Stainless Steel Coil Tube (Coiltube) — Product Technical Specification
1. Product Overview
The Stainless Steel Coil Tube (Coiltube), manufactured by Wenzhou Jixing Metal Materials Co., Ltd, is a precision-engineered continuous tubing product wound into a helical or spiral coil configuration. This product category is specifically designed for high-performance heat exchange applications, including fan coil units (FCUs), chiller coils, condenser coils, and evaporator assemblies within HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. The coil tube geometry maximizes surface area-to-volume ratio, enabling superior thermal transfer efficiency in compact installations.
Wenzhou Jixing Metal Materials Co., Ltd is a specialized supplier of stainless steel tube and pipe products, with extensive expertise in coil-forming technology and metallurgical processing for industrial-grade applications. The company adheres to rigorous quality control protocols throughout the manufacturing chain, ensuring dimensional accuracy, metallurgical integrity, and long-term service reliability.
2. Material & Properties
2.1 Base Material Grades
- SUS304 / AISI 304 (UNS S30408): Austenitic stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance, formability, and weldability. The most widely specified grade for coil tube applications in general industrial and commercial HVAC environments.
- SUS316 / AISI 316 (UNS S31608): Enhanced austenitic stainless steel containing molybdenum (Mo), providing superior resistance to chlorides and aggressive chemical environments. Recommended for marine, coastal, and chemical processing applications.
- SUS321 / AISI 321 (UNS S32108): Titanium-stabilized austenitic stainless steel offering improved resistance to intergranular corrosion at elevated temperatures (up to 870°C), suitable for high-temperature heat exchanger coils.
- SUS304L / AISI 304L (UNS S30403): Low-carbon variant of 304 with reduced risk of sensitization during welding operations, ideal for applications requiring extensive post-fabrication welding.
2.2 Mechanical Properties
- Tensile Strength: ≥ 520 MPa (SUS304), ≥ 515 MPa (SUS316)
- Yield Strength (0.2% offset): ≥ 205 MPa (SUS304), ≥ 170 MPa (SUS316)
- Elongation: ≥ 40% (SUS304), ≥ 35% (SUS316)
- Hardness: ≤ 217 HB (annealed condition)
- Operating Temperature Range: −196°C to +870°C (SUS304); −196°C to +870°C (SUS316)
2.3 Surface Finish Options
- 2B Finish: Cold-rolled, annealed, and pickled surface with a matte appearance. Standard finish for general industrial applications.
- No. 4 Brushed Finish: Uniformly directional grain pattern suitable for aesthetic and semi-corrosive environments.
- 2D Finish: Lightly annealed cold-rolled surface providing a smooth, low-roughness profile.
- BA (Bright Annealed) Finish: Mirror-like surface achieved through annealing in a controlled atmosphere, ideal for hygienic and food-grade applications.
3. Specifications
| Parameter | Specification / Range | Standard Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Outer Diameter (OD) | φ6.0 mm – φ50.8 mm (¼" – 2") | ASTM A269 / EN 10217-7 |
| Wall Thickness | 0.5 mm – 3.0 mm | ASTM A269 / ASME B36.19M |
| Coil Diameter (CD) | φ150 mm – φ800 mm (configurable) | Manufacturer Specification |
| Coil Length | Up to 60,000 m per coil (continuous) | — |
| OD Tolerance | ±0.05 mm – ±0.15 mm | ASTM A269 |
| Wall Thickness Tolerance | ±10% (nominal) | ASTM A269 / EN 10217-7 |
| Straightness | ≤ 1.5 mm/m (uncoiled) | ISO 6508 |
| Winding Pitch | 0.5 mm – 5.0 mm (adjustable) | Application-Specific |
| Finish | 2B / 2D / No.4 / BA | ASTM A480 / EN 10088-2 |
| Heat Treatment | Full Anneal (Solution Annealed at 1040–1120°C, water/quench) | ASTM A269 |
| Test Standards | Hydrostatic Test / Eddy Current / PMI (Positive Material Identification) | ASTM A269 / EN 10217-7 |
| Minimum Order Quantity | Negotiable per grade and specification | — |
4. Manufacturing Process
4.1 Raw Material Procurement & Inspection
Raw stainless steel strip or bar is sourced from certified mill suppliers and subjected to incoming quality inspection including Positive Material Identification (PMI) via X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis, visual surface inspection, and dimensional verification. Chemical composition is confirmed against ASTM or EN standards through Spectrographic Analysis.
