What’s the 16Mo3 Steel?
16Mo3 is a European grade of chrome-molybdenum steel that is commonly used in the manufacturing of high-temperature pressure vessels and boilers. It is similar to 13CrMo4-5, another chrome-molybdenum steel, but with a slightly higher content of molybdenum, which provides greater strength and resistance to corrosion.
The “16” in 16Mo3 refers to the minimum content of 16% chromium, while the “Mo” indicates the addition of molybdenum. The “3” suffix indicates that the steel is suitable for elevated temperature service and has a specified minimum yield strength of 220 MPa.
The chemical composition of 16Mo3 is as follows:
– Carbon (C): 0.12-0.20%
– Manganese (Mn): 0.40-0.90%
– Phosphorus (P): 0.025% max
– Sulfur (S): 0.010% max
– Silicon (Si): 0.35% max
– Chromium (Cr): 0.30-0.35%
– Molybdenum (Mo): 0.25-0.35%
– Nickel (Ni): 0.30% max
The composition may vary slightly depending on the manufacturing process and the specific requirements of the application. However, these are the typical chemical composition ranges for 16Mo3 steel.
Some of the properties of 16Mo3 that make it suitable for use in high-temperature applications include:
1. High-temperature strength: 16Mo3 has a high yield strength of 220 MPa and a tensile strength of 440-590 MPa, which makes it strong enough to withstand high-pressure and temperature.
2. Good weldability: 16Mo3 has good welding properties, which means it can be easily welded using common welding methods.
3. Resistance to high-temperature corrosion: 16Mo3 has good resistance to high-temperature corrosion, which means it can withstand the corrosive effects of steam, gas, and other high-temperature fluids.
Overall, 16Mo3 is a popular choice for use in high-temperature applications such as boilers, pressure vessels, and heat exchangers where it is necessary to withstand high temperatures and pressures. However, its use is limited to certain industries and applications, and its suitability should be carefully evaluated and considered before selecting it for a specific application.
