16Mo3 Steel Plates
EN 10028-2 Boiler & Pressure Vessel Steel for Elevated Temperature Service
Introduction
16Mo3 is a molybdenum-alloyed boiler and pressure vessel steel specified under EN 10028-2, designed for elevated temperature service in boilers, heat exchangers, and pressure equipment.
It is widely used in European-designed plants, EPC projects, and export-oriented boiler manufacturing, where EN compliance and elevated temperature strength are required.
At Sharoff Steel Suppliers, 16Mo3 plates are supplied for boiler fabrication, pressure vessels, and heat transfer equipment, with full documentation and traceability.
What is 16Mo3 Steel?
16Mo3 is a low-alloy steel containing molybdenum as the primary alloying element, which enhances:
• Strength retention at elevated temperatures
• Resistance to creep deformation
• Suitability for pressure service
• Weldability compared to higher Cr-Mo steels
It is often selected as a step-up from carbon boiler steels, where higher temperature capability is needed without moving to Cr-Mo grades.
Key Chemical Characteristics (Indicative)
| Element |
Typical % |
| Carbon (C) |
≤ 0.20 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) |
0.25 – 0.35 |
| Manganese (Mn) |
0.40 – 0.90 |
| Silicon (Si) |
≤ 0.40 |
Exact limits as per EN 10028-2. Always verify MTC.
Mechanical & Service Characteristics
• Designed for elevated temperature operation
• Better creep resistance than carbon steels
• Suitable for pressure-containing equipment
• Good weldability with standard boiler welding practices
• Compatible with Post Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT) where required
These steps are essential to maintain mechanical integrity and code compliance.
Typical Applications of 16Mo3
Boilers & Power Plants
• Boiler drums
• Headers
• Economisers
Pressure Vessels & Heat Exchangers
• Shells and heads
• Tube sheets
• Pressure components
Process & Energy
• Thermal oil heaters
• Steam generation systems
• Process heaters
Heat Treatment & Welding Considerations
16Mo3 plates are typically supplied in:
• Normalized condition
Fabrication considerations:
• Preheating recommended for thicker sections
• PWHT depending on thickness and code requirement
• Matching low-alloy welding consumables preferred
• Controlled welding procedures for pressure service
16Mo3 vs Other Boiler Steels
| Grade |
Standard |
Alloying |
Typical Use |
| A516 Gr 70 |
ASME |
Carbon-Mn |
Moderate temp |
| 16Mo3 |
EN 10028-2 |
Mo alloyed |
Elevated temp |
| SA 387 Gr 11/12 |
ASME |
Cr-Mo alloyed |
Higher temp & pressure |
16Mo3 is chosen when carbon steels reach their thermal limit, but Cr-Mo steels are not yet required.
Forms & Supply
Sharoff Steel Suppliers supplies 16Mo3 plates in:
• Plates
• Cut-to-size segments
• Thicknesses suitable for boiler and pressure vessel fabrication
All supplies include:
• Mill Test Certificates (MTCs)
• EN 10028-2 compliance
• Full heat number traceability
Procurement Checklist (Critical for Buyers)
Before ordering 16Mo3 steel plates, confirm:
• ✅ Standard: EN 10028-2
• ✅ Plate thickness and size
• ✅ Delivery condition (Normalized)
• ✅ PWHT requirement (if applicable)
• ✅ Inspection and documentation requirement
• ✅ MTC and traceability
Clear specification ensures code approval and fabrication reliability.
Why Choose Sharoff Steel Suppliers for 16Mo3?
• Experience in boiler & pressure vessel steels
• Correct understanding of EN vs ASME selection
• Reliable sourcing with full documentation
• Guidance on when to use 16Mo3 vs A516 or SA 387
• Ability to supply plates, APH pipes, and boiler steels together
We support customers where code compliance and long-term service reliability matter most.
FAQs – 16Mo3 Steel Plates
Is 16Mo3 suitable for boilers?
Yes. It is specifically designed for boiler and pressure vessel applications under EN standards.
Is 16Mo3 better than A516 Gr 70?
For higher temperature service, yes. A516 is suitable for moderate temperatures only.
Is PWHT required for 16Mo3?
PWHT depends on plate thickness, design code, and service conditions.
Conclusion
16Mo3 steel plates provide an optimal balance between temperature capability, weldability, and cost for boilers and pressure equipment operating at elevated temperatures.
At Sharoff Steel Suppliers, 16Mo3 is supplied with technical clarity, code compliance, and dependable sourcing, ensuring safe and reliable fabrication.