Classification and uses of boiler tubes

Boiler tubes play a critical role in various industries, especially in steam boilers and power generation. These tubes are essential for the safe and efficient operation of boilers, and their classification depends on their ability to withstand high temperatures and pressures. Understanding the different types of boiler tubes and their specific applications is crucial for selecting the right material for various industrial needs.

General Boiler Tubes:

These tubes are mainly used for making water wall tubes, boiling water tubes, superheated steam tubes, superheated steam tubes for locomotive boilers, large and small smoke tubes, and arch brick tubes. They are used at temperatures below 450°C. In domestic applications, these pipes are primarily made of No. 10 and No. 20 carbon steel, produced through hot-rolling or cold-drawing processes.

High-Pressure Boiler Tubes:

These tubes are used to manufacture steam boilers and pipes designed for high pressure and above. They frequently operate under high temperature and high pressure, typically above 450°C. High-pressure boiler tubes are used to make superheater tubes, reheater tubes, air guide tubes, and main steam tubes for high-pressure and ultra-high-pressure boilers. Due to exposure to high-temperature flue gas and water vapor, high-pressure boiler tubes must resist oxidation and corrosion. Thus, they require high lasting strength, excellent resistance to oxidation and corrosion, and good organizational stability.

The mechanical properties of boiler tubes are crucial for ensuring their final performance. These properties depend on the chemical composition and heat treatment process of the steel. Standards for steel pipes specify tensile properties (such as tensile strength, yield strength or yield point, and elongation), as well as hardness, toughness, and high and low temperature properties according to different usage requirements.