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What is the Low Fin Tube?
A low fin tube, also known as a finned tube or a finned heat exchanger tube, is a type of tube used in heat transfer applications. It is designed to increase the surface area available for heat transfer between the fluid inside the tube and the surrounding environment. The tube itself is typically made of a smooth, seamless material such as copper, stainless steel, or carbon steel. The distinguishing feature of a low fin tube is the presence of external fins that extend radially from the tube surface. These fins are usually spiral or helical in shape and are uniformly spaced along the length of the tube.
The purpose of the fins is to enhance heat transfer by increasing the surface area available for convection and radiation. The additional surface area allows for more efficient heat exchange between the fluid flowing inside the tube and the ambient air or another fluid outside the tube. The increased surface area provided by the fins can significantly improve the heat transfer rate and overall performance of the heat exchanger.
Low fin tubes are commonly used in various applications where efficient heat transfer is required, such as air conditioning systems, refrigeration units, heat recovery systems, and power plants. They are particularly useful in applications where the temperature difference between the fluid inside the tube and the surrounding environment is relatively small.
The term "low fin" refers to the relatively small height or size of the fins compared to other types of finned tubes. The specific design and dimensions of low fin tubes can vary depending on the application and desired heat transfer characteristics.
Overall, low fin tubes play a crucial role in enhancing heat transfer efficiency and are widely employed in various industries to improve the performance of heat exchange systems.
Advantages of A179 material
Excellent Heat Transfer Properties: A179 has good thermal conductivity, allowing for efficient heat transfer between the fluid inside the tube and the surrounding environment. This property is crucial for heat exchangers and condensers to maximize their performance.
Low Carbon Content: The low-carbon composition of A179 tubes makes them resistant to heat-related corrosion and oxidation. It helps to maintain the integrity and longevity of the tubes, even at high temperatures.
Seamless Construction: A179 tubes are manufactured using a seamless cold-drawn process, which ensures uniform dimensional accuracy and eliminates the risk of weak points or leaks that can occur with welded tubes. The seamless construction also improves the overall strength and reliability of the tubes.
Wide Range of Applications: A179 tubes are suitable for a variety of heat transfer applications, including heat exchangers, condensers, and similar equipment in industries such as power generation, chemical processing, oil and gas, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning).
Cost-Effective: A179 tubes are relatively cost-effective compared to some other heat exchanger tube materials, making them a popular choice for applications where cost efficiency is a key consideration.
Compliance with Standards: A179 tubes are manufactured to meet specific industry standards such as ASTM A179, ensuring consistent quality and compatibility with various heat exchanger designs and systems.
It's important to note that the selection of the appropriate material for a specific application depends on several factors, including operating conditions, fluid properties, and compatibility requirements. Consulting with a qualified engineer or heat transfer specialist is recommended to ensure the optimal material choice for a given heat transfer system.
Chemical Compositions of A179 Tubes
C | Si | Mn | P | S | Mo | Cr | V |
0.06-0.18 | / | 0.27-0.63 | ≤0.035 | ≤0.035 | / | / | / |
Mechanical Properties of A179 Tubes
Tensile Strength (Mpa) | Yield Strength (Mpa) | Elongation (%) | Hardness (HRB) |
≥325 | ≥180 | ≥35 | ≤72 |
Wall Thickness Tolerance of A179 Tubes
Seamless, Cold-Finished Tubes | ||
Outside Diameter In. (mm) | Wall thickness Tolerance % | |
Over (+) | Under (-) | |
1 ½ (38.1) and under | 20 | 0 |
Over 1½ (38.1) | 22 | 0 |
Outside Diameter Tolerance of A179 Tubes
Cold-Finished Seamless Tubes | ||
Outside Diameter In. (mm) | Permissible Variations In. (mm) | |
Over (+) | Under (-) | |
Under 1 (25.4) | 0.004 (0.1) | 0.004 (0.1) |
1 to 1 ½ (25.4 to 38.1), Incl | 0.006 (0.15) | 0.006 (0.15) |
Over 11⁄2 to 2 [38.1 to 50.8], Excl | 0.008 (0.2) | 0.008 (0.2) |
2 to 21⁄2 [50.8 to 63.5], Excl | 0.010 (0.25) | 0.010 (0.25) |
21⁄2 to 3 [63.5 to 76.2], Excl | 0.012 (0.3) | 0.012 (0.3) |
Length Tolerance of A179 Tubes
Cold-Finished Seamless Tubes | ||
Outside diameter, In.(mm) | Cut length, in. (mm) | |
Over(+) | Under(-) | |
All Sizes | 3⁄16 [5] | 0 [0] |
Under 2 [50.8] | 1⁄8 [3] | 0 [0] |
2 [50.8] and over | 3⁄16 [5] | 0 [0] |
Under 2 [50.8] | 1⁄8 [3] | 0 [0] |
2 [50.8] and over | 3⁄16 [5] | 0 [0] |
These permissible variations in length apply to tubes before bending. They used to cut lengths up to 24 ft [7.3 m]. For lengths longer than 24 ft [7.3 m], the above over-tolerances shall be increased by 1⁄8 in. [3 mm] for each 10 ft [3 m] or fraction over 24 ft or 1⁄2 in. [13 mm], whichever is the lesser. |
Hydrostatic Test Pressures of test requirements
Hydrostatic Test Pressures | |
Outside Diameter of Tube, in. [mm] | Hydrostatic Test Pressure, psi [Mpa] |
Under 1 [25.4] | 1000 [7] |
1 to 11⁄2 [25.4 to 38.1], excl | 1500 [10] |
11⁄2 to 2 [38.1 to 50.8], excl | 2000 [14] |
2 to 3 [50.8 to 76.2], excl | 2500 [17] |