Introduction to API 5L X46 Spiral Pipe

API 5L X46 spiral pipe is a high-strength, welded steel pipe designed for medium-to-high-pressure oil & gas pipelines, water transmission, and industrial applications. Manufactured using the spiral submerged arc welding (SSAW) process, these pipes offer superior mechanical properties, excellent weldability, and enhanced durability.

API 5L X46 is stronger than API 5L X42 but more cost-effective than X52, making it a popular choice for energy infrastructure, offshore pipelines, and construction projects.

Why Choose API 5L X46 Spiral Pipe?

Higher strength than API 5L X42 for medium-to-high-pressure pipelines
Complies with API 5L standards for oil, gas, and water transmission
Good toughness, corrosion resistance, and weldability
Available in multiple coatings for extended service life
Widely used in petroleum, natural gas, and industrial sectors

This guide will cover API 5L X46 spiral pipe specifications, pricing, manufacturing process, key suppliers, and comparisons with other API 5L grades.

API 5L X46 Spiral Pipe Specifications & Standards

API 5L X46 spiral pipes must meet strict chemical, mechanical, and dimensional requirements to ensure high performance and reliability.

Chemical Composition Requirements

Element	Maximum Percentage (%)
Carbon (C)	0.26
Manganese (Mn)	1.4
Phosphorus (P)	0.030
Sulfur (S)	0.030

Mechanical Properties

Property	Value
Yield Strength	≥ 317 MPa
Tensile Strength	435 – 590 MPa
Elongation	≥ 20%

Dimensional Specifications

Diameter Range: Φ219mm – Φ3500mm
Wall Thickness: 6mm – 26mm
Pipe Length: 6m, 9m, 12m, or customized
End Finish: Plain end, beveled end, threaded & coupled

Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group manufactures high-quality API 5L X46 spiral pipes that meet global standards.

API 5L X46 Spiral Pipe vs. API 5L X42 & X52: Key Differences

API 5L X46 is a mid-strength steel grade, offering better mechanical properties than X42 while being more affordable than X52.

Feature	API 5L X42	API 5L X46	API 5L X52
Yield Strength (MPa)	290	317	360
Tensile Strength (MPa)	415 – 580	435 – 590	460 – 630
Application	Medium-pressure pipelines	Medium-to-high-pressure pipelines	High-pressure pipelines
Cost	Lower	Medium	Higher
Weldability	Excellent	Excellent	Good

Which One Should You Choose?

For medium-pressure pipelines → API 5L X46 is the best balance of cost and strength
For high-pressure pipelines → API 5L X52 is the better choice
For basic pipelines with lower pressure needs → API 5L X42 is more economical

Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group manufactures various API 5L grades to meet different project requirements.

API 5L X46 Spiral Pipe Price Per Ton (2025)

The price of API 5L X46 spiral pipes depends on factors like diameter, wall thickness, steel grade, and coatings. Below is an estimated wholesale price per ton for 2025:

Wall Thickness (mm)	Price Per Ton (USD)
6 – 10 mm	750−750 – 750−1,000
12 – 18 mm	1,000−1,000 – 1,000−1,300
20 – 26 mm	1,250−1,250 – 1,250−1,600

Factors Affecting Pricing

Steel Grade: Higher grades (like X52, X60) cost more.
Customization: Coatings, special dimensions, and end finishes increase the price.
Order Quantity: Bulk purchases lower costs per ton.
Shipping Costs: Prices vary depending on destination and freight charges.

Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group offers competitive pricing for bulk API 5L X46 spiral pipe orders.

Best API 5L X46 Spiral Pipe Suppliers in China

1. Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group Co., Ltd (Best for Large-Scale Projects)

27+ years of experience in SSAW pipe manufacturing
13 production lines, 400,000 tons annual capacity
Certified by API 5L, ASTM A252, GB/T9711, ISO 9001
Custom coatings available: FBE, 3LPE, and 3LPP

Location: No. 92, Jiefang East Road, Xinhua District, Cangzhou, China
Contact: Request a Quote

2. Hengyang Valin Steel Tube Co., Ltd (Best for Oil & Gas Pipelines)

Specializes in API 5L-certified SSAW pipes for energy projects
Advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) and quality control

Location: Hengyang, China
Contact: Request a Quote

Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group is a trusted supplier of API 5L X46 spiral pipes, offering global shipping and competitive pricing.

API 5L X46 Spiral Pipe Coating & Corrosion Protection

Why Is Coating Important for API 5L X46 Spiral Pipes?

API 5L X46 spiral pipes are exposed to harsh environmental conditions, including moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. Without proper protective coatings, these pipes can suffer from corrosion, mechanical wear, and reduced service life.

Applying specialized coatings improves durability, corrosion resistance, and operational efficiency, ensuring that pipelines remain functional and maintenance-free for extended periods.

