ASTM A312 TP304L Stainless Steel Studded Fin Tube For Power Plant

ASTM A312 TP304L Stainless Steel Studded Fin Tube

Ⅰ. Product Overview

ASTM A312 TP304L studded fin tubes are high-performance heat transfer components designed for moderate to high temperature applications. They are ideal for environments requiring excellent corrosion resistance, fouling resistance, and effective heat transfer. These tubes are widely used in industries like power generation, chemical processing, and waste heat recovery.

The base material, ASTM A312 TP304L, is a low-carbon austenitic stainless steel, containing 18-20% chromium and 8-11% nickel. The "L" grade ensures a low carbon content (≤0.030%), enhancing weldability and minimizing intergranular corrosion, making it suitable for welding without post-weld heat treatment.

The studded fin design, featuring cylindrical pins welded to the tube's surface, promotes high turbulence for improved heat transfer while preventing fouling and plugging. This makes the tube ideal for environments with particulate accumulation or ash bridging.

Ⅱ. Chemical & Mechanical Properties

Chemical Composition:

Mechanical Properties (Base Tube):

Ⅲ. Comparison: ASTM A312 TP304L vs. ASTM A312 TP304

Carbo Content: TP304L has a lower carbon content (≤0.030%), providing superior resistance to sensitization in welded assemblies, especially under corrosive conditions. In contrast, TP304 (C ≤0.080%) has slightly higher strength but less corrosion resistance.

Weldability: TP304L is preferred for welded applications without post-weld heat treatment, thanks to its low carbon content that minimizes intergranular corrosion.

Ⅳ. Applications of ASTM A312 TP304L Studded Fin Tubes

· Power Plant Heat Recovery: Ideal for economizers and air preheaters in coal-fired and biomass boilers, requiring moderate corrosion and fouling resistance.

· Chemical Process Heat Exchangers: Used in chemical plants and petrochemical refineries handling process gases with particulates and moderate corrosivity.

· Waste-to-Energy Systems: Suitable for municipal waste incineration plants exposed to moderately corrosive flue gases.

· Industrial Boilers: Perfect for convection bank tubes in package boilers and industrial heating systems.

· Pulp & Paper Industry: Handles gases with sulfur compounds and particulate matter in heat recovery equipment.

Ⅴ. FAQs

Q1: What makes TP304L better than TP304 for welding?
TP304L’s low carbon content (≤0.030%) reduces the risk of sensitization in welded structures, which is crucial for environments where post-weld heat treatment isn’t feasible.

Q2: How does the studded fin design enhance heat transfer?
The studded fin design creates turbulence, improving convective heat transfer. While it may have less surface area than solid fins, it is more resistant to fouling and better suited for industrial applications.

Q3: What is the maximum operating temperature for these tubes?
The maximum recommended continuous service temperature is 425°C (800°F), though higher temperatures may be acceptable with proper evaluation.

Q4: Is TP304L suitable for chloride environments?
While TP304L provides excellent general corrosion resistance, it is not recommended for environments with high levels of chlorides. For these applications, TP316L may offer better resistance to pitting and stress corrosion cracking.

Q5: What are the international equivalents of ASTM A312 TP304L?