ASTM A312 TP304 Studded Tube For Petrochemical And Power Generation

ASTM A312 TP304 Studded Tube is a specialized type of tube made from TP304 stainless steel with studded features designed to enhance heat transfer in heat exchangers, boilers, and various other thermal management applications. The tube is manufactured in compliance with the ASTM A312 standard, which governs the manufacturing of seamless, welded, and annealed austenitic stainless steel pipes, often used in high-temperature, high-pressure environments. The studs on the tube are added to increase the surface area for better heat transfer, making these tubes ideal for applications where heat exchange efficiency is paramount.

Chemical composition:

• Chromium (Cr): 18-20%

• Nickel (Ni): 8-10.5%

• Carbon (C): ≤0.08%

• Manganese (Mn): ≤2%

• Silicon (Si): ≤1%

• Phosphorus (S): ≤0.045%

• Sulfur (S): ≤0.03%

Key Properties​:

• Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance to oxidizing environments (e.g., nitric acid, organic acids) and moderate resistance to reducing conditions.

• Temperature Tolerance: Suitable for continuous service up to 870°C (1600°F) and intermittent service up to 925°C (1700°F).

• Mechanical Strength: Tensile strength ≥515 MPa, Yield strength ≥205 MPa (per ASTM A312).

• Thermal Expansion: High coefficient (~17 μm/m·°C), necessitating design considerations in high-temperature applications.

• Surface Finish: Often pickled/passivated to enhance corrosion resistance.

Physical Properties:

• Density: ~ 8.00 g/cm³ (for TP304)
• Melting Point: Approx. 1400°C (2552°F)
• Thermal Conductivity: ~ 16.2 W/m·K (for TP304)
• Specific Heat: ~ 500 J/kg·K
• Modulus of Elasticity: ~ 190 GPa
• Thermal Expansion: ~ 17.2 × 10^-6 /°C (for TP304)

Application:

• Heat Exchangers/Boilers: Studs increase surface area for efficient heat transfer in HRSGs, waste heat recovery units, and economizers.
• Refractory Anchoring: Studs secure insulation linings in high-temperature environments (e.g., furnaces, incinerators).
• Petrochemical/Chemical Plants: Used in reformer furnaces and catalyst tubes where corrosion resistance and thermal stability are critical.
• Power Generation: Fossil fuel plants, nuclear systems, and marine exhausts leveraging TP304’s durability.
• Cryogenic Applications: Suitable for low-temperature services due to austenitic toughness.