Carbon steel API 5L X42 (L290)

API 5L X42 (L290) is an API 5L compliant carbon steel grade that is widely used in oil and gas pipeline systems. Its high strength and excellent performance make it favored in pipeline engineering.

peculiarity

API 5L X42 (L290) is named for its minimum yield strength of 290 MPa and tensile strength ranges from 415-655 MPa. It has good toughness and crack resistance, suitable for use under moderate pressure and temperature conditions. The steel has excellent weldability, supports a variety of welding processes, and has certain corrosion resistance, can adapt to a variety of environments, and is a representative of high-performance pipeline materials.

dimension

The size range of API 5L X42 (L290) varies depending on the production method. The outer diameter of seamless steel pipe usually ranges from 1/2 inch (13.7 mm) to 26 inch (660.4 mm), and the wall thickness ranges from 2.77 mm to 25.4 mm. Welded steel pipes (such as LSAW or ERW) have an outer diameter of up to 100 inches (2540 mm), and wall thickness can be customized according to engineering requirements. These dimensions enable it to meet diverse requirements from small branch lines to large trunk pipelines.

Chemical composition

The chemical composition of API 5L X42 (L290) strictly follows API 5L standards, with typical components including carbon (C) ≤0.26%, manganese (Mn) ≤1.30%, phosphorus (P) ≤0.030%, sulfur (S) ≤0.030%, and silicon (Si) ≤0.45%. The low carbon content ensures its weldability, while the addition of manganese improves strength and toughness. Trace elements such as niobium (Nb), vanadium (V) or titanium (Ti) may be added to refine grains and further enhance mechanical properties. Low levels of phosphorus and sulfur reduce the risk of brittleness.

Scope of application

API 5L X42 (L290) is primarily used in pipeline delivery systems in the oil and gas industry, including onshore oil pipelines, natural gas pipelines and offshore platform pipelines. Its higher strength makes it suitable for medium and high pressure environments and is often used in long-distance energy transportation projects. In addition, it is also used in the pipeline network of petrochemical plants and the transmission pipeline of water treatment systems. Due to its balance of performance and cost, the X42 has a wide range of applications in the construction of global energy infrastructure.