Required Minimum Copper Content 2

[QANo1]

Regarding minimum copper content requirements for some materials in ASME Section IIA, how does everyone interpret "when copper steel is specified?"

 

[metengr]

when copper-bearing steel is specified..

 

[JStephen]

Perhaps someone can offer up more information-
Some of the old tank standards have similar wording about the copper. It says "When copper-bearing steel is specified..." but doesn't say why anyone would do that.
My understanding is that it was done for increased corrosion resistance.
But I've never actually seen copper-bearing steel specified. The closest thing I have seen is use of Corten or similar generic weathering steels.
So I'm assuming that statement is a relic of years gone by.
And perhaps this is the case in the vessel industry as well.

 

[metengr]

The use of copper as an alloying element with mass content below 0.35% increases atmospheric corrosion resistance of steel.

 

[viper3982]

Copper-bearing steel is far from gone. It's just often called by the trademark name: Monel.

 

[QANo1]

I am still not understanding why this would be in the specs for mild steel materials, such as 414G, for example, if a customer could/would simply just specify a copper-bearing steel (Monel or other) if necessary for their job. I guess I could just assume that they would want the benefit of both materials combined. If that is correct, I have my answer. Like JStephen, I have never actually seen it specified. Thanks for the replies.

 

[weldstan]

Copper bearing steel has no relation to Monel ( a nickel copper alloy). Think of copper bearing steels for use in applications where Corten would be used at somewhat lower cost.