ASTM B127 Monel 400 + ASTM A516 Gr.60 Steel Clad Plate Explosive Cladding Pressure Vessel

ASME SA516 Gr.60 Carbon Steel + ASME SB127 UNS N04400/Monel 400 Explosion Bonded Clad Plate

ASTM B127 Monel 400 + ASTM A516 Gr.60 Explosive Clad Plate is a two-layer metallurgically bonded composite material used in pressure vessel construction, consisting of:

1. Cladding layer (corrosion-resistant): ASTM B127 – Monel 400 (a nickel‑copper alloy, UNS N04400)

2. Base/backing layer (structural): ASTM A516 Grade 60 – carbon steel plate for moderate‑temperature pressure vessel service

The two layers are permanently joined by explosive cladding (explosion welding), which creates a high‑strength, wavy metallurgical bond without melting the interface.

When this clad plate is fabricated into a pressure vessel (e.g., a tank, reactor, or column), the Monel 400 side faces the corrosive process fluid, while the carbon steel provides the mechanical strength to withstand internal pressure.

Common Cladding Material Combinations (Structural Base + Corrosion-Resistant Cladding)

Purpose of using cladding materials

Choose cladding to save cost – use expensive Monel only on the corrosive surface, with cheap carbon steel providing strength. It also avoids brittle intermetallic phases, allows thick vessel walls, and is fully ASME code‑approved.

Applications

• Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) Alkylation Units (oil refineries) – the most common use.

• Seawater Heat Exchangers & Desalination vessels (where higher strength than Monel alone is needed).

• Caustic Evaporators (NaOH service).

• Sulfuric Acid Mixers (reducing acid environments).

• Sour Gas (H₂S) service with salt water – but verify NACE requirements (Monel 400 is not always recommended for very sour oilfield brines).