What Is P265GH Steel?
P265GH is a non-alloy quality steel for pressure purposes, defined in the European standard EN 10216-2 for seamless steel tubes for pressure purposes. The designation breaks down as follows: P indicates pressure application, 265 is the minimum yield strength in MPa at room temperature, G indicates a quality steel with guaranteed properties, and H indicates suitability for elevated-temperature service. The numeric designation is 1.0425. P265GH offers a good combination of strength, toughness, formability and weldability, and is widely used for boiler and pressure piping components.
Chemical Composition
The main composition limits are carbon 0.20% max, manganese 0.80-1.40%, phosphorus 0.025% max and sulfur 0.015% max, with micro-alloying and deoxidation controlled to ensure fine grain and good weldability.
| Element | Limit (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.20 max |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.40 max |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.80 - 1.40 |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.025 max |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.015 max |
Mechanical Properties by Wall Thickness
The guaranteed room-temperature properties depend on wall thickness. For wall thickness up to 16 mm, the minimum yield strength is 265 MPa; for thickness over 16 mm up to 40 mm, it is 255 MPa. The tensile strength range is 410-530 MPa, and the minimum elongation is 22% in the transverse direction, with acceptance values applying across the standard thickness ranges.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Yield strength Rp0.2, t up to 16 mm | 265 MPa min |
| Yield strength Rp0.2, 16 mm to 40 mm | 255 MPa min |
| Tensile strength Rm | 410 - 530 MPa |
| Elongation A (transverse) | 22% min |
Toughness and Impact Requirements
P265GH must show adequate toughness to avoid brittle fracture. Charpy V-notch impact testing verifies an absorbed energy of at least 27 J at 0 °C for the relevant test direction, and the material is also required to resist brittle fracture under low-temperature service conditions where specified. The fine-grain steelmaking and low impurity limits support consistent impact values from heat to heat.
High-Temperature and Forming Behavior
P265GH maintains stable strength and microstructural uniformity in long-term service at elevated temperature, which makes it suitable for boiler applications up to about 400 °C working conditions. The steel also performs well in cold bending: 180 degree cold bending at room temperature without cracking is achievable, which simplifies the fabrication of complex components such as coils and bends.
Delivery Condition and Testing
Pipes are normally supplied in the normalized condition, indicated by N; some special requirements may call for a simulated normalizing treatment to verify the properties. Mechanical testing follows EN 10216-2, and the inspection documents normally include tensile, impact and bending test results from an accredited laboratory. Confirm the delivery condition, test certificates and supplementary requirements when ordering.
FAQ About P265GH
What does P265GH mean?
P stands for pressure application, 265 is the minimum yield strength in MPa, G is a quality grade, and H indicates suitability for elevated temperatures.
What is the yield strength of P265GH?
Minimum 265 MPa for wall thickness up to 16 mm and 255 MPa for thickness 16-40 mm at room temperature.
What is the impact energy requirement?
A minimum of 27 J Charpy V-notch energy at 0 °C, verified by impact testing.
Is P265GH weldable?
Yes. Its low carbon content and controlled chemistry give excellent weldability; standard arc processes are used with preheat as needed for thicker sections.
What is the delivery condition?
Normally normalized (N). Simulated normalizing may be requested for specific verification purposes.
What are typical applications?
Boilers, heat exchangers, pressure vessels, steam and hot water piping, and process lines in power plants, refineries and chemical plants.

