ASTM A213 T5 G Finned Tube / Embedded Finned Tube With Al1060 Fins For Power Plants
A G finned tube (also called "G-fin" or grooved finned tube) is a type of enhanced heat exchanger tube where aluminum fins are mechanically bonded to a grooved base tube for improved heat transfer and durability.
ASTM A213 T5 G Finned Tube with Al1060 Fins is a type of heat exchanger tube designed for high-temperature applications. Here's a breakdown of its components:
1. Key Features of G Finned Tubes
Grooved Base Tube
The base tube (usually carbon steel, stainless steel, or alloy steel like ASTM A213 T5) has precision-cut helical grooves on its outer surface.
The grooves provide a strong mechanical anchor for the fins.
Fin Attachment Method
Aluminum fins (e.g., Al1060) are cold-formed into the grooves under high pressure, creating a tight, gas-tight bond.
No soldering or welding is needed, reducing thermal resistance.
2. Base Tube – ASTM A213 T5
Chemical Composition (ASTM A213 T5)
Element | Composition (% Weight, Max unless specified) |
Carbon (C) | 0.15 max |
Manganese (Mn) | 0.30–0.60 |
Phosphorus (P) | 0.025 max |
Sulfur (S) | 0.025 max |
Silicon (Si) | 0.50 max |
Chromium (Cr) | 4.00–6.00 |
Molybdenum (Mo) | 0.45–0.65 |
Notes:
Low carbon content improves weldability.
Cr & Mo provide high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance.
Mechanical Properties (ASTM A213 T5)
Property | Value |
Tensile Strength | ≥ 415 MPa (60,000 psi) |
Yield Strength | ≥ 205 MPa (30,000 psi) |
Elongation (in 50 mm) | ≥ 30% (for longitudinal test specimens) |
Hardness (Brinell) | ≤ 163 HBW (typically) |
Notes:
Suitable for service temperatures up to 650°C (1,200°F).
Good creep resistance due to 5% Cr & 0.5% Mo content.
3. Comparison with Similar Grades
Grade | Cr (%) | Mo (%) | Max Temp (°C) | Key Use |
T5 | 4–6 | 0.45–0.65 | 650 | Refineries, boilers |
T9 | 8–10 | 0.90–1.10 | 700 | Higher temp/pressure |
T11 | 1.0–1.5 | 0.45–0.65 | 600 | Lower-cost alternative |
The ASTM A213 T5 G Finned Tube with Al1060 Fins is primarily used in high-temperature heat exchange applications where efficient thermal transfer, corrosion resistance, and durability are critical. Below are its main applications:
1. Power Plants & Boilers
Superheaters & Reheaters:
The Cr-Mo steel (T5) base tube withstands high-pressure steam (up to 650°C), while the Al1060 fins enhance heat transfer from flue gases.
Economizers:
Recovers waste heat from exhaust gases to preheat boiler feedwater.
2. Petrochemical & Refinery Systems
Process Heaters & Furnaces:
Resists oxidation and sulfur corrosion in refinery environments.
Waste Heat Recovery Units (WHRU):
Captures heat from exhaust streams (e.g., catalytic crackers) to improve energy efficiency.
3. Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers (ACHEs)
Condensers & Coolers:
Aluminum fins (Al1060) maximize air-side heat transfer in fin-fan coolers for hydrocarbon processing.
4. HVAC & Industrial Heating
Thermal Oil Heaters:
Used in chemical plants where precise temperature control is needed.
Drying Systems:
Efficient heat transfer for industrial drying processes.