Common Coating Types for API 5L X46 Spiral Pipes

Coating Type	Best For	Corrosion Resistance	Temperature Resistance	Advantages
Fusion Bonded Epoxy (FBE)	Oil & gas pipelines	High	Up to 85°C	Strong adhesion, chemical resistance, smooth surface
3-Layer Polyethylene (3LPE)	Underground pipelines	Very High	Up to 85°C	Excellent corrosion protection, high impact resistance
3-Layer Polypropylene (3LPP)	Offshore pipelines	Very High	Up to 140°C	High impact resistance, superior mechanical strength
Coal Tar Epoxy (CTE)	Marine environments	Very High	Up to 100°C	Cost-effective, effective in high-moisture areas
Galvanized Coating	Structural applications	Moderate	Up to 60°C	Affordable, suitable for general-purpose use

Choosing the Right Coating for Your Project

For underground pipelines → 3LPE or 3LPP is best
For offshore applications → 3LPP or Coal Tar Epoxy works well
For industrial water pipelines → FBE provides excellent protection

Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group offers customized coating solutions to meet specific project requirements.

How to Import API 5L X46 Spiral Pipes from China?

Step-by-Step Guide to Importing API 5L X46 Spiral Pipes

Step 1: Choose a Reliable Supplier

• Verify API 5L, ASTM, and ISO certifications
• Check production capacity and quality standards
• Request product samples and factory inspections

Step 2: Request a Quotation

• Provide pipe specifications (diameter, thickness, steel grade, coating type)
• Get pricing for FOB, CIF, or EXW terms

Step 3: Negotiate Terms & Finalize Order

• Discuss payment terms (T/T, L/C, etc.)
• Confirm production lead time and delivery schedule

Step 4: Quality Inspection & Testing

• Arrange for third-party inspection (SGS, BV, etc.)
• Ensure compliance with contract specifications

Step 5: Shipping & Customs Clearance

• Work with freight forwarders for smooth logistics
• Submit necessary customs documents (Bill of Lading, Packing List, Commercial Invoice, etc.)

Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group provides hassle-free export services, ensuring timely delivery worldwide.

Global Market Demand for API 5L X46 Spiral Pipes

Why Are API 5L X46 Spiral Pipes in High Demand?

Growing Oil & Gas Infrastructure – Demand for high-pressure, durable pipelines for crude oil, natural gas, and petroleum transport is increasing.
Water Transmission Projects – Governments and industries are investing in large-scale water pipelines for municipal supply and irrigation.
Industrial Growth – Steel pipelines are widely used in power plants, refineries, and chemical industries.
Structural & Piling Applications – SSAW pipes provide cost-effective solutions for bridges, buildings, and marine foundations.

Top Importing Regions for API 5L X46 Spiral Pipes

Region	Key Applications	Demand (%)
North America (USA, Canada)	Oil & gas pipelines, water transmission	35%
Europe (Germany, UK, France)	Industrial piping, offshore projects	20%
Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia)	Oil pipelines, desalination plants	25%
Southeast Asia (India, Indonesia)	Infrastructure, water supply	12%
Africa & Latin America	Mining, energy, construction	8%

Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group exports high-quality API 5L X46 spiral pipes to over 50 countries worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About API 5L X46 Spiral Pipes

Question	Answer
What is API 5L X46 spiral pipe used for?	Oil & gas pipelines, water transmission, offshore drilling, and industrial applications.
What is the difference between API 5L X46 and X52?	X46 has lower strength than X52, making it suitable for medium-to-high-pressure applications.
Can API 5L X46 pipes be custom-coated?	Yes, available coatings include 3LPE, 3LPP, FBE, and Coal Tar Epoxy.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for API 5L X46 pipes?	MOQ depends on the supplier, but bulk orders (50+ tons) receive better pricing.
How long does it take to manufacture API 5L X46 pipes?	Typically 15-45 days, depending on order size and specifications.
What are the payment terms for importing API 5L X46 pipes?	T/T (Telegraphic Transfer), L/C (Letter of Credit), and D/P (Documents Against Payment) are commonly used.
What sizes are available for API 5L X46 spiral pipes?	Diameters from Φ219mm to Φ3500mm, thicknesses from 6mm to 26mm.
Do API 5L X46 pipes require third-party inspection?	Yes, third-party testing and certification are recommended for X46 pipes.
Can Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group export to my country?	Yes, we export to over 50 countries worldwide.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group for API 5L X46 Spiral Pipes?

For high-quality API 5L X46 spiral pipes, Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group Co., Ltd is your best supplier in 2025!

27+ years of experience in SSAW pipe manufacturing
400,000 tons annual production capacity
Certified by API 5L, ASTM, GB/T, ISO 9001
Custom sizes, coatings, and global shipping
Competitive pricing for bulk orders

Need a bulk quote or technical consultation? Contact Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group today!