4.2 Cold Drawing / Extrusion
The stainless steel stock is processed through precision cold-drawing or hot-extrusion to achieve the target outer diameter and wall thickness. Cold drawing provides superior dimensional accuracy and surface finish, while extrusion is employed for thicker wall configurations. The process ensures tight tolerance control within ±0.05 mm for OD.
4.3 Heat Treatment (Solution Annealing)
Following forming operations, the tube undergoes solution annealing at temperatures between 1040°C and 1120°C, followed by rapid quenching (water or controlled atmosphere). This process dissolves carbide precipitates, restores full austenitic microstructure, relieves residual stresses, and maximizes corrosion resistance and ductility.
4.4 Pickling & Passivation
Post-annealing, the tube surface is treated with a mixed acid pickle (HNO₃ + H₂SO₄ or citric acid solution) to remove oxide scale. Subsequently, a passivation treatment using nitric acid or citric acid establishes a chromium-rich oxide layer on the surface, enhancing long-term corrosion resistance.
4.5 Precision Cutting & Coil Winding
The finished tube is cut to the required coil length using precision shearing or laser cutting equipment. The tube is then wound onto a controlled-diameter coil former using automated winding machinery that maintains uniform winding tension and pitch. The winding process is computer-controlled to ensure consistent coil geometry and prevent kinking or deformation.
4.6 Final Quality Control
- Dimensional Inspection: Optical and mechanical measurement of OD, wall thickness, and coil diameter at statistically significant intervals.
- Hydrostatic Pressure Test: Conducted per ASTM A269 to verify weld integrity and absence of defects in seamless tube.
- Eddy Current Testing: Non-destructive testing (NDT) for detection of internal and external surface defects.
- Surface Inspection: Visual and magnetic particle inspection for surface discontinuities.
- Chemical & Mechanical Testing: Periodic laboratory verification of chemical composition and mechanical properties.
5. Applications
5.1 HVAC & Fan Coil Units (FCU)
The primary application domain for stainless steel coil tubes is in the construction of fan coil units, where the coil tube forms the heat exchange core. The coil tube is arranged in serpentine, spiral, or U-tube configurations within an aluminum fin-and-tube assembly. CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) analysis has demonstrated that optimized coil geometry and tube placement significantly reduce aerodynamic noise in centrifugal fan assemblies, improving overall unit performance and acoustic comfort. Stainless steel coil tubes offer superior durability and corrosion resistance compared to copper alternatives in environments with aggressive condensate or chemical exposure.
5.2 Refrigeration & Chiller Systems
Stainless steel coil tubes are employed in evaporator and condenser coils for industrial refrigeration systems, chiller units, and heat pumps. The material's resistance to refrigerant corrosion and ability to withstand cyclic thermal stress make it suitable for long-duration refrigeration service.
5.3 Chemical Processing & Pharmaceutical
In chemical processing plants and pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, SUS316 coil tubes are specified for heat exchangers handling aggressive chemicals, acids, and caustic solutions. The molybdenum content provides critical resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride-rich environments.
5.4 Food & Beverage Processing
BA-finish stainless steel coil tubes conform to sanitary design requirements for food and beverage processing equipment, including pasteurizers, condensers, and thermal processing coils. The smooth surface finish prevents product retention and facilitates CIP (Clean-in-Place) operations.
5.5 Marine & Offshore Applications
SUS316 coil tubes are specified for marine HVAC systems, shipboard refrigeration, and offshore platform heat exchange equipment where resistance to saltwater corrosion is paramount.
5.6 Automotive & Industrial Heat Management
Stainless steel coil tubes are utilized in automotive air conditioning condensers, industrial oven heating coils, and process heating applications requiring high-temperature resistance and mechanical durability.
6. Quality Certifications & Standards Compliance
6.1 Product Standards
- ASTM A269 / A269M: Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for Chemical and Similar Severe Service.
