| Brand Name: | YUHONG |
| Model Number: | ASME SA213 TP316L Stainless Steel U Bend Tube |
| MOQ: | 1000kgs |
| Payment Terms: | L/C,T/T |
ASME SA213 TP316L / 1.4404 Stainless Steel Seamless Tube U Bend Heat Exchanger Tubing
ASME SA213 TP316L U-bend tubes are seamless, low-carbon austenitic stainless steel tubes, cold-formed into a tight "U" shape. The TP316L grade, with its molybdenum content and ≤0.03% carbon, offers superior resistance to pitting, corrosion, and sensitization during welding. Primarily used as the core thermal element in U-tube bundle heat exchangers, the U-bend design accommodates thermal expansion and contraction, preventing stress. These tubes are solution annealed after bending to restore material properties and are essential in demanding industries like chemical processing, refineries, and power generation for handling aggressive media at high temperatures and pressures.
Chemical Composition of ASTM A213 TP316L Stainless Steel Seamless Tube U Bend Heat Exchanger Tube %
| Grade | UNS Designation | C | M | P | S | Si | Ch | Ni | Mo | N | Nb | Ti | Other |
| TP316L | S31603 | 0.035 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0–18.0 | 10.0–14.0 | 2.00–3.00 | ... | ... | ... | ... |
Material Characteristics of TP316L
Corrosion Resistance: Excellent, especially superior to 304/304L in environments containing chlorides and other halides. The molybdenum content provides enhanced resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion.
High-Temperature Performance: Good oxidation resistance and strength at elevated temperatures (up to ~870°C / 1600°F for intermittent service, lower for continuous service).
Low Carbon (L-Grade) Advantage: As mentioned, the low carbon content is critical for components that will be welded or used in the sensitization temperature range (425-860°C / 800-1580°F). It ensures the heat-affected zone (HAZ) retains its corrosion resistance.
Mechanical properties of ASTM A213 TP316L Stainless Steel Seamless Tube U Bend Heat Exchanger Tube
Grade | Tensile Str (MPa) min | Yield Str 0.2% Proof (MPa) min | Elong (% in 50mm) min | Hardness | |
Rockwell B (HR B) max | Brinell (HB) max | ||||
316L | 485 | 170 | 40 | 95 | 217 |
Heat Treatment (Post-Bending):
U-bending is a severe cold-working operation. For TP316L, it is almost always necessary to perform a solution annealing heat treatment after bending.
Purpose: To dissolve any carbides that may have precipitated, relieve stresses induced by bending, and restore the full corrosion resistance and ductility of the material. The tube is heated to a temperature range of 1040-1150°C (1900-2100°F) and then rapidly quenched.
Why Use U-Bend Tubes?
U-bends are the core component of shell and tube heat exchangers, specifically in U-tube bundles. Their primary purpose is to allow for thermal expansion.
As the tubes heat up and cool down, they can freely expand and contract within the shell without creating destructive thermal stresses. This design eliminates the need for expansion joints in the shell.
Application
Chemical & Petrochemical Processing
Refineries
Pharmaceutical and Food & Beverage (where cleanliness and corrosion resistance are vital)
Power Generation (especially in sections handling condensate or where cooling water is aggressive)
Marine and Offshore applications (resistant to saltwater)