You should know about ASTM B167 when picking seamless pipes and tubes for hard jobs. This standard is for Inconel 600, 601, and 690. You see these materials in places like airplanes and chemical plants. ASTM B167 helps you choose materials that can take high heat and rough use. The table below shows how this standard helps you pick the right materials and checks that each batch follows strict rules.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Inconel alloys are strong and stay stable in heat. |
| Mechanical Properties | ASTM B167 makes sure materials work in tough places. |
| Application Areas | These alloys are used in planes, power plants, ships, and chemical plants. |
| Testing Compliance | Each batch is tested with Positive Material Identification (PMI) to check it is correct. |
Key Takeaways
- ASTM B167 helps you pick seamless pipes and tubes. These are made from Inconel 600, 601, and 690. They can handle high heat and tough places.
- Always check what is inside the alloy. Make sure it fits what you need. More chromium and aluminum means better protection from rust.
- Look for clear labels and papers on the pipes. This shows they follow ASTM B167 rules. It helps keep things safe and correct.
- Pipes need regular tests like pulling and water pressure tests. These tests find any problems in the pipes. This makes sure they are safe for hard jobs.
- Pick the right Inconel alloy for your job. Use Inconel 601 for very hot places. Use Inconel 600 or 690 if you need to fight chemicals.
ASTM B167 Overview
Scope
It is important to know what ASTM B167 covers. This standard gives rules for nickel-based alloys. These alloys can handle heat and do not rust easily. ASTM B167 is used when you need pipes and tubes that stay strong in tough places. Chemical plants and power stations use these pipes and tubes. The standard is only for seamless pipes and tubes. Seamless means there are no welded joints. These pipes and tubes can take more pressure. They also last longer in harsh places.
Here is a table that shows what ASTM B167 covers:
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Nickel Alloys | Nickel-chromium-aluminum, nickel-chromium-iron, nickel-chromium-cobalt-molybdenum, nickel-iron-chromium-tungsten, nickel-chromium-molybdenum-copper |
| Forms | Seamless pipe and tube |
| Applications | Corrosion and heat resistance |
ASTM B167 is used where safety and reliability are very important. European standards like EN and BS also care about quality and safety. ASTM B167 looks closely at how materials work under high pressure and heat.
Covered Alloys
ASTM B167 includes many nickel alloys. Most people use Inconel 600, 601, and sometimes 690. Each alloy has its own special strengths. Inconel 600 does not rust from sulfur and works well with strong chemicals. Inconel 601 can handle heat and does not break down easily. It is good for furnace parts. Inconel 690 is even better at stopping rust from high heat. It is used in steam generators.
The table below lists the main alloys and their properties:
| Alloy | Chemical Composition | Mechanical Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Inconel 600 | C: 0.15 max, Mn: 1.00 max, Si: 0.50 max, S: 0.015 max, Cu: 0.50 max, Fe: 6.00–10.00, Ni: 72.00 min, Cr: 14.00–17.00 | Density: 8.47 g/cm³, Melting Point: 1413°C, Tensile Strength: 95,000 Psi, Yield Strength: 45,000 Psi, Elongation: 40% |
| Inconel 601 | C: 0.10 max, Mn: 1.0 max, Si: 0.5 max, S: 0.015 max, Cu: 1.0 max, Fe: Balance, Ni: 58.0–63.0, Cr: 21.0–25.0 | Density: 8.1 g/cm³, Melting Point: 1411°C, Tensile Strength: 80,000 Psi, Yield Strength: 30,000 Psi, Elongation: 30% |
| Inconel 625 | C: 0.10 max, Mn: 0.50 max, Si: 0.50 max, S: 0.015 max, Cu: N/A, Fe: 5.0 max, Ni: 58.0 min, Cr: 20.0–23.0 | Density: 8.4 g/cm³, Melting Point: 1350°C, Tensile Strength: 135,000 Psi, Yield Strength: 75,000 Psi, Elongation: 42.5% |
The chart shows that each alloy is strong in different ways. Inconel 600 can take more pressure than welded pipes. It has about 20% more strength. This makes it a good choice for places with sulfur or strong chemicals. When you choose an alloy with ASTM B167, you match the alloy’s strengths to what you need.