- ASTM A213: Standard Specification for Seamless Ferritic, Austenitic, and Ferritic-Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubing for Heat-Exchanger and Similar Service.
- EN 10217-7: Non-alloy and alloy steels for tubes — Technical delivery conditions — Part 7: Seamless stainless steel tubes for pressure purposes.
- ASME B36.19M: Standard for Welded and Seamless Wrought Stainless Steel Pipe.
6.2 Quality Management Systems4>
- ISO 9001:2015: Quality Management Systems — Requirements.
- ISO 14001:2015: Environmental Management Systems — Requirements.
- ISO/TS 22163: Quality Management Systems — Particular Requirements for the Production of Medical Devices (where applicable).
6.3 Material Certifications4>
- Mill Test Certificate (MTC): Provided per EN 10204 Type 3.1, confirming chemical composition, mechanical properties, and heat treatment records.
- EN 10204 3.1 Certificate: Material verification documentation with independent testing laboratory confirmation.
- PMI Verification: XRF-based material identification report confirming alloy grade compliance.
6.4 Industry-Specific Certifications4>
- NSF/ANSI 61: Drinking Water System Components — Health Effects (for potable water applications).
- 3-A Sanitary Standards: For food and dairy processing equipment compliance.
- CE Marking: Conformity with European health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
7. Unique Selling Points
- Superior Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel coil tubes outperform copper and carbon steel alternatives in aggressive chemical and chloride environments, extending service life significantly.
- Hygienic Surface Integrity: BA and No.4 finishes provide smooth, non-porous surfaces ideal for food-grade and pharmaceutical applications.
- High-Temperature Capability: Operating temperature range up to 870°C enables deployment in high-temperature heat exchange and industrial heating applications.
- CFD-Optimized Coil Geometry: Coil tube configurations can be engineered based on Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis to minimize aerodynamic noise and maximize thermal efficiency in fan coil unit assemblies.
- Custom Configuration: Wenzhou Jixing Metal Materials Co., Ltd offers customizable coil diameter, winding pitch, and tube dimensions to meet specific application requirements.
- Full Traceability: Complete documentation from raw material mill to finished product ensures full supply chain traceability and regulatory compliance.
8. Packaging & Delivery
- Mill Test Certificate (MTC): Provided per EN 10204 Type 3.1, confirming chemical composition, mechanical properties, and heat treatment records.
- EN 10204 3.1 Certificate: Material verification documentation with independent testing laboratory confirmation.
- PMI Verification: XRF-based material identification report confirming alloy grade compliance.
6.4 Industry-Specific Certifications4>
- NSF/ANSI 61: Drinking Water System Components — Health Effects (for potable water applications).
- 3-A Sanitary Standards: For food and dairy processing equipment compliance.
- CE Marking: Conformity with European health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
7. Unique Selling Points
- Superior Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel coil tubes outperform copper and carbon steel alternatives in aggressive chemical and chloride environments, extending service life significantly.
- Hygienic Surface Integrity: BA and No.4 finishes provide smooth, non-porous surfaces ideal for food-grade and pharmaceutical applications.
- High-Temperature Capability: Operating temperature range up to 870°C enables deployment in high-temperature heat exchange and industrial heating applications.
- CFD-Optimized Coil Geometry: Coil tube configurations can be engineered based on Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis to minimize aerodynamic noise and maximize thermal efficiency in fan coil unit assemblies.
- Custom Configuration: Wenzhou Jixing Metal Materials Co., Ltd offers customizable coil diameter, winding pitch, and tube dimensions to meet specific application requirements.
- Full Traceability: Complete documentation from raw material mill to finished product ensures full supply chain traceability and regulatory compliance.
8. Packaging & Delivery
Coil tubes are packaged on wooden reels or steel drums with protective wrapping to prevent mechanical damage and surface contamination during transit. Each coil is labeled with product identification, grade, dimensions, heat number, and quantity information. Delivery options include standard shipping, containerized export, and just-in-time supply arrangements for qualified customers.
Disclaimer: The specifications outlined in this document represent standard product parameters. Custom specifications, non-standard grades, and application-specific engineering solutions are available upon request. All product data should be verified against the latest version of applicable standards and confirmed with Wenzhou Jixing Metal Materials Co., Ltd technical representatives prior to procurement.