Boiler Tubes

Boiler Tubes are generally classified as low- and medium-pressure boiler tubes or high-pressure boiler tubes. They can also be categorized by application, including water-wall, economizer, superheater and reheater tubes, or by material such as carbon, alloy and stainless steel.

A boiler tube is normally specified by its exact outside diameter and wall thickness and is designed for efficient heat transfer inside boiler equipment. Pipe is usually specified by nominal pipe size and schedule and is mainly used to transport water, steam or other fluids between system components.

Common causes include overheating from scale deposits or poor water circulation, corrosion, erosion, thermal fatigue, creep and flame impingement. Correct material selection, water treatment and regular inspection are essential, so buyers should work with experienced boiler tube suppliers. The National Board identifies scale-related overheating and corrosion or erosion as important causes of boiler tube damage.

Carbon steel is commonly used under moderate operating conditions, while chromium-molybdenum alloy steel is preferred for higher temperatures and pressures. Stainless steel may be selected when greater corrosion or oxidation resistance is required. When ordering from a China boiler tube factory, buyers should specify the required ASTM or ASME grade, such as ASTM A192 or ASTM A213.

Boiler tube size is defined by outside diameter, wall thickness and length rather than by one universal dimension. BAOLAI’s current ASTM A179 and A192 listings cover outside diameters from 1/4 to 4 3/4 inches (6.35–120.65 mm), wall thicknesses from 0.02 to 0.375 inches (0.51–9.53 mm), and standard lengths of 6 or 12 metres, with customized lengths available.