One Pipeline, Three Standards: How to Cut Through API 5L, A106 & A53 Confusion

Your pipeline project spec sheet reads like a cryptic code: API 5L X52 PSL2 or ASTM A106 Grade B or A53 Type S. Which do you choose? Each standard meets different pressures, temperatures, and regulatory regimes. Pick wrong, and you’re facing costly re-orders or compliance failures.

At Shanghai Maxmetal, we’ve eliminated the guesswork. Our integrated linepipe portfolio harmonizes API SPEC 5L, ASTM A106, and ASTM A53 into a single, streamlined supply chain—so you get the right tube for your application without drowning in technical contradictions.

The Standards Trifecta: What Each Brings to Your Project

API SPEC 5L: The Hydrocarbon Authority

When you’re moving crude or natural gas, this is your North Star. Grades from B to X100 deliver yield strengths from 35,000 to 100,000 psi. PSL2 compliance adds mandatory CVN impact testing and tighter chemistry controls—non-negotiable for sour service or arctic conditions.

ASTM A106: The High-Temperature Seamless Specialist

For refineries, power plants, and process piping above 750°F, A106 is the gold standard. Its seamless construction (Grade B & C) eliminates weld-related failure risks in thermal cycling environments. No seams, no stress concentrators, no surprises.

ASTM A53: The Versatile Workhorse

Need utility piping, structural supports, or lower-pressure fluid lines? A53’s welded (ERW) and seamless options balance cost with performance. Grades A & B cover most plant piping needs, and the option for hot-dip galvanizing provides built-in atmospheric corrosion protection.

The Maxmetal Advantage: Why Single-Source Matters

✅ Multi-Standard Versatility

Order API 5L X70, A106 Grade B, and A53 Type E from one mill source. One technical review, one quality audit, one logistics coordination—saving you 40% in procurement overhead.

✅ Temperature-Pressure Coverage

From arctic gas gathering (-46°C CVN) to superheated steam at 750°F, our portfolio spans the entire pressure-temperature envelope of international pipeline codes (ASME B31.4, B31.8, ISO 13623).

✅ Manufacturing Flexibility

Choose the optimal process for your budget and timeline:

Seamless (SMLS): For critical sour gas or high-pressure zones

ERW: Cost-effective for non-critical, large-diameter lines

LSAW: Heavy-wall options for offshore risers and river crossings

✅ Corrosion-Proof Longevity

Optional 3LPE coating delivers 50+ years of buried service life, even in aggressive soils. FBE provides high-temperature resistance for insulated lines. No coating? No problem—anti-rust oil ensures clean arrival.

✅ Bulletproof QA/QC

Every pipe undergoes automated UT flaw detection, hydrostatic pressure testing to 1.5x design pressure, and full mill traceability. We deliver zero-defect pipes or we replace them—no questions asked.

Packaging & Delivery: Arrives Job-Site Ready

We obsess over protection because a damaged pipe end delays entire spreads:

End Caps: Plastic protection on both ends prevents ID contamination

Bundle Design: Hexagonal bundles for small pipes; cushioned loose packing for large OD

Weatherproofing: Waterproof wrapping + anti-rust oil for sea voyages

Secure Loading: Wooden sleepers, steel strapping, and QC-supervised container stuffing

Shipping Options:

Truck for domestic/regional (China/Asia)

20'/40' containers for global projects

Break-bulk vessel for large-diameter orders

Delivery Docs: Mill test certificate, NDT reports, coating inspection records, and pre-loading photos—all included, no extra fees.