API 5L X46 vs API 5L X52
These two grades are listed as equivalents of each other: their chemistry windows overlap and they serve the same applications. They are not always identical — check the differences below before substituting, especially in certified designs.
API 5L X46
Pipe & Tube Steel
X46 is the step between X42 and X52 in the API 5L line-pipe ladder — less famous than either neighbour, but written into many existing flowline and gathering specifications, especially in the Americas, where its 46 ksi yield covers medium-pressure oil and gas service.
Standards: DIN L320 (near) · AISI API 5L X46 (PSL2) · GB L320 (GB/T 9711)
API 5L X52
Pipe & Tube Steel
API 5L X52 is one of the highest-volume pipeline grades in service, covering a large share of the world’s gas transmission network. Its balance of strength, toughness and field weldability made it the default trunk-line grade for decades.
Standards: DIN L360 (near) · AISI API 5L X52 (PSL2) · GB L360 (GB/T 9711)
Chemical composition compared (%)
| Element | API 5L X46 | API 5L X52 |
|---|---|---|
| C | ≤0.24 (PSL2) | ≤0.24 (PSL2) |
| Si | ≤0.45 | ≤0.45 |
| Mn | ≤1.40 (PSL2) | ≤1.40 (PSL2) |
| P | ≤0.025 | ≤0.025 |
| S | ≤0.015 | ≤0.015 |
Properties compared
| Property | API 5L X46 | API 5L X52 |
|---|---|---|
| Yield strength | ≥320 MPa (46,400 psi) | ≥360 MPa (52,000 psi) |
| Tensile strength | 435–760 MPa (PSL2) | 460–760 MPa (PSL2) |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ | 7.85 g/cm³ |
Sourcing either grade?
Nasteel stocks both families from Shenzhen with EN 10204 3.1 mill certificates by heat number.
Ask for a quotationSee full data sheets: API 5L X46 · API 5L X52. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.