Subsection 5.1.1 Pipe Materials
Pipe and tube are manufactured using various materials. The choice depends on factors such as the fluid being transported, temperature and pressure conditions, corrosion considerations, cost, USCG and ABS regulations
Here are few of the materials used in shipboard piping systems.
Welded carbon steel tubing is used for water, steam, and oil lines where the maximum temperature is below 450° F. There are several varieties of carbon steel and it is relatively cost-effective.
Seamless carbon steel tubing is used in oil, steam, and feed water lines operating up to 775° F.
Seamless carbon-molybdenum and chromium-molybdenum alloy steel tubing are used for high temperature, high pressure systems, up to 1500 psig and 1050° F for chrome-moly
Copper-nickel alloy tubing and Seamless brass tubing are both widely used in low pressure systems which must resist the corrosive action of salt water
Nickel alloys, such as Monel and Inconel. These are two families of high-performance alloys known for their exceptional resistance to corrosion, high temperatures, and various harsh environments.
Seamless copper tubing is used for refrigeration lines, plumbing and heating systems, lubrication systems, and other shipboard systems.
Seamless aluminum tubing is used for dry lines in sprinkling systems and for some bilge and sanitary drain systems.
Stainless steel tubing has excellent strength and corrosion resistance. It is often used in hydraulic systems.
Black iron pipe is an informal name for a mild-steel pipe that is used with threaded fittings for easy assembly of low pressure piping systems. It is susceptible to galvanic corrosion, especially when it comes in contact with other materials in a salt water environment.
