ASTM A312 TP316L Helical Spiral Serrated Finned Tube With SS316L
Fins For Heat Exchanger
ASTM A312 TP316L Helical Spiral Serrated Finned Tube with SS316L
Fins is a specialized type of heat exchanger tube designed for
enhanced heat transfer efficiency in demanding environments.
Here's a detailed breakdown of its components and features:
1. Base Tube – ASTM A312 TP316L
(1). Chemical Composition of ASTM A312 TP316L (Weight %)
| Element | Minimum | Maximum |
| Carbon (C) | - | 0.03% |
| Manganese (Mn) | - | 2.00% |
| Phosphorus (P) | - | 0.045% |
| Sulfur (S) | - | 0.030% |
| Silicon (Si) | - | 1.00% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.0% | 18.0% |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10.0% | 14.0% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.0% | 3.0% |
| Nitrogen (N) | - | 0.10% |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance | Balance |
Notes:
Low carbon (≤0.03%) prevents carbide precipitation during welding
(prevents sensitization).
Molybdenum (2-3%) enhances corrosion resistance, especially against
chlorides and acids.
(2). Mechanical Properties of ASTM A312 TP316L
| Property | Value (Seamless & Welded) |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | ≥485 MPa (70 ksi) |
| Yield Strength (0.2% Offset, MPa) | ≥170 MPa (25 ksi) |
| Elongation (% in 50 mm) | ≥35% (for longitudinal) |
| Hardness (Rockwell B) | ≤95 HRB (Annealed Condition) |
Notes:
Good ductility (≥35% elongation) ensures formability and
weldability.
Lower yield strength compared to carbon steel but excellent
toughness.
Annealed condition provides optimal corrosion resistance.
(3). Key Takeaways
- TP316L is ideal for corrosive & high-temperature applications
(e.g., chemical processing, marine, heat exchangers).
- Low carbon makes it suitable for welding without post-weld heat
treatment.
- Molybdenum boosts resistance to pitting/crevice corrosion.
2. Fins – SS316L (Stainless Steel 316L)
The fins are made of the same material as the base tube (SS316L)
for compatibility and corrosion resistance.
Helical Spiral Serrated Design:
Helical Spiral: Fins are wound in a continuous spiral around the
tube, increasing surface area for better heat transfer.
Serrated: Fins have notched (serrated) edges, further enhancing
turbulence and heat exchange efficiency.
3. Key Features
- Enhanced Heat Transfer: The serrated spiral fins disrupt laminar
flow, improving thermal performance.
- Corrosion Resistance: Ideal for aggressive environments (chemical
processing, marine, oil & gas).
- High-Temperature Suitability: Maintains strength and oxidation
resistance at elevated temperatures.
4. Advantages Over Plain Tubes
- Higher heat transfer efficiency in compact spaces.
- Reduced fouling due to turbulent flow induced by serrations.
- Long service life due to SS316L’s corrosion resistance.
Applications of ASTM A312 TP316L Helical Spiral Serrated Finned
Tube with SS316L Fins
This specialized finned tube is designed for high-efficiency heat
transfer in corrosive and high-temperature environments. Its SS316L
material (both tube and fins) ensures excellent resistance to
oxidation, chlorides, acids, and thermal stress, making it suitable
for demanding industrial applications.
1. Petrochemical & Oil & Gas Industry
- Heat exchangers & condensers in refineries.
- Gas cooling systems (e.g., natural gas processing).
- Waste heat recovery units (e.g., flue gas heat exchangers).
- Offshore platforms (seawater-resistant cooling systems).
Why?
Resists sulfuric acid, chlorides, and sour gas (H₂S) corrosion.
Handles high-pressure steam and hydrocarbons.
2. Power Generation (Thermal & Nuclear Plants)
- Boiler tubes & economizers (heat recovery from exhaust gases).
- Condensers & feedwater heaters.
- Nuclear reactor cooling systems (secondary loops).
Why?
High thermal conductivity with serrated fins improves efficiency.
Resists scaling and oxidation at high temperatures.
3. Chemical & Pharmaceutical Processing
- Acid cooling systems (e.g., sulfuric, hydrochloric acid).
- Solvent condensers & evaporators.
- Reactor cooling jackets.
Why?
SS316L’s Mo content (2-3%) resists pitting from aggressive
chemicals.
Low carbon prevents carbide precipitation during welding.
4. Marine & Desalination Systems
- Seawater-cooled condensers.
- Desalination plant heat exchangers.
- Shipboard cooling systems.
Why?
Excellent chloride resistance (prevents pitting/crevice corrosion).
Helical spiral fins reduce fouling from salt deposits.
5. Food & Beverage Industry
- Pasteurizers & sterilizers.
- High-temperature processing heat exchangers.
Why?
Sanitary SS316L surface (easy to clean, non-reactive).
Corrosion-resistant against acidic/alkaline food products.
6. HVAC & Refrigeration
- Industrial chillers & refrigerant condensers.
- Waste heat utilization in district heating.
Why?
Serrated fins enhance turbulence, improving heat transfer.
Resists Freon, ammonia, and brine corrosion.
7. Waste Incineration & Exhaust Gas Treatment
- Flue gas heat recovery systems.
- Air preheaters & scrubber coolers.
Why?
Withstands acidic exhaust gases (SOx, NOx, HCl).
High-temperature durability (up to ~900°C with proper grade).
