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Stainless Steel Pipe | 316L Cryogenic Tubing Solutions
Stainless Steel Pipe | 316L Cryogenic Tubing Solutions
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Stainless Steel Pipe | 316L Cryogenic Tubing Solutions
Product Overview
Our 316L Cryogenic Tubing Solutions are engineered to deliver unmatched performance in extreme low-temperature environments, from LNG processing (-196°C/-320°F) to aerospace cryogenic fuel systems. Manufactured under ASTM A312/ASME SA213 standards, these seamless tubes combine superior corrosion resistance, thermal stability, and leak-proof integrity. Featuring electropolished surfaces (Ra ≤0.25μm) and full traceability via Mill Test Reports (MTRs), our tubing ensures compliance with ASME B31.3 and ISO 21028 standards for cryogenic applications.
Technical Specifications
Property | 316L Cryogenic Tubing (UNS S31603) |
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Standards | ASTM A312, ASME SA213, ISO 21028 |
Material Grade | Austenitic (Low Carbon, 2-3% Molybdenum) |
Outer Diameter (OD) | 6mm – 610mm (1/4" – 24") |
Wall Thickness | 0.5mm – 40mm |
Hardness (HRB) | ≤90 |
Tensile Strength | ≥485 MPa (70,300 psi) |
Yield Strength | ≥170 MPa (24,700 psi) |
Surface Finish | Electropolished (Ra ≤0.25μm), Annealed |
Processing | Seamless, Cold-Drawn, Solution-Annealed |
For pipe schedule chart for stainless steel references or stainless steel 6 inch stove pipe retrofits, consult our technical team.
Key Attributes
- Cryogenic Durability: Maintains ductility and impact resistance at temperatures as low as -196°C, preventing brittle fracture in LNG storage and transport.
- Corrosion Resistance: 16-18% chromium and 2-3% molybdenum resist chloride-induced pitting in marine and chemical environments.
- Seamless Integrity: Zero weld seams eliminate contamination risks, critical for ultra-high-purity gas and liquid transfer.
- Customization: Tailored OD, wall thickness, and lengths (1m–12m) with pipe cutter stainless steel compatibility for precise installations.
Detailed Performance Characteristics
Tensile & Bend Strength
- Tensile Strength:
With ≥485 MPa tensile strength, these tubes withstand high-pressure cryogenic systems (e.g., LNG pipelines) without deformation. The low carbon content (≤0.03%) minimizes carbide precipitation during welding, ensuring post-weld corrosion resistance. - Bend Strength:
Cold-drawn seamless tubes retain ductility under tight-radius bends (1.5x OD), critical for compact cryogenic system layouts. Use mandrel bending tools to avoid ovality and work hardening.
Identification Methods
- Laser Etching: Permanent markings include grade ("316L"), OD, thickness, heat number, and ASTM/ASME compliance per ASTM A480.
- Certification: MTRs validate chemical composition (Cr:16-18%, Ni:10-14%, Mo:2-3%) and mechanical properties for full traceability.
Weight Calculation
Use the formula:
Example: A 150mm OD tube with 8mm wall thickness weighs ~28.4 kg/m. Download our pipe schedule chart for stainless steel for bulk calculations.
Causes of Stainless Steel Rust
Despite its corrosion resistance, rust can occur under:
- Chloride Exposure: Hypochlorite-based sanitizers or saline solutions degrade the passive chromium oxide layer, causing pitting.
- Mechanical Damage: Scratches from improper pipe cutter stainless steel techniques expose raw metal to oxidation.
- Galvanic Corrosion: Contact with carbon steel in electrolytic fluids accelerates degradation.
- Improper Welding: Excessive heat input during welding causes chromium carbide precipitation. Solution: Use argon back-purging and ER316L filler wires.
Applications
- LNG Transport: Cryogenic pipelines for liquefied natural gas (-162°C).
- Aerospace: Fuel lines for liquid hydrogen/oxygen storage.
- Pharmaceutical: Ultra-clean cryogenic fluid transfer in bioreactors.
- Industrial Heating: Stainless steel 6 inch stove pipe retrofits for high-efficiency combustion systems.
Why Choose Our Stainless Steel Tubes?
- Certified Quality: ASTM/ASME compliance with third-party inspections (ISO 9001, SGS).
- Global Supply: Competitive pricing with 15-30 day delivery for bulk orders, including stainless steel 6 inch stove pipe configurations.
- Technical Expertise: 24/7 guidance on pipe cutter stainless steel techniques and orbital welding protocols.
- Sustainability: 100% recyclable with ISO 14001-certified eco-packaging.
- Cost Efficiency: 20-30% lifecycle savings vs. carbon steel alternatives due to zero maintenance.