ASTM B167 Requirements
Chemical Composition
You need to check the chemical composition before you choose a seamless pipe or tube. ASTM B167 sets strict limits for each alloy. These limits help you know what is inside the metal. The table below shows the main elements for Inconel 601 and Inconel 690. You can see the range for nickel, chromium, iron, aluminum, and carbon.
| Alloy | Nickel (Ni) | Chromium (Cr) | Iron (Fe) | Aluminum (Al) | Carbon (C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inconel 601 | 58.0-63.0 | 21.0-25.0 | balance | 1.0-1.7 | 0.10 max |
| Inconel 690 | 58.0 min | 27.0-31.0 | 7.0-11.0 | N/A | 0.05 max |
You see that Inconel 601 has more aluminum and chromium than Inconel 600. This makes it better at resisting oxidation. Inconel 690 has even more chromium, which helps stop rust and damage from chemicals. ASTM B167 makes sure you get the right mix for your job.
Tip: Always check the chemical composition to match the pipe or tube to your environment. More chromium and aluminum mean better protection against heat and corrosion.
Mechanical Properties
ASTM B167 tells you how strong the pipes and tubes must be. You need to look at tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation. These numbers show how much force the metal can take before it breaks or bends. The table below lists the minimum values for some common alloys.
| Condition and Size | Tensile Strength, min psi (MPa) | Yield Strength (0.2 % offset), min, psi (MPa) | Elongation in 2 in. or 50 mm or 4D min, % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inconel 602CA (UNS N06025) | 98,000 (680) | 39,000 (270) | 30 |
| UNS N06045 | 90,000 (620) | 35,000 (240) | 35 |
| Inconel 600 (UNS N06600) | 80,000 (550) | 30,000 (205) | 35 |
You want pipes and tubes that do not crack or bend under pressure. Inconel alloys keep their strength even at high temperatures. This makes them safe for places like power plants and chemical factories.
Note: High tensile and yield strength mean the pipe or tube can handle heavy loads and high pressure. Elongation shows how much the metal can stretch before it breaks.
Dimensions
You must follow the size limits in ASTM B167. The standard gives exact tolerances for outside diameter, inside diameter, and wall thickness. These tolerances help you fit pipes and tubes together without leaks or weak spots. The table below shows the limits for different sizes.
| Specified Outside Diameter, in. (mm) | Outside Diameter, in. (mm) | Inside Diameter | Wall thickness, % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 3⁄32 (2.4) | +0.002 (0.05) | -0 | 10 |
| 3⁄32 to 3⁄16 (2.4 to 4.8), excl | +0.003 (0.08) | -0 | 10 |
| 3⁄16 to 1⁄2 (4.8 to 12.7), excl | +0.004 (0.10) | -0 | 10 |
| 1⁄2 to 11⁄4 (12.7 to 31.8), incl | +0.005 (0.13) | -0 | 10 |
You need to measure each pipe and tube to make sure it fits the job. Tight tolerances mean better safety and less chance of leaks.
Surface Finish
Surface finish matters when you want pipes and tubes to last longer. ASTM B167 lists several finish types, such as annealed and pickled, bright and annealed, and electropolished. A smoother finish helps stop rust and keeps the pipe clean. The table below shows some common finishes.
| Surface Finish Type | Description |
|---|---|
| AP | Annealed & Pickled |
| BA | Bright & Annealed |
| 16 micro inch Ra | ID 0.4 micron Ra (as drawn) |
| 4 micro inch Ra | ID 0.1 micron Ra (electropolished) |
| Pickled Surface | N/A |
| Polished Surface | N/A |
A smooth surface finish helps the pipe resist corrosion and makes cleaning easier. You often see electropolished pipes in places where cleanliness is very important, like food or chemical plants.
Surface finish can change how well a pipe works. Smoother finishes help stop dirt and chemicals from sticking. This means your pipes last longer and work better.
