ASME SA213 TP304L U-Bend Boiler Tube – Applications & Key Features
SA213 TP304L is a low-carbon austenitic stainless steel (18% Cr, 8% Ni, low C) used in U-bend boiler tubes for high-corrosion resistance and flexibility in heat exchangers.
Primary Applications
1. Heat Exchangers & Condensers
- Shell & tube heat exchangers (U-bends allow thermal expansion).
- Surface condensers in power plants (resists steam/condensate corrosion).
2. Boilers & Superheaters
- Recovery boilers (handles flue gas condensates).
- Low-pressure steam boilers (where chloride stress corrosion is a concern).
3. Petrochemical & Refining
- Reboilers, feedwater heaters (resists acidic/alkaline conditions).
- Refinery heat recovery systems (exhaust gas applications).
4. Food & Pharmaceutical Processing
- Sanitary heat exchangers (non-reactive, easy to clean).
5. Marine & Desalination
- Desalination plant tubing (resists saltwater pitting/crevice corrosion).
Why Use SA213 TP304L U-Bend Tubes?
✔ Excellent corrosion resistance (vs. carbon steel in acidic/chloride environments).
✔ Low carbon content (0.03% max) – prevents sensitization & intergranular corrosion.
✔ Good weldability – no post-weld heat treatment required.
✔ High ductility – U-bends withstand thermal expansion stresses.
✔ Oxidation resistance up to ~800°C (1472°F).
Comparison with Other Grades
| Grade | Key Features | Best For |
| TP304L | Low carbon, general corrosion resistance | Most heat exchangers, food/pharma |
| TP316L | Added Mo (2-3%), better chloride resistance | Marine, desalination, harsh chemicals |
| TP321 | Ti-stabilized, resists sensitization | High-temp exhausts, aircraft |
| TP347 | Nb-stabilized, superior creep resistance | Superheaters, high-pressure steam |
Common FAQs
1. Can TP304L handle high-pressure steam?
- Yes, but for >500°C (932°F), TP321/TP347 is preferred due to better creep strength.
2. Why U-bend instead of straight tubes?
- Absorbs thermal expansion (reduces stress on tube sheets).
- Compact design (saves space in heat exchangers).
3. How to prevent stress corrosion cracking (SCC)?
- Avoid chloride exposure >60°C (140°F).
- Use TP316L if chlorides are present.
4. What’s the max operating temperature?
- Continuous: ~800°C (1472°F) (oxidizing environments).
- For pressure service: ~425°C (797°F) per ASME limits.
5. How to inspect U-bend tubes?
- Dye penetrant (PT) for surface cracks.
- Radiography (RT) for internal defects.
- Need Custom Specifications
- Bend radius: Standard (1.5D–3D) or custom.
- Finishing: Pickling/passivation for enhanced corrosion resistance.
- Certification: EN 10204 3.1 / MTC with PMI test reports.
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SA213 TP304L Stainless Steel U Bend Boiler Tube For Hot Water Boilers and Condensers Images
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