ASTM A480/A480M-08b
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ASTM A480/A480M-08b is a widely recognized standard specification that covers the requirements for stainless steel plates, sheets, and strips for general-purpose applications. This specification ensures consistent quality and performance, making it essential for manufacturers, engineers, and procurement specialists in various industries.
What is ASTM A480/A480M-08b?
ASTM A480/A480M-08b defines the chemical, mechanical, and dimensional requirements for flat-rolled stainless steel products such as plates, sheets, and strips. These products are used extensively in construction, food processing, chemical processing, aerospace, and automotive industries due to their corrosion resistance, strength, and aesthetic finish.
What Is ASTM A480's Equivalent Material?
ASTM A240 – for chromium and chromium-nickel stainless steel plate, sheet, and strip for pressure vessels and general applications.
ASTM A167 (historical) – replaced by ASTM A240 in most cases.
ASME SA480 – the ASME equivalent of ASTM A480, used in pressure vessel code applications.
ASTM A480 Type 316 = EN 1.4401 / X5CrNiMo17-12-2 (European equivalent)
ASTM A480 Type 304 = EN 1.4301 / X5CrNi18-10
ASTM A480/A480M-08b Chemical Composition
ASTM A480/A480M-08b specifies the chemical composition requirements for stainless steel plates and strips-for example, Type 304 stainless steel must contain 18–20% chromium, 8–10.5% nickel, and no more than 0.08% carbon to ensure consistent corrosion resistance and mechanical performance.
ASTM A480 Stainless steel sheet thickness
| Product Type | Typical Thickness Range |
|---|---|
| Stainless Steel Sheet | 0.5 mm (0.02 in) to 6 mm (0.24 in) |
| Stainless Steel Plate | >6 mm (0.24 in) up to 100 mm (4 in) |
What Grades Of Stainless Steel Are Covered Under ASTM A480?
ASTM A480/A480M covers general requirements for flat-rolled stainless and heat-resisting steel plate, sheet, and strip. It is applied to materials supplied under standards including ASTM A240/A240M, A263, A264, A265, A666, A693, A793 and A895. Therefore, it can cover many stainless steel families, including 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 321, ferritic, martensitic and duplex grades, provided they fall under the referenced product specifications.
What Is The Difference Between ASTM A480 And ASTM A240?
The key difference is their scope and function. ASTM A240/A240M specifies stainless and heat-resisting steel plate, sheet and strip for pressure vessels and general applications, including specific grade chemistry and mechanical requirements. ASTM A480/A480M provides the general requirements covering dimensions, tolerances, testing, surface finishes, marking and other delivery conditions. In practice, A480 is commonly used in conjunction with A240, while the product specification takes precedence if requirements conflict.
Can ASTM A480/A480M-08b Stainless Steel Be Used For Food-Grade Applications?
Yes, but ASTM A480/A480M-08b itself does not certify a stainless steel as "food grade." It establishes general requirements for flat-rolled stainless and heat-resisting steel products. Grades commonly selected for food equipment, such as 304 and 316/316L, can be suitable because of their corrosion resistance, cleanability and hygienic surfaces. Final suitability depends on the specific grade, surface finish, fabrication, cleaning chemicals, temperature and applicable food-contact regulations.
What Surface Finishes Are Available Under ASTM A480?
ASTM A480 provides multiple surface conditions depending on whether the product is sheet, strip or plate. Sheet finishes include No. 1, 2D, 2B, Bright Annealed (BA), No. 3, No. 4, No. 6, No. 7, No. 8 and TR finishes. Plate can be supplied in conditions such as annealed/descaled, blast-cleaned or pickled, and polished finishes. For example, 2B is a smooth, moderately reflective cold-rolled finish, while No. 4 is a general-purpose polished finish.
