ASTM A269 TP304 (1.4301) Stainless Steel Seamless Tube for Heat Exchanger

ASTM A269 TP304 Stainless Steel Seamless Tube for Heat Exchanger

The ASTM A269 TP304 Stainless Steel Seamless Tube is a high-performance heat transfer component tailored for a wide range of heat exchanger applications in various industries. It merges the outstanding corrosion resistance, favorable thermal properties, and structural robustness of TP304 austenitic stainless steel, rendering it an indispensable solution in rigorous environments across chemical, food, pharmaceutical, and HVAC&R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) sectors.

TP304 is an austenitic stainless steel grade distinguished by its well-balanced alloy composition. The key alloying elements are Chromium (Cr, 18.00–20.00%) and Nickel (Ni, 8.00–10.50%), which together form a passive chromium oxide layer that effectively resists corrosion. The carbon (C) content is restricted to ≤0.08%, which helps avoid issues like carbide precipitation in many operational environments.

Chemical Composition (%)

Mechanical Properties (Annealed Condition)

Equivalent Material of TP304

TP304 VS TP316

TP304: As a standard 18-8 chromium-nickel stainless steel, TP304 offers excellent corrosion resistance in many general-purpose applications involving fresh water, steam, and mild chemicals.

TP316: The key differentiating element in TP316 is the addition of 2-3% Molybdenum (Mo). This addition significantly enhances resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, especially in environments containing chlorides (such as seawater, brackish water, and certain process chemicals) and to various acidic media including sulfuric and acetic acids.

Selection Guideline: TP304 is an economical and effective choice for most standard heat exchanger duties. TP316 is strongly recommended for more aggressive environments, such as those found in coastal plants, chemical processing, and pulp and paper industries, where the risk of chloride-induced pitting is a concern. The decision ultimately balances the specific process media against project lifecycle costs.

Applications of ASTM A269 TP304 Stainless Steel Seamless Tube in Heat Exchangers

1. Chemical Industry: Heat exchangers used in acid processing, solvent recovery, and chemical reaction systems, where corrosion resistance is of utmost importance.

2. Food and Pharmaceutical Sectors: Sanitary heat exchangers for pasteurization, sterilization, and clean-in-place (CIP) systems, ensuring the purity of products.

3. HVAC&R Systems: Evaporators, condensers, and heat pumps in commercial and residential settings, benefiting from its corrosion resistance and thermal efficiency.

Marine and Desalination Fields: Heat exchangers in seawater cooling systems and desalination plants, capable of withstanding harsh saline environments.

4. Power and Energy Sector: Auxiliary heat exchangers in power plants and renewable energy systems, contributing to efficient energy transfer and management.