplete weld that is revealed during the entire
flattening test shall be cause for rejection.
18.2 Surface imperfections in the test specimens before flattening, but revealed during the first step of the flattening test, shall be
judged in accordance with the finish requirements.
18.3 Superficial ruptures resulting from surface imperfections shall not be cause for rejection.
18.4 When low D-to-t ratio tubular products are tested, because the strain imposed due to geometry is unreasonably high on the
inside surface at the six and twelve o’clock locations, cracks at these locations shall not be cause for rejection if the D-to-t ratio
is less than 10.
19. Reverse Flattening Test
19.1 A section 4 in. [100 mm] in length of finished welded tubing in sizes down to and including ⁄2 in. [12.7 mm] in outside
diameter shall be split longitudinally 90° on each side of the weld and the sample opened and flattened with the weld at the point
of maximum bend. There shall be no evidence of cracks or lack of penetration or overlaps resulting from flash removal in the weld.
20. Reverse Bend Test
20.1 A section 4 in. [100 mm] minimum in length shall be split longitudinally 90° on each side of the weld. The sample shall then
be opened and bent around a mandrel with a maximum thickness of four times the wall thickness, with the mandrel parallel to the
weld and against the original outside surface of the tube. The weld shall be at the point of maximum bend. There shall be no
evidence of cracks or of overlaps resulting from the reduction in thickness of the weld area by cold working. When the geometry
or size of the tubing make it difficult to test the sample as a single piece, the sample may be sectioned into smaller pieces provided
a minimum of 4 in. of weld is subjected to reverse bending.
20.2 The reverse bend test is not applicable when the wall is 10 % or more of the specified outside diameter, or the wall thickness
is 0.134 in. [3.4 mm] or greater, or the outside diameter is less than 0.375 in. [9.5 mm]. Under these conditions, the reverse
flattening test shall apply.
A1016/A1016M − 23
21. Flaring Test
21.1 A section of tube approximately 4 in. [100 mm] in length shall stand being flared with a tool having a 60° included angle
until the tube at the mouth of the flare has been expanded to the percentages specified in Table 54 without cracking or showing
imperfections rejectable under the provisions of the product specification.
22. Flange Test
22.1 A section of tube shall be capable of having a flange turned over at a right angle to the body of the tube without cracking
or showing imperfections rejectable under the provisions of the product specification. The width of the flange for carbon and alloy
steels shall be not less than the percentages specified in Table 65. For the austenitic grades, the width of the flange for all sizes
listed in Table 65 shall be not less than 15 %.
23. Hardness Test
23.1 For tubes with wall thickness 0.200 in. [5.1 mm] or over, either the Brinell or Rockwell hardness test shall be used. When
Brinell hardness testing is used, a 10-mm ball with 3000, 1500, or 500-kg load, or a 5-mm ball with 750-kg load shall be used,
at the option of the manufacturer.
23.2 For tubes with wall thickness 0.065 in. [1.65 mm] or over but less than 0.200 in. [5.1 mm], the Rockwell hardness test shall
be used.
23.3 For tubes with wall thickness less than 0.065 in. [1.65 mm], the hardness test shall not be required unless the product
specification to which the tube is produced specifically permits Vickers hardness testing for tubes of this wall thickness.
23.4 The Brinell hardness test shall, at the option of the manufacturer, be made on the outside of the tube near the end, on the
outside of a specimen cut from the tube, or on the wall cross section of a specimen cut from the tube. This test shall be made so
that the distance from the center of the impression to the edge of the specimen is at least 2.5 times the diameter of the impression.
23.5 The Rockwell hardness test shall, at the option of the manufacturer, be made on the inside surface, on the wall cross section,
or on a flat on the outside surface.
23.6 For tubes furnished with upset, swaged, or otherwise formed ends, the hardness test shall be made as prescribed in 24.123.1
and 24.223.2 on the outside of the tube near the end after the forming operation and heat treatment.
23.7 For welded or brazed tubes, the hardness test shall be made away from the joints.
23.8 When the product specification provides for Vickers hardness, such testing shall be in accordance with Test Method E92.
Each determination shall consist of the average of three readings.
TABLE 54 Flaring Test Requirements
Minimum Expansion of Inside Diameter, %
Ratio of Inside Other Ferritic
Carbon-Molybdenum
Diameter to Specified Alloy Steels and
and Austenitic Steels
A
Outside Diameter Other Stainless Steels
0.9 21 15
0.8 22 17
0.7 25 19
0.6 30 23
0.5 39 28
0.4 51 38
0.3 68 50
A
In determining the ratio of inside diameter to specified outside diameter, the
inside diameter shall be defined as the actual mean inside diameter of the material
tested.
A1016/A1016M − 23
TABLE 65 Flange Requirements
Specified Outside Diameter
Width of Flange
of Tube, in. [mm]
To 2 ⁄2 [63.5], incl 15 % of Specified Outside Diameter
1 3 1
Over 2 ⁄2 to 3 ⁄4 [63.5 to 95.2], incl 12 ⁄2 % of Specified Outside Diameter
Over 3 ⁄4 to 8 [95.2 to 203.2], incl 10 % of Specified Outside Diameter
24. Nondestructive Examination
24.1 Except as provided in 26.125.1, each tube shall be examined by a nondestructive examination method in accordance with
Practice E213, Practice E309 (for ferromagnetic materials), Practice E426 (for non-magnetic materials), or Practice E570. Upon
agreement, Practice E273 shall be employed in addition to one of the full periphery tes
...