Instrumentation tubing refers to the tubing or tubes used to connect instruments to main piping, other machinery, appliances, or plumbing equipment. It is important to pick the right type of tubing for the tasks at hand if you want to gain maximum benefit out of it. Following are some Key Factors to keep in mind while selecting the right Stainless Steel Instrumentation Tubes.
MATERIAL – While selecting tubing for your project it is very essential to pick out the correct material as it is the most important factor. Tubing is important in basic as well as complex machinery, for it to operate smoothly. One must select tubing of the material whose physical properties, tensile strength, yield strength, toughness, creep resistance, etc. are compatible with that of the principal product. Another factor to consider is the tubing material’s compatibility with the medium to be contained. Popular materials include Stainless Steel, Copper, High-Nickel alloy, Duplex Steel, etc.
TYPES – Tubes can be categorized in various ways such as;
I. Based on Dimensions – Tubes can be classified as
a. METRIC TUBES – here dimensions are specified in mm units.
b. FRACTIONAL TUBES – here dimensions are specified in inch units.
II. Based on Method of Drawing – welded & drawn or seamless.
FIT – It is important to check if the tubing dimensions match the rest of the machinery properly. Tubing’s purpose is really basic i.e. to move a product from one place to another. The tubing should be a proper fit so that there is no seepage or leak.
HARDNESS – The tubing should be softer than the materials used in the fittings. For spill-free connections, however, a certain tubing hardness must be achieved.
THICKNESS – Tubes with different wall thicknesses are available. Their pressure ratings evaluate their suitability for a given application. Thickness typically ranges from 0.028 to 0.109 inches. The wall thickness of larger tubes may be greater.
TEMPERATURE – Another factor in determining the right tubing material is the operating temperature. Tubes made of copper and aluminum are suitable for materials of low temperature. For higher temperature materials, stainless steel and carbon steel tubing are appropriate.
To ensure safety and efficiency within the structure it is essential is to select the appropriate tubing for use when developing a leak-free instrumentation system. No system competency is complete without this important element and its compatibility with all other elements.
