API 5L X70M PSL2 LSAW Pipe
API 5L X70M PSL2 LSAW Pipe is a high-performance, large-diameter line pipe engineered for the high-pressure transmission of oil, gas, and water. The "X70" grade represents a minimum yield strength of 485 MPa (70,300 psi) and a tensile strength of 570 MPa (82,700 psi), while the "M" suffix denotes a Thermo-Mechanical Controlled Process (TMCP), which achieves high strength and superior low-temperature toughness through controlled rolling and cooling rather than high carbon content.
Adhering to the stringent PSL2 standard, this pipe mandates mandatory Charpy V-notch impact testing-often requiring an average energy of ≥ 40J at 0∘C or −20∘C -and strictly limits the carbon equivalent (CEiiw ≤ 0.43) to ensure excellent field weldability. Produced via the Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welding (LSAW) process, these pipes typically feature thick walls (up to 50.8mm) and undergo 100% ultrasonic and radiographic inspection of the weld seam to ensure maximum structural integrity under extreme operating pressures.
Specification Table
| Item | Details |
| Standard | API Spec 5L (ISO 3183) |
| Grade | X70M (or L485M) |
| Product Level | PSL2 (Product Specification Level 2) |
| Delivery Condition | M (Thermo-mechanically rolled) |
| Welding Process | LSAW (Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welding) |
| Joint Type | Butt-welded |
| Surface Finish | Bare, Black Paint, 3LPE, 3LPP, FBE Coating |
Chemical Composition and Mechanical Properties (PSL2)
Chemical Composition (Mass Fraction % - Max)
For X70M PSL2, the chemistry is tightly controlled to maintain low carbon for weldability.
| C | Si | Mn | P | S | V | Nb | Ti | CEiiw |
| 0.12 | 0.45 | 1.70 | 0.020 | 0.010 | 0.10 | 0.05 | 0.04 | 0.43 |
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Requirement (Metric) | Requirement (US Customary) |
| Yield Strength (Rt0.5) | 485 – 635 MPa | 70,300 – 92,100 psi |
| Tensile Strength (Rm) | 570 – 760 MPa | 82,700 – 110,200 psi |
| Yield-to-Tensile Ratio | 0.93 (Maximum) | 0.93 (Maximum) |
| Elongation (Af) | Calculated based on area |
∼20-25% |
Dimensions of API 5L X70M PSL2 LSAW Pipe
| Parameter | Common Range |
| Outer Diameter (OD) | 16" – 60" (406.4 mm – 1524 mm) |
| Wall Thickness (WT) | 6.4 mm – 50.8 mm |
| Length | 6m – 12.5m (Single or Double Random Length) |
| Out-of-Roundness | Pipe Ends: ≤ 1% of Diameter |
| Straightness |
≤ 0.2% of total length |
Features
Exceptional Toughness: The TMCP process provides superior resistance to crack initiation and propagation, even in cold climates.
High Yield Strength: Allows for thinner wall designs compared to lower grades, reducing overall project steel weight and cost.
Superior Weldability: The low carbon equivalent (CE) ensures that field welding can be performed with high efficiency and low risk of cold cracking.
High Dimensional Accuracy: The LSAW process (using UOE or JCOE forming) provides excellent roundness and straightness, facilitating easier alignment and fit-up in the field.
Safety & Reliability: Strictly adheres to PSL2 standards, offering a much higher level of safety for critical energy infrastructure compared to PSL1.
Testing and Requirements for PSL2 X70M Pipe
To meet the PSL2 quality standard, the following tests are mandatory:
Hydrostatic Test: 100% of pipes must be tested to a pressure that induces 90% of the yield strength without leakage.
CVN Impact Test: Mandatory for the pipe body and weld seam to ensure no brittle fracture at low temperatures ( 0∘C or lower).
DWT (Drop Weight Tear Test): Mandatory for pipes ≥ OD 20" (508mm) to verify ductile fracture arrest properties.
NDT Inspection: 100% Radiographic (X-ray) and Ultrasonic (UT) testing of the longitudinal weld seam.
Chemical Analysis: Product analysis per heat to verify CE limits and trace elements.
Guided Bend Test: To verify the ductility of the weld metal.
Applications of API 5L X70M PSL2 LSAW Pipe
High-Pressure Natural Gas Trunklines: Used for long-distance transport of natural gas from extraction sites to national grids.
Deep-Water Offshore Pipelines: The thick-walled LSAW design withstands external hydrostatic pressure and internal flow pressure.
Arctic & Cold Environment Service: Due to the "M" suffix (TMCP) and impact testing, it is ideal for regions with sub-zero temperatures.
H2S Sour Service (Special Request): When modified (Annex H), it can be used for transporting corrosive fluids containing hydrogen sulfide.
Oil Trunklines: Main artery pipelines connecting refineries and major storage terminals.
GNEE API 5L X70M PSL2 LSAW Pipe Factory

API 5L X70M PSL2 LSAW Pipe test equipments

API 5L X70M PSL2 LSAW Pipe certificate

FAQ
What is the meaning of LSAW pipe?
LSAW stands for Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welding.
In simple terms, it is a type of steel pipe made by:
Taking a thick, flat steel plate.
Bending or rolling it into a cylindrical shape.
Welding the edges together along a single straight line (longitudinal seam) using submerged arc welding technology.
Key Characteristics:
Large Diameter: Typically ranges from 16 inches to 60 inches.
Thick Walls: Can handle very thick steel, making it ideal for high-pressure use.
Usage: Primarily used for long-distance, high-pressure oil and gas pipelines or heavy structural foundations.
What is the difference between ERW and LSAW pipes?
The main differences between ERW (Electric Resistance Welding) and LSAW (Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welding) pipes are the raw material, size, and wall thickness.
Here is a quick comparison:
| Feature | ERW Pipe | LSAW Pipe |
| Raw Material | Steel Coils | Steel Plates |
| Diameter | Small to Medium (up to 24") | Large (up to 60") |
| Wall Thickness | Generally Thinner (up to 16mm) | Much Thicker (up to 50mm+) |
| Welding Method | High-frequency current (No filler metal) | Submerged Arc (Uses filler metal) |
| Best For | Low-medium pressure, utility lines | High-pressure trunklines, offshore pipes |
What does PSL2 mean on pipe?
PSL2 stands for Product Specification Level 2. It is a higher and stricter quality standard for API 5L line pipes.
In simple terms, a PSL2 marking means the pipe has:
Mandatory Toughness: It has passed impact testing (Charpy V-notch) to ensure it won't crack under high pressure or cold temperatures.
Stricter Chemistry: It has lower limits on impurities (like Sulfur and Phosphorus) and strict carbon equivalent (CE) limits for much better field weldability.
Maximum Strength Limits: Unlike PSL1, it specifies both minimum and maximum yield strengths to ensure predictable performance under stress.
Full Traceability: Every pipe can be traced back to the specific "heat" of steel from the mill.
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