ASTM A269 TP304 Stainless Steel Seamless Tube for Heat Exchanger
The ASTM A269 TP304 Stainless Steel Seamless Tube is a
high-performance heat transfer component tailored for a wide range
of heat exchanger applications in various industries. It merges the
outstanding corrosion resistance, favorable thermal properties, and
structural robustness of TP304 austenitic stainless steel,
rendering it an indispensable solution in rigorous environments
across chemical, food, pharmaceutical, and HVAC&R (Heating,
Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) sectors.
TP304 is an austenitic stainless steel grade distinguished by its
well-balanced alloy composition. The key alloying elements are
Chromium (Cr, 18.00–20.00%) and Nickel (Ni, 8.00–10.50%), which
together form a passive chromium oxide layer that effectively
resists corrosion. The carbon (C) content is restricted to ≤0.08%,
which helps avoid issues like carbide precipitation in many
operational environments.
Chemical Composition (%)
Element | C | Si | Mn | P | S | Cr | Ni | N |
Range | ≤ 0.08 | ≤ 0.75 | ≤ 2.00 | ≤ 0.045 | ≤ 0.030 | 18.0-20.0 | 8.0-11.0 | ≤ 0.10 |
Mechanical Properties (Annealed Condition)
| Tensile Strength | Yield Strength (0.2% Offset) | Elongation (% in 2 inch) | Hardness (Max) |
| ≥ 515 MPa | ≥ 205 MPa | ≥ 35% | 192 HB |
Equivalent Material of TP304
ASTM/AISI | UNS NO | EN | ISO | JIS | GOST |
TP304 | S30400 | 1.4301 | X5CrNi18-10 | SUS304 | 08X18H10 |
TP304 VS TP316
TP304: As a standard 18-8 chromium-nickel stainless steel, TP304 offers
excellent corrosion resistance in many general-purpose applications
involving fresh water, steam, and mild chemicals.
TP316: The key differentiating element in TP316 is the addition of 2-3%
Molybdenum (Mo). This addition significantly enhances resistance to
pitting and crevice corrosion, especially in environments
containing chlorides (such as seawater, brackish water, and certain
process chemicals) and to various acidic media including sulfuric
and acetic acids.
Selection Guideline: TP304 is an economical and effective choice for most standard heat
exchanger duties. TP316 is strongly recommended for more aggressive
environments, such as those found in coastal plants, chemical
processing, and pulp and paper industries, where the risk of
chloride-induced pitting is a concern. The decision ultimately
balances the specific process media against project lifecycle
costs.
Applications of ASTM A269 TP304 Stainless Steel Seamless Tube in
Heat Exchangers
1. Chemical Industry: Heat exchangers used in acid processing, solvent recovery, and
chemical reaction systems, where corrosion resistance is of utmost
importance.
2. Food and Pharmaceutical Sectors: Sanitary heat exchangers for pasteurization, sterilization, and
clean-in-place (CIP) systems, ensuring the purity of products.
3. HVAC&R Systems: Evaporators, condensers, and heat pumps in commercial and
residential settings, benefiting from its corrosion resistance and
thermal efficiency.
Marine and Desalination Fields: Heat exchangers in seawater cooling
systems and desalination plants, capable of withstanding harsh
saline environments.
4. Power and Energy Sector: Auxiliary heat exchangers in power plants and renewable energy
systems, contributing to efficient energy transfer and management.
