In determining what grade of stainless steel tubing to select many factors are taken into account. The main requirement for stainless steels is that they should be corrosion-resistant for a specified application or environment. Strength and fabrication characteristics are also taken into consideration. There are more than 60 grades of stainless steel. However, the entire group can be divided into four metallurgic classes. In determining what grade to select, additional mechanical or physical properties may also need to be considered to achieve the overall service performance requirements.
Chromium (17-25%), Nickel (8-25%); non-magnetic, not heat treatable. It can develop high strength by cold working. Additions of molybdenum (up to 7%) can increase the corrosion resistance. 300 series resist corrosion and uphold their strength at high temperatures and are easy to maintain. Type 316 contains slightly more nickel than Type 304, and 2-3% molybdenum giving it better corrosion resistance.
Typical uses: surgical applications, food, and beverage equipment, wastewater equipment, chemical equipment, architectural applications.
Straight chromium (12-18%); magnetic and can be hardened by heat treatment. Type 410 resists corrosion in mild atmospheres, steam, and mild chemical environments.
Typical uses: fasteners, machinery parts, pump shafts.
Straight Chromium (12-18%); low carbon, magnetic, but not heat treatable.
Typical uses: highly polished trim applications, food processing.
Chromium (12-28%), Nickel (4-7%); martensitic or austenitic. The typical grade 17-4 name comes from the additions 17% Chromium and 4% Nickel, it is also known as grade 630. They have high strength, relatively good ductility, and good corrosion resistance at moderate temperatures.
Typical uses: valves, gears, pump parts, bolts, saws, shafting.
Austenitic stainless steel is the largest group, making up two-thirds of the stainless steel productions. Eagle Stainless stocks 300 series stainless steel in both seamless and welded tubing for a variety of applications. If you need help ordering your tubing see these top ten tips to help with the ordering process.
There are 3 measurements for calculating stainless steel tubing dimensions: outside diameter, inside diameter, and wall thickness. A comprehensive grasp of these dimensions ensures precise selection and utilization of stainless steel tubing in diverse sectors, ranging from aerospace and automotive to medical and manufacturing industries.
Outside Diameter – (OD) The outside diameter refers to the measurement of the width across the outer surface of the tubing
Inside Diameter (ID) -The inside diameter refers to the measurement of the width across the inner surface of the tubing.
Wall Thickness – Wall thickness refers to the distance between the inner and outer diameters of the tubing
The OD defines it, the ID influences the flow, and the wall thickness ensures strength.
Precision stainless steel tubing is generally ordered by outside diameter and wall thickness. The third (ID) is theoretical.
The outside diameter is typically measured using a caliper or micrometer. It’s crucial to ensure accuracy in this measurement as it directly influences the tubing’s fit and function in various applications.
Why is it important?
The outside diameter is crucial as it determines compatibility with connectors, couplings, or other components used in the application. Choosing the right OD ensures a proper fit and functionality within the intended system or equipment.
Can the outside diameter be customized?
Many manufacturers offer custom fabrication services to meet specific OD requirements for precision tubing. Customization allows tailoring the OD to suit unique applications or specialized needs.
How does the OD impact the strength and performance?
The OD along with wall thickness, influences the tubing’s structural integrity and strength. Choosing the appropriate OD ensures the tubing can withstand pressure, load, or environmental conditions as per the application’s demands.
Wall thickness is measured using specialized tools like gauges or micrometers. This measurement ensures accuracy and consistency, vital for meeting specific application requirements.
Why is wall thickness important?
The wall thickness directly impacts the tubing’s mechanical properties, such as strength, durability, and ability to withstand pressure, corrosion, or temperature variations.
How does wall thickness affect the weight?
Generally, thicker walls increase the weight of the tubing. Understanding the relation between wall thickness and weight is essential for applications where weight considerations are critical.
What factors should be considered when determining the appropriate wall thickness for stainless steel tubing?
Factors include the working pressure, environmental conditions, intended use, installation method, and structural requirements. Balancing these factors ensures the chosen wall thickness meets the demands of the application.
How does wall thickness selection impact the bending and forming of stainless steel tubing?
Thicker walls offer more rigidity and resistance to deformation during bending or forming processes. However, thinner walls may allow for more flexibility but might be susceptible to deformation under certain conditions.
Why would an application specify a thin-walled tube?
Thin-walled tubing is often requested for applications requiring lightweight construction, increased flexibility, and improved heat transfer, or where space constraints and fluid flow efficiency are crucial
Why would an application call for heavy wall tubing?
An application might require a heavy-walled tube for increased strength, durability, high-pressure environments, or structural support.
Manufacturers strive to produce tubing as close to the specified inside diameter (ID) as possible, but variations within accepted tolerance levels are common. This is why the focus is often on the outside diameter and wall thickness, as they have a more direct impact on how the tubing fits into systems or components.
How is the ID measured?
The ID is typically measured using specialized tools like bore gauges, calipers, or micrometers. These tools ensure accuracy in determining the internal dimensions of the tubing.
Why is the inside diameter important when selecting stainless steel tubing?
The ID directly affects the flow rate, compatibility with fittings, and the ability to accommodate other components within the tubing. It’s crucial for applications where precise fluid flow, instrumentation, or specific tooling requirements are necessary.
Additionally, other factors that should be considered are alloy, temper or hardness, welded or seamless tubing, desired lengths, surface finish, straightness, and cleanliness.
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