Temperature Range, Oxidation Resistance, and Corrosion Resistance
You want pipes and tubes that can handle heat and chemicals. ASTM B167 covers alloys that work in high temperatures and tough environments. Inconel 600 resists heat and keeps its strength. Inconel 601 works well in places with high heat and stops rust from forming. Inconel 690 has more chromium, which helps fight corrosion from chemicals and steam.
| Inconel Grade | Oxidation Resistance | Corrosion Resistance |
|---|---|---|
| 600 | Solid solution strengthened | Not specified |
| 601 | Good at high temperatures | Resistant to chloride-ion stress-corrosion cracking, corrosion by high-purity water, and caustic corrosion |
You need to match the alloy to your job. If you work with steam or chemicals, pick a grade with more chromium and aluminum. This helps your pipes last longer and stay safe.
Manufacturing and Testing
Production Methods
You need seamless pipes and tubes that follow ASTM B167. First, workers pick good nickel alloys. They shape the metal into tubes with no welded joints. This makes the pipes stronger and helps them last longer.
Cold working is used to get the right size. Special machines stretch and shape the tubes. After this, the pipes are heated in a furnace from 960°C to 1040°C. They stay hot for about 15 minutes. Then, the pipes cool fast in water. This step makes the pipes stronger and tougher.
Passivation is next. It cleans off dirt and oxides from the surface. If you skip this, the pipe can get weak. Every step in making the pipe helps it work better in hot and harsh places.
Tip: Good heat treatment and cleaning help pipes work safely.
Key production steps:
- Cold working to get the right size
- Solution treatment to make pipes stronger
- Water cooling to keep strength
- Passivation to clean the pipe
Testing Procedures
You must check each pipe and tube for quality. ASTM B167 says you need many tests for strength and safety.
| Testing Procedure | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Composition Testing | Checks if the alloy mix is correct |
| Tensile Property Testing | Measures how much force the pipe can take |
| Hardness Testing | Confirms the pipe’s hardness |
| Hydrostatic/Nondestructive Electric Testing | Finds leaks or weak spots |
| Dimensional Inspection | Verifies size and thickness |
| Visual Inspection | Spots surface defects |
| Microstructure Analysis | Looks at the metal’s structure |
| Corrosion Resistance Testing | Tests how well the pipe stands up to chemicals |
You might see problems like cracks or pits. Some flaws are inside the pipe. Workers use ultrasonic and eddy current tests to find these. Hydrostatic testing checks if the pipe leaks under pressure.
| Testing Method | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Visual Inspection | Finds surface defects |
| Ultrasonic Testing | Detects inside flaws |
| Hydrostatic Testing | Checks if pipe holds pressure |
| Eddy Current Testing | Finds surface problems |
Note: Testing often keeps pipes safe for hard jobs. Always ask for test results before using pipes in important places.
Marking and Certification
Marking
You have to look at the markings on every pipe and tube. These markings tell you what you are using. Each pipe or tube must show some important things. You will see:
- The maker’s name or logo
- ASTM B167 written on it
- The alloy grade, like Inconel 600, 601, or 690
- The size and how thick it is
- A heat number or lot number
These markings can be stamped, rolled, or etched onto the pipe. You find them on the pipe’s surface. If the pipe is very small, the markings might be on a tag tied to the bundle. Clear markings help you know where the pipe came from. This keeps your project safe and follows the rules.
Tip: Always check the markings before you use any pipe or tube. This helps you avoid mistakes and makes sure you follow the rules.
Packaging
Good packaging keeps pipes and tubes safe when they are shipped or stored. ASTM B167 tells you how to pack them right. Pipes are often tied together with strong straps. Sometimes, pipes are wrapped in plastic or put in wooden boxes. This stops dirt, water, and damage.
Here is a simple checklist for packaging:
- Use strong straps to hold pipes together
- Wrap pipes in plastic or waterproof covers
- Put caps on the ends of pipes
- Use wooden boxes for extra safety
Good packaging keeps your pipes clean and ready to use. It also stops dents, scratches, and rust.
Documentation
You need to get the right papers with every ASTM B167 order. These papers show your pipes and tubes meet the rules. Look for these:
| Document Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mill Test Certificate | Shows chemical and mechanical test results |
| Certificate of Compliance | Says the product meets ASTM B167 |
| Traceability Records | Connects each pipe to its batch |
These papers help you check quality and track each pipe. Always keep these records in case you need them later.
