You can find the applications of stainless steel capillary tubes in many industries. That’s because they offer precision, durability, and resistance in harsh conditions. Among different types of stainless steel available, Stainless Steel Capillary Tubes hold a prominent place. This guide will help you to learn everything about stainless steel capillary tubes.
What is a Stainless Steel Capillary Tube?
A Stainless Steel Capillary Tube is a small diameter tube made out of stainless steel. It has a very narrow internal passage. The inner diameter of these tubes usually range from 0.1mm to 3mm.
The design of these tubes maintain consistent internal dimensions throughout the length. The specific name “capillary” comes from their similarity to tiny blood vessels. These tubes are able to control the flow of fluids with high accuracy.
The stainless steel design provides these tubes with high corrosion resistance. You can also use them in applications under high pressure or heat. These capillary tubes can withstand extreme temperatures and aggressive chemicals. As a result, you can use them for applications that require reliability and precision.
What are the Chemical Composition and Mechanical Property?
You can find Stainless Steel Capillary Tubes in different steel grades. In most instances, it is made from 304, 316 and 321. Each grade has their unique properties for different applications. Let’s take a look at the chemical composition and mechanical properties in detail.
Chemical Composition
| Grade | C max | Mn max | Si max | Cr | Ni | Mo | Ti |
| 304 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.75 | 18-20 | 8-10.5 | – | – |
| 316 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.75 | 16-18 | 45944 | 45691 | – |
| 321 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.75 | 17-19 | 45912 | – | 5×C min |
Mechanical Properties
| Grade | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Yield Strength (MPa) | Elongation (%) | Hardness (HRB) |
| 304 | 515 min | 205 min | 40 min | 92 max |
| 316 | 515 min | 205 min | 40 min | 95 max |
| 321 | 515 min | 205 min | 40 min | 95 max |
What is the Production Process of Stainless Steel Capillary Tube?
There are few main steps in the production process of Stainless Steel Capillary Tubes. Here’s an overview of the steps in detail.
- Material Selection.
The very first step is to select the most appropriate grade of stainless steel. Manufacturers make this selection based on the intended application.
- Drawing Process.
Larger tubes will go through dies to reduce the size and diameter. This cold working process improves surface finish as well as strength.
Heat treatment will restore the ductility of Stainless Steel Capillary Tube. For that, it will draw and relieve internal stresses.
- Precision Boring.
If you need Stainless Steel Capillary Tubes with extremely small diameters, you need to go through this step. It creates the internal passage with a small diameter.
- Surface Treatment.
Tubes will go through polishing and passivation. Moreover, electropolishing will enhance corrosion resistance.
- Quality Control.
Each tube will go through quality control testing. During this process, the manufacturer will test dimensional accuracy and surface quality. They also pay attention to the performance of Stainless Steel Capillary Tube under pressure.
What are the Applications of Stainless Steel Capillary Tube?
There are quite a few applications of Stainless Steel Capillary Tube. Here are the most prominent applications out of them.
Medical field.
You can find Stainless Steel Capillary Tubes in a large number of medical devices. Surgical instruments, drug delivery systems, and blood analyzers hold a prominent place out of them. The biocompatibility of these tubes make them safe for patient contact.
Refrigeration System.
Stainless Steel Capillary Tubes are capable of controlling refrigeration flow between components. It ensures proper cooling cycle operation.
Analytical instruments.
Numerous scientific instruments use Stainless Steel Capillary Tube. They are ideal for precise sample handling in spectrometry and chromatography.
Aerospace.
Aircraft fuel systems and hydraulic lines contain Stainless Steel Capillary Tube. They ensure consistent and reliable fuel delivery.
Automotive.
Stainless Steel Capillary Tubes serve in fuel injection systems as well. Moreover, you can find them in brake lines and emission control equipment.
Industrial automation.
Pneumatic and hydraulic control systems are using these tubes for reliable pressure transmission.
Conclusion
The Stainless Steel Capillary Tubes may look small. However, they are making a significant impact. You can get them to offer precision, durability, and corrosion resistance in a compact form. Along with technological development, the demand for these tubes continue to increase as well. Stick to a reliable supplier and get your hands on these tubes to experience the best results.
Recommended Reading:
How Does a Capillary Tube Work?
The Benefits of Stainless Steel Capillary Tubing
Producing Capillary Stainless Steel Tube for Medical Application
