Stainless Steel 904L Instrumentation Tubes are a high-alloy austenitic stainless steel product designed for superior corrosion resistance in the most demanding industrial environments. These tubes are known for their excellent mechanical properties, high durability, and resistance to aggressive media, making them ideal for instrumentation systems used in chemical, petrochemical, power generation, and offshore industries.
What is Stainless Steel 904L?
Stainless Steel 904L is a non-stabilized low carbon, high alloy austenitic stainless steel with additions of copper, molybdenum, and nickel. Originally developed to resist corrosion in dilute sulfuric acid, 904L offers excellent resistance to a wide range of aggressive corrosive environments. It has a higher resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion compared to conventional austenitic grades like 316L and 317L.
Key Elements in SS 904L Composition:
- Nickel (23–28%): Enhances corrosion resistance
- Chromium (19–23%): Increases oxidation and corrosion resistance
- Molybdenum (4–5%): Improves resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion
- Copper (1–2%): Provides resistance to sulfuric and phosphoric acids
- Low Carbon (≤0.02%): Minimizes carbide precipitation during welding
Properties of 904L Instrumentation Tubes
- Excellent Corrosion Resistance: Offers superior resistance to strong reducing acids and chloride-induced stress corrosion cracking.
- High Strength and Toughness: Maintains structural integrity under high pressure and temperature conditions.
- Non-Magnetic in Annealed Condition: Useful in applications requiring non-magnetic material.
- Good Weldability and Formability: Can be easily fabricated using conventional methods.
Applications of Stainless Steel 904L Instrumentation Tubes
SS 904L Instrumentation Tubes are critical in environments where precision and reliability are essential. These include:
- Chemical and Petrochemical Plants: Transporting corrosive fluids and gases.
- Oil and Gas Industry: Suitable for offshore and sour gas environments.
- Power Plants: Used in heat exchangers and condensers due to thermal resistance.
- Pharmaceuticals: Ensures sterile and contamination-free fluid transport.
- Food and Beverage Industry: Complies with hygienic standards due to non-reactive properties.
Advantages of Using 904L Instrumentation Tubes
- Resistance to Acids: Performs exceptionally well in environments with sulfuric, phosphoric, and acetic acid exposure.
- Long Service Life: Enhanced corrosion resistance reduces downtime and replacement frequency.
- Operational Safety: Maintains integrity under high-pressure conditions, ensuring leak-proof operations.
- Global Compliance: Manufactured according to international standards such as ASTM A213, ASTM B677, and DIN EN.
Manufacturing and Quality Standards
At reputable manufacturers like Metinox Overseas, 904L Instrumentation Tubes are produced with tight dimensional tolerances and superior surface finish. These tubes undergo rigorous testing, including:
- Hydrostatic Testing
- Eddy Current Testing
- PMI (Positive Material Identification)
- Ultrasonic Testing
- Intergranular Corrosion Testing
Conclusion
Stainless Steel 904L Instrumentation Tubes are a top choice for industries that demand reliable, high-performance tubing in challenging environments. Their ability to withstand highly corrosive fluids, extreme temperatures, and high pressure makes them indispensable in critical applications. Whether in offshore oil rigs or chemical processing units, 904L instrumentation tubing ensures operational efficiency, safety, and longevity.
For more information or to request a quote, contact Metinox Overseas, a trusted supplier and exporter of premium-quality Stainless Steel 904L Instrumentation Tubes.
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