ASTM A179 is a specification for seamless cold-drawn low-carbon steel tubes designed for use in heat exchangers, condensers, and other similar applications that involve heat transfer.

Key Properties of ASTM A179 Material:

Material Type: Low-carbon steel

Manufacturing Process: Seamless and cold-drawn

Applications: Primarily used in heat exchangers, condensers, and other systems requiring efficient heat transfer due to the thin walls of the tubes.

Chemical Composition:

Carbon (C): 0.06% - 0.18%

Manganese (Mn): 0.27% - 0.63%

Phosphorus (P): ≤ 0.035%

Sulfur (S): ≤ 0.035%

Mechanical Properties:

Tensile Strength: Minimum 325 MPa (47,100 psi)

Yield Strength: Minimum 180 MPa (26,100 psi)

Elongation: Minimum 35%

Key Features:

Thin Walls: The tubes are designed to have relatively thin walls, making them ideal for efficient heat transfer in applications like heat exchangers.

Cold Drawn Process: Cold drawing enhances the material's mechanical properties, giving it higher strength and better surface finish compared to hot-rolled tubing.

Corrosion Resistance: While not as corrosion-resistant as stainless steel, A179 is often used in environments where the temperature and medium do not severely corrode the material.

Common Applications:

Heat exchangers

Condensers

Boiler tubes

This specification is often selected for systems where high pressure and heat are involved, but where stainless steel or other more expensive alloys are not required.