Note: Good paperwork keeps your project safe and helps you fix problems fast if they happen.
Applications and Selection
Quality and Reliability
If you pick seamless pipes and tubes with ASTM B167, you get good quality. This standard checks if the pipes can handle heat, rust, and strong forces. These pipes go through many tests to make sure they are safe. You can trust them for hard jobs. The table below shows how ASTM B167 helps you get pipes you can count on:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| High-Temperature Resistance | Handles extreme heat, perfect for aerospace and power plants. |
| Corrosion Resistance | Fights rust and chemical damage, even in harsh places. |
| Mechanical Properties | Stays strong and flexible under heavy loads and sudden forces. |
| Regulatory Compliance | Meets global standards, making it easier for you to follow rules. |
| Versatility | Offers many alloy choices for different needs. |
Tip: Always check if your pipes and tubes follow ASTM B167. This helps stop problems and keeps your project safe.
Typical Uses
ASTM B167 pipes and tubes are used in many jobs. They work well where there is a lot of heat or strong chemicals. Here are some places you might see them:
| Application Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Industry | Handles acids, bases, and other chemicals. |
| Pulp and Paper Industry | Works in hot, wet, and corrosive steps. |
| Aerospace | Used in engines and parts that face high stress. |
| Nuclear Engineering | Stays strong in radioactive and hot settings. |
| Heat Treating Industries | Survives in furnaces and heat exchangers. |
These pipes and tubes last a long time, even in tough places.
Material Selection
Choosing the right Inconel alloy depends on your job. You need to think about heat, rust, and price. Here are some things to help you pick:
- Find out the hottest temperature your pipe will face.
- Check what chemicals or gases will touch the pipe.
- Decide how strong and bendy the pipe should be.
- Think about how easy it is to weld or shape the alloy.
- Look at the price and how long you want the pipe to last.
- Pick the alloy that fits your biggest need—heat, rust, or strength.
The table below helps you compare Inconel 600 and 601:
| Selection Factor | Inconel 600 | Inconel 601 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Service Temperature | Up to 925°C | Up to 1100°C |
| Oxidation Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Corrosion Resistance | Broad, many chemicals | Best for high-temp gases |
| Mechanical Properties | High strength | Strong at higher temps |
| Fabrication | Easy to weld and form | Needs careful welding |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Typical Applications | Chemical, marine | Furnaces, exchangers |
Note: Always pick the alloy that matches your main problem. If you need more heat protection, choose Inconel 601. If you need to fight strong chemicals, Inconel 600 or 690 may be better.
ASTM B167 tells you how to pick seamless pipes and tubes made from Inconel 600, 601, and 690. You must use this standard to make sure your projects stay safe and work well.
- Inconel pipes and tubes are used in reactors, furnaces, and heat exchangers. They face strong chemicals and very high heat in these places.
- Every batch of Inconel 601 pipes gets checked and tested for quality. Workers also make sure they can track each pipe back to its batch.
When you buy or choose these materials, always look for the right certificates and test papers.
FAQ
What does seamless mean in ASTM B167 pipes and tubes?
Seamless means the pipe or tube has no welded joints. You get a stronger product that handles more pressure. This makes it safer for tough jobs like chemical plants or power stations.
How do you check if a pipe meets ASTM B167?
You should look for clear markings on the pipe. Check the paperwork for test results and certificates. Ask for a Mill Test Certificate to see the chemical and mechanical properties.
Can you use ASTM B167 pipes in high-temperature places?
Yes, you can. These pipes work well in places with high heat. Inconel alloys keep their strength and resist rust, even in furnaces or reactors.
Why do you need to test these pipes so much?
Testing finds cracks, leaks, or weak spots. You want safe pipes that last a long time. Tests like hydrostatic and ultrasonic checks help you avoid problems later.
Which Inconel grade should you pick for chemical plants?
You should pick Inconel 600 or 690. Both resist strong chemicals and high heat. Inconel 690 has more chromium, so it fights corrosion better in harsh chemical settings.
