ASTM A179 Embedded Finned Tube with Al1100 Fins For Heat Exchanger and Condenser
ASTM A179 embedded finned tube with aluminum 1100 fins is a type of heat exchanger tube designed for efficient heat transfer in applications such as boilers, economizers, and air heaters. Here's a breakdown of its key features:
1. Base Tube Material (ASTM A179)
(1). Chemical Composition of ASTM A179
The composition is primarily low-carbon steel with tight control over impurities to ensure good weldability and corrosion resistance.
| Element | Composition (% max, unless range specified) |
| Carbon (C) | 0.06 – 0.18% |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.27 – 0.63% |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.035% |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.035% |
| Silicon (Si) | ≥ 0.10% (typically 0.10–0.35%) |
Note:
Low carbon content improves weldability and reduces brittleness.
Controlled sulfur & phosphorus enhance ductility and corrosion resistance.
No significant alloying elements (like Cr, Mo, Ni) since it’s designed for moderate-temperature service.
(2). Mechanical Properties of ASTM A179
The tubes are cold-drawn, giving them higher strength than hot-finished tubes.
| Property | Requirement |
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 325 MPa (47,000 psi) |
| Yield Strength | ≥ 180 MPa (26,000 psi) |
| Elongation (in 50 mm) | ≥ 35% (for wall thickness ≤ 0.015 in)
≥ 30% (for wall thickness > 0.015 in) |
| Hardness (Rockwell B) | Typically ≤ 72 HRB (soft temper for bending/flaring) |
Key Notes:
High elongation ensures good formability (suitable for tube expansion/flaring).
Low hardness allows for easy machining and bending.
Designed for moderate pressures and temperatures (common in condensers/boilers).
ASTM A179 tubes are optimized for heat transfer efficiency, weldability, and corrosion resistance in low-to-moderate temperature applications. The low carbon content and cold-drawn process provide a balance of strength and ductility.
2. Fin Material (Aluminum 1100)
Aluminum 1100: A commercially pure aluminum (99% Al), known for:
- Excellent thermal conductivity (~218 W/m·K)
- High corrosion resistance (forms a protective oxide layer)
- Soft and malleable, making it easy to bond
3. Embedded Fin Construction
- The fins are mechanically embedded into grooves machined into the steel tube.
- The aluminum fins are pressure-bonded into the grooves, ensuring a tight thermal connection.
- Benefits over welded or extruded fins:
- No thermal resistance from welding (better heat transfer)
- Stronger bond than wrapped fins
- Resistant to thermal cycling stresses
4. Advantages
- High heat transfer efficiency (aluminum fins enhance thermal performance)
- Corrosion-resistant (aluminum protects the steel in certain environments)
- Durable bond (embedded fins resist loosening under vibration/thermal cycling)
The ASTM A179 embedded finned tube with aluminum 1100 fins is a high-efficiency heat transfer component used in industries where enhanced thermal performance, corrosion resistance, and durability are critical. Below are its key applications, along with the reasons why this specific finned tube is chosen:
1. Heat Exchangers & Condensers
Application:
Shell-and-tube heat exchangers
Surface condensers (power plants, refrigeration)
Economizers (waste heat recovery)
Why?
Aluminum 1100 fins improve heat transfer due to high thermal conductivity (~218 W/m·K).
Embedded fins ensure a strong mechanical bond, preventing loosening under thermal cycling.
A179 steel base resists water/steam corrosion in condenser applications.
2. Boilers & Steam Generators
Application:
Waste heat boilers
Low-pressure steam generation systems
Why?
Aluminum fins increase surface area, boosting heat absorption from flue gases.
The cold-drawn A179 tube withstands moderate pressures and temperatures.
3. Air Heaters & Coolers
Application:
Air preheaters (power plants, industrial furnaces)
Forced-draft air coolers (HVAC, process industries)
Why?
Lightweight aluminum fins maximize air-side heat transfer.
Embedded construction resists fin vibration/loosening in high-velocity air streams.
4. Oil & Gas Processing
Application:
Oil coolers
Gas dehydration units
Heat recovery from exhaust gases
Why?
Aluminum 1100 resists oxidation in mildly corrosive environments.
A179 steel base handles hydrocarbon-based fluids.
5. Refrigeration & HVAC Systems
Application:
Evaporators & condensers
Chiller tubes
Why?
Aluminum’s high thermal conductivity improves refrigerant phase-change efficiency.
Low carbon steel (A179) is compatible with refrigerants like ammonia or Freon.
6. Industrial Drying Systems
Application:
Paper/textile drying cylinders
Food processing heat exchangers
Why?
Embedded fins endure mechanical stress from rotating drums.
Non-toxic aluminum suits food-grade applications.
Key Advantages Over Alternatives
| Feature | ASTM A179 + Al 1100 Embedded Fin | Welded/G-Finned Tubes |
| Heat Transfer | Excellent (direct metal-to-metal bond) | Good (welds add resistance) |
| Durability | High (fins resist vibration/thermal fatigue) | Moderate (welds may crack) |
| Corrosion Resistance | Good (Al 1100 protects steel in mild environments) | Depends on coating/weld material |
| Cost | Moderate | Higher (welding labor) |
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ASTM A179 Embedded Finned Tube with Al1100 Fins For Heat Exchanger and Condenser Images
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