What is ASTM A252 SSAW Steel Pipes?

What is the ASTM A252 standard?

ASTM A252 is a standard specification for seamless and welded carbon steel pipe piles developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). ASTM A252 is mainly used to standardize steel pipes specifically used for piling. The latest version is ASTM A252/A252M-22. This standard specifies the materials, dimensions, performance and inspection requirements of steel pipe piles used for structural support, and is applicable to engineering fields such as buildings, bridges, and docks.

Definition of ASTM A252 SSAW steel pipe

ASTM A252 SSAW steel pipe is a high-strength, spiral-welded steel pipe specifically manufactured to meet the ASTM A252 standard for structural piling applications. Designed for load-bearing use, this pipe is produced using the Spiral Submerged Arc Welding (SSAW) process, allowing for consistent quality in large diameters and extended lengths—ideal for deep foundations. American buyers prefer ASTM A252 SSAW pipes for their proven performance in construction, offering excellent structural integrity, reliable weld strength, and cost-effective installation. Commonly used in foundation piling for bridges, buildings, ports, and marine structures, these pipes are trusted for their durability in demanding soil and water environments.

Features of ASTM A252 SSAW Steel Pipe

Specifications of ASTM A252 SSAW Steel Pipe

1.Grades: ASTM A252 SSAW steel pipes are available in three grades, each with different mechanical properties:
Grade 2: Yield strength of 35,000 psi (240 MPa) minimum
Grade 3: Yield strength of 45,000 psi (310 MPa) minimum
Grade 4: Yield strength of 55,000 psi (380 MPa) minimum

2.Pipe Sizes: The diameter of ASTM A252 SSAW steel pipes typically ranges from 12 inches (DN300) to 120 inches (DN3000), allowing for flexibility in meeting the size requirements of various piling projects.

3.Wall Thickness: The wall thickness of the pipes can vary from 0.375 inches (9.5 mm) to 1 inch (25 mm), depending on the project’s specifications and the forces that the pipes need to withstand.

4.Length: SSAW steel pipes can be manufactured to a range of lengths, usually between 6 meters and 12 meters, though custom lengths can also be produced upon request.

5.Coating: To enhance corrosion resistance, ASTM A252 SSAW steel pipes are often coated with materials like epoxy, asphalt, or fusion-bonded epoxy. These coatings help extend the life of the pipes, especially in underwater or corrosive environments.

Product Name	SSAW steel pipes
Technique:	Spiral Weld (SSAW)
Usage:	Oil pipe Gas pipe Steam pipe
Specifications:	OD 219-2020mm WT 7.0-12.0mm Length: 6-12m
Material:	GRA, GRB/ Q195, Q235, Q345 10#, 20#
Surface:	1. bare 2. galvanized zinc coating 200g/m2 3. Anticorrosive coating: 3PE / 3PP / FBE / Epoxy
Pipe Ends:	plain ends beveled ends

ASTM A252 SSAW steel pipe manufacturing process

SSAW (Spiral Seam Submerged Arc Welded Steel Pipe) is a tubular product welded by submerged arc welding process.SSAW process has the advantages of fast production speed, flexible production and wide application, especially in the manufacture of large-diameter steel pipes. At present, SSAW process can produce steel pipes with a diameter of more than 3500 mm, far exceeding the production limit of seamless, ERW and LSAW processes, and meeting the growing demand of modern industry for large-size steel pipes.In addition, SSAW and SAWH pipes (Submerged Arc Spiral Welded Pipes) and HSAW pipes refer to the same product, but with different abbreviations.The production of SSAW steel pipes begins with the selection of high-quality steel coils. Subsequently, the steel coils are fed into the forming machine and formed into a spiral shape. The edges of the steel coils are welded by submerged arc welding to ensure that the welds are firm and uniform. After welding, the pipes are cooled, inspected and quality tested to ensure that they reach the required strength and durability.

Additional processes to improve performance

After completing the basic manufacturing steps, SSAW Steel pipes usually go through the following processes:
Coating: The surface of the pipe is coated with corrosion-resistant materials such as epoxy resin or asphalt to extend its service life.
Cutting: Depending on the project requirements, the pipe is cut into specific lengths, usually between 6 meters and 12 meters.
Inspection: Non-destructive testing (NDT) methods such as ultrasonic and X-ray are used to detect potential defects in welds or pipe structures.

Why Choose ASTM A252 SSAW Steel Pipe for Piling Projects？

1.High Strength
Spiral welds offer excellent load-bearing capacity, ideal for deep foundation piling.

2.Cost-Effective
SSAW pipes provide strong performance at a lower cost, perfect for large-scale use.

3.Size Flexibility
Available in various diameters and lengths to suit different project needs.

4.Corrosion Resistance
Can be coated for long-lasting use in wet or marine environments.

5.Strong Weld Quality
Uniform spiral welds ensure structural reliability and safety.

6.Versatile Applications
Widely used in buildings, bridges, and offshore piling projects.

Simply put, the ASTM A252 standard is a set of guidelines that helps ensure piling pipes are strong, the right size, properly welded, and resistant to corrosion. Think of it as a trusted checklist to make sure the steel pipes used in construction projects are safe and reliable.Among the different types of pipes, SSAW (Spiral Submerged Arc Welded) steel pipes are especially popular. These pipes are made by spirally welding steel coils together, which allows for large diameters and customizable lengths—great for building foundations, bridges, ports, and even offshore projects.Since many piling projects deal with moisture or saltwater, SSAW pipes often come with anti-corrosion coatings, like epoxy or 3-layer PE. This helps them last much longer—often decades—without rusting or weakening.In short, if you're looking for a strong, long-lasting, and cost-effective steel pipe for piling, ASTM A252 SSAW pipes are a smart and dependable choice.

ASTM A252 SSAW Steel Pipe Suppliers and Manufacturers

BAOWI Steel is a leading supplier of high-quality ASTM A252 SSAW steel pipes, designed for demanding piling projects. Our pipes offer exceptional strength, durability, and corrosion resistance, making them ideal for foundation piling, bridge construction, and marine applications. With customizable sizes, advanced anti-corrosion coatings, and competitive pricing, BAOWI Steel ensures reliable and cost-effective solutions for your construction needs. Choose BAOWI Steel for your next project and experience top-tier materials and service.If you need any help, don't hesitate to contact us!