. BA (Bright Annealed) Stainless Steel Tubes

Standards and Grades:

• Common Standards: ASTM A213, ASTM A269, ASTM A249, ASME BPE
• Grades: 304/304L, 316/316L, 317/317L

Manufacturing and Finishing Methods:

• Manufacturing: BA tubes can be produced through either seamless or welded processes, followed by bright annealing.
• Bright Annealing: Carried out in a controlled atmosphere (hydrogen or nitrogen) to prevent oxidation during heat treatment. To avoid any moisture that could cause oxidation, producers maintain the atmosphere at low dew points.

Characteristics:

• Surface Finish: The result is a reflective, bright, and smooth finish, free from oxides and scales.
• Corrosion Resistance: Enhanced due to the smooth, oxide-free surface.
• Surface Roughness: Ra typically below 0.8 μm.

Inspection Items:

• Tolerance of Outer Diameter & Wall Thickness: Dimensional accuracy checked according to specifications.
• Surface Roughness: A profilometer is used to measure the surface smoothness, ensuring it meets the requirements of clean industries.
• Visual and Cleanliness Inspection: Checked to ensure the bright surface is uniform and free of impurities.
• NDT: Ultrasonic or eddy current testing for weld integrity and defect detection.

Packaging Method:

• Producers individually wrap or cover BA tubes in plastic to maintain their cleanliness, preserve the bright surface, and prevent contamination or surface damage during handling.

Applications:

• Pharmaceutical and Biopharmaceutical: Due to the smooth, clean surface, BA tubes are used in sterile environments and piping systems.
• Food and Beverage: Hygienic applications where surface cleanliness is critical, especially in sanitary piping.
• High-Purity Gas Systems: BA tubes are used in systems where contaminants could affect the gas purity.