ASME B16.5 Pressure Class Guide | Synbase Steel

5-Class Pressure Profile — ASME B16.5 Quick Reference

ASME B16.5 Group 2.2 (Austenitic Stainless: F304L, F316L, F317L). Approximate maximum allowable working pressure at 100°F (38°C) baseline.

Pressure Class Max WP at 100°F (approx.) Equivalent (bar) Typical Application
Class 150~275 psi~19 barLow-pressure utility, cooling water, general process
Class 300~720 psi~50 barGeneral oil & gas process, standard chemical plant
Class 600~1,440 psi~99 barHigh-pressure process, steam, compressor lines
Class 900~2,160 psi~149 barHigh-pressure, high-temperature refinery service
Class 1500~3,600 psi~248 barVery high pressure, wellhead, subsea lines
Class 2500~6,000 psi~414 barUltra-high pressure, specialty service

Approximate reference values for Group 2.2. For verified P-T ratings across the full temperature range, consult ASME B16.5 Table 2-2.2. Ratings decrease substantially above 200°F (93°C). Duplex F51 uses a different material group with higher ambient-temperature ratings.

Class Selector — Enter your operating pressure

Carbon Steel vs. Austenitic Stainless — Class 150 / 300 Note

Class Group 1.1 Carbon Steel (A105) — 100°F Group 2.2 Stainless (F316L) — 100°F
150~285 psi~275 psi
300~740 psi~720 psi

Austenitic stainless Group 2.2 ratings at Classes 150 and 300 are marginally lower than carbon steel equivalents due to the lower ambient-temperature yield strength of austenitic grades (170 MPa minimum vs. ~250 MPa for A105). The crossover occurs at elevated temperatures, where stainless retains strength better.

EN 1092-1 PN to ASME Class — No Direct Mapping

EN 1092-1 PN Nearest ASME Class Note
PN 20Class 150Similar pressure basis; EN PN ratings are at 20°C, ASME at 100°F
PN 50Class 300Approximate only — verify at service temperature
PN 110Class 600Approximate — design codes differ
PN 150Class 900Approximate
PN 260Class 1500Approximate
PN 420Class 2500Approximate

PN and Class designations do not map 1:1. The pressure and temperature basis for each system differ. Synbase Steel can supply to either system and provide dimensional data for both on request. Contact Synbase Steel for project-specific guidance.