Stainless steel tubes have gained immense popularity in various industries due to their exceptional durability, high-temperature strength, and corrosion resistance. Recently, the 317L tubes have emerged as a popular choice for industrial applications. More and more industries are adopting it for their daily operations. These tubes are gaining momentum for six key reasons.
1. Corrosion resistance
The 317L tube is the latest variant in the family of tubes and is extensively used because of its superior corrosion resistance. This tube contains a low level of carbon and a higher molybdenum content, which enhances its ability to resist corrosion. These tubes have gained particular attention for their ability to withstand harsh conditions in chemical processing plants, oil and gas refineries, and seawater applications.
2. Weldability
The 317L tube is easily weldable through conventional welding techniques due to its exceptional weldability. Carbide precipitation, which can result in weld decay, is minimized by the tube’s low carbon content. This attribute also aids in maintaining the tube’s corrosion resistance. As a result, the 317L tube is ideal for applications that necessitate weldings, such as pipework, heat exchangers, and pressure vessels.
3. Resistance to chlorides
In seawater applications, the 317l stainless steel tube is a highly resistant material against chlorides. Pitting and crevice corrosion caused by chlorides can weaken the tube and cause leaks. The tube’s high resistance to chlorides ensures that it remains durable and corrosion-free, even in harsh seawater environments.
4. Chemical resistance
The 317L stainless tube displays exceptional chemical resistance, which makes it ideal for use in the chemical processing industry. Its ability to withstand sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and phosphoric acid makes it a popular choice for chemical processing applications. The tube’s chemical resistance guarantees that it will endure and remain free of corrosion even when exposed to severe chemicals.
5. Excellent formability
The 317L steel tube is remarkably formable, making it simple to fabricate into various shapes and sizes. This feature has made it a preferred material in industries such as construction, automotive, and aerospace. The tube’s superior formability ensures that it can be customized to meet the specific requirements of each application.
6. Long–term cost savings
The excellent corrosion resistance, weldability, resistance to chlorides, chemical resistance, and formability of the 317L stainless steel lead to long-term cost savings. This tube’s corrosion resistance reduces the need for frequent maintenance and replacement, while its weldability decreases the cost of welding. Moreover, the tube’s resistance to chlorides and chemicals reduces the chance of leaks and failures, which ultimately lowers the cost of repairs and downtime. The tube’s excellent formability reduces the need for complex and expensive fabrications, resulting in significant cost savings.
In conclusion, different industries use the 317L steel tube due to its versatility and durability. It is increasingly becoming popular in harsh environments such as chemical processing plants, oil and gas refineries, and seawater applications. This tube’s superior corrosion resistance, weldability, resistance to chlorides, chemical resistance, excellent formability, and long-term cost savings make it an ideal material for these applications. Therefore, it is no surprise that the use of the 317L stainless tube is growing rapidly.