Introduction of BA Stainless Steel Tube
BA Stainless Steel Tube, known for its excellent surface finish,
cleanliness, and high dimensional accuracy, is essential for
industries requiring ultra-clean, high-purity conditions. These
include sectors like biopharmaceuticals, semiconductors, liquid
crystal displays (LCD), solar photovoltaic systems, and other
high-tech fields. BA tubing undergoes a vacuum or controlled
atmosphere heat treatment, producing a bright, reflective surface
without oxidation, making it ideal for applications that require
purity and corrosion resistance.
Materials and Standards of BA Stainless Steel Tube
Manufacturers typically use 304 and 316L stainless steels to
produce BA stainless steel tubes, ensuring excellent corrosion
resistance, strength, and versatility. These tubes adhere to
various international standards, such as:
- ASTM A249, ASTM A269, ASTM A270, 3A, and BPE standards for the US.
- JIS G3447 and G3459 for Japan.
Manufacturing Process of BA Stainless Steel Tube
BA Stainless Steel Tube is primarily cold-rolled, offering high
dimensional precision (up to 0.2%) and superior surface quality (Ra
< 0.45 µm). Unlike polished tubes, the inner surface of BA
tubing retains its smoothness, thanks to the advanced annealing
process. Raw materials must comply with ASTM A269; in some cases,
double-melted steel is employed for enhanced purity.
Characteristics of BA Stainless Steel Tube
BA Stainless Steel Tube is highly prized for its exceptional
dimensional accuracy, smooth surface, and cleanliness. Moreover,
their inner surface is softer than polished alternatives, making
them ideal for ultra-clean applications. Additionally, the process
ensures high precision, with dimensional accuracy reaching up to
±0.05 mm and surface roughness (Ra) approaching 0.4 µm.
Heat Treatment (Bright Annealing)
The heat treatment process, or bright annealing, occurs in a
reducing atmosphere, where oxygen is minimized to prevent
oxidation. This controlled environment maintains the tube’s smooth,
reflective surface and optimizes its mechanical properties. As a
result, the tubes are free of scale and, therefore, do not require
further pickling or passivation.
Cleaning and Inspection of BA Stainless Steel Tube
Before leaving the production facility, BA tubes undergo an
extensive cleaning process. Ultrasonic cleaning with degreasing
agents like SC2286 removes oils and contaminants, ensuring
ultra-clean surfaces are suitable for high-purity environments.
Inspections involve methods like eddy current testing and hydraulic
pressure tests to guarantee the absence of defects.
Finishing and Packaging of BA Stainless Steel Tube
After production, BA stainless steel tubes are straightened, cut to
precise lengths, and polished to remove minor imperfections.
Packaging typically includes several protective layers, such as PE
bags, end caps, and anti-static materials, ensuring the tubes
remain contamination-free during transport and storage.
Applications of BA Stainless Steel Tube
BA stainless steel tubes find extensive use in industries requiring
ultra-high purity gas or fluid transport. Specific industries and
applications include:
- Biopharmaceuticals
- Semiconductors
- Clean rooms and laboratories
- LCD and solar photovoltaic manufacturing
- High-purity gas systems
- WFI (Water for Injection) systems
- Compressed air and ultra-pure chemical systems
