EN10216-5 1.4541 / TP321 / TP321H / 12X18H10T Stainless Steel
Seamless Tube
Introduction to EN10216-5 1.4541 Seamless Tube
EN10216-5 is a European standard specifying technical delivery
conditions for seamless steel tubes designed for high-temperature
and pressure applications. These tubes are critical in industries
requiring robust performance under stress, such as power
generation, petrochemical plants, and heat exchangers. The standard
ensures materials meet stringent safety and quality requirements
for pressure equipment.
Material Overview (1.4541):
1.4541, equivalent to AISI 321, is a titanium-stabilized austenitic
stainless steel. Its composition prevents chromium carbide
formation during welding, enhancing resistance to intergranular
corrosion. This makes it ideal for welded assemblies exposed to
corrosive environments.
Technical Details
Chemical Composition (wt%):
Carbon (C): ≤0.08%
Chromium (Cr): 17–19%
Nickel (Ni): 9–12%
Titanium (Ti): ≥5×C% (min. 0.30%)
Manganese (Mn): ≤2.0%
Silicon (Si): ≤0.75%
Phosphorus (P): ≤0.045%
Sulfur (S): ≤0.015%
Mechanical Properties (Room Temperature):
Tensile Strength (Rm): 500–700 MPa
Yield Strength (Rp0.2): ≥200 MPa
Elongation (A): ≥40%
Hardness: Typically ≤215 HBW
Manufacturing Process:
Production Method: Seamless tubes are formed via hot extrusion or
rotary piercing, followed by cold drawing/rolling for precision
dimensions.
Heat Treatment: Solution annealing at 1050–1100°C followed by rapid
cooling (water quenching) to dissolve carbides and restore
corrosion resistance.
Surface Finish: Smooth, scale-free surface; optional
pickling/passivation for enhanced corrosion resistance.
Testing & Quality Assurance:
Hydrostatic Testing: Pressure applied to check integrity (test
pressure calculated based on wall thickness, diameter, and material
strength).
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): Ultrasonic or eddy current testing
to detect flaws.
Mechanical Tests: Tensile, hardness, and flattening tests.
Chemical Analysis: Verification of composition via spectrometry.
Applications:
Boilers, superheaters, and heat exchangers in power plants.
Chemical processing equipment (reactors, pipelines).
Oil and gas refineries (high-temperature piping).
Aerospace and automotive exhaust systems.
Compliance & Certification:
Meets EN10216-5 requirements for pressure purposes.
Complies with EU Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) for CE marking.
Optional certifications (e.g., TÜV, Lloyd’s Register) for critical
applications.
Advantages of 1.4541 Seamless Tubes:
Superior corrosion resistance in acidic/chloride environments.
Excellent high-temperature strength (up to 600°C).
Seamless construction ensures uniformity and reliability under high
pressure.
Good weldability with minimal post-weld treatment.
