Low Temperature Service Tube

A 334 specification describes Low temperature service tubes applied up to minus 150 degrees Fahrenheit. These tube are always provided in normalized condition with Charpy Impact V-Notch Test as per the temperature range requirements to assure compatibility with the applicable environments.

Low temperature tube also known as LTCS tube abbreviated as LOW TEMPERATURE CARBON STEEL tube. Since heavier wall thickness has an adverse effect on the low temperature impact properties, the size availability is limited in this specification.

As per ASME sec II part D ASTM A334 tube and ASME SA 334 tube can be used only up to 375 degrees Celsius.

Specific Heat Treatment

ASTM A333 Grade 6 and ASME SA 333 Grade 6 are heat treated to achieve normalized condition @ 920 degrees Celsius with controlled microstructure.

LTCS tube have high toughness values because of heat treatment (normalizing above 800C and quenching) applied during manufacturing process.

Specific Impact requirements

The raw material used for low temperature service tube is ALUMINIUM killed with high proportion of manganese (more than 1%) combined with low proportions of carbon (less than 0.23%).

For low temperature tube to be certified as LTCS additional impact test should be conducted at low temperatures, as per mandatory requirements in section 8 of ASTM A 334.