What is the Difference Between PSL1 And PSL2 Pipes?
API 5L line pipe is available in two types: PSL 1 and PSL 2. But what is a PSL? PSL stands for Product Specification Level. PSL stands for Product Specification Level.
Pipes are used in different types of environments such as corrosive and non-corrosive. Pipes used in severely corrosive environments require materials that can withstand such process conditions. On the other hand, standard quality level pipes used for normal service will also serve the purpose.
| PARAMETER | PSL1 | PSL2 |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry: Max C for Seamless pipe | 0.28% for grades ≥ B | 0.0024 |
| Chemistry: Max C for Welded pipe | 0.26% for grades ≥ B | 0.0022 |
| Chemistry: Max P | 0.03% for grades ≥ A | 0.0003 |
| Chemistry: Max S | 0.0003 | 0.0002 |
| Carbon equivalent: | Only when purchaser specifies SR18 | Maximum required for each grade |
| PARAMETER | PSL1 | PSL2 |
|---|---|---|
| Yield strength, maximum | None | Maximum for each grade |
| UTS (Ultimate Tensile Strength) maximum | None | Maximum for each grade |
| Fracture toughness | None required | Required for all grades |
For PSL2 pipes, there are limits on the maximum yield strength and ultimate tensile strength, while for PSL1 pipes, meeting the minimum requirements is sufficient. The second mandatory requirement for PSL2 pipes is fracture toughness, which is not required for PSL1 pipes.
| PARAMETER | PSL1 | PSL2 |
|---|---|---|
| Grade Range | A25 through X70 | B through X80 |
| Size range | 0.405″ through 80″ | 4.5″ through 80″ |
| Type of ends | Plain end, Threaded end,Bevelled end special coupling pipes | Plain end |
| Seam welding | All methods: continuous welding limited to A25 | All methods: except continuous welding and laser welding |
| Electric welds: welder frequency | No minimum | kHz minimum 100 |
| Heat treatment of electric welds | Required for grades >X42 | Required for all grades (B through X80) |
PLS1 pipes are available in grades A25 to X70, while PSL2 pipes are available in grades B to X80.
PSL1 pipe is available in sizes from 0.405” to 80”, while PSL2 pipe has a minimum diameter of 4.5” and a maximum diameter of 80”.
PSL1 pipes are available in different types of ends such as plain ends, threaded ends, beveled ends, and special connecting pipes, while PSL2 pipes are available in plain ends only.
PSL1 can be manufactured using various welding methods; however, continuous welding is limited to Garde A25. For PSL2 welded pipes, other welding methods are available except continuous welding and laser welding.
The minimum welding machine frequency for PSL2 pipes is 100kHz, while there is no such limit for PLS1 pipes. All grades of PSL2 pipe require electric welding heat treatment, while for PSL1 pipe, grades X42 and above require electric welding heat treatment.
