Industry Applications

Allianz Steel Group
Ronsco,Urea-grade Stainless Steel Tubes,316L Mod Tubes,310MoLN Tubes

FAQs About Tubes Used In The Urea Production

Date:2025-03-13

Q: Corrosion Issues


A: In urea production, tubes are exposed to corrosive media such as high-temperature and high-pressure ammonia, carbon dioxide, and urea solution, making them susceptible to corrosion, particularly intergranular corrosion. To address this, it is essential to select appropriate stainless steel materials like 316L Mod and 310MoLN, which are designed for urea service. Surface treatments such as acid pickling and passivation can enhance corrosion resistance by forming a dense chromium oxide layer. Regular non-destructive testing (NDT) methods like ultrasonic testing or radiographic testing should be employed to detect and repair corrosion sites promptly.


Q: Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC)


A: tubes in urea production are prone to stress corrosion cracking due to long-term exposure to high temperatures, pressures, and stress conditions, especially at welded joints and stress-concentrated areas. To prevent SCC, pipeline design should minimize stress concentration, and welding processes must be strictly controlled to avoid defects. Post-weld heat treatments such as solution annealing or stabilization can reduce the risk of intergranular corrosion. Regular NDT using ultrasonic methods is crucial for monitoring pipeline integrity and repairing any detected cracks.


Q: Pipe Blockage


A: Urea solution can crystallize and cause blockages in tubes, particularly when there are significant temperature and pressure fluctuations. To prevent blockages, pipeline design should include bypass lines or injection points for crystallization inhibitors. Regular cleaning of tubes should be scheduled based on production cycles, using chemical cleaning methods or physical methods like high-pressure water flushing. Additionally, optimizing temperature and pressure control during production can help minimize urea crystallization.


Q: Welding Defects


A: Welding defects such as porosity, slag inclusion, and incomplete fusion can compromise the integrity and strength of tubes. To ensure welding quality, it is essential to select welding materials compatible with the base metal and strictly control welding parameters such as current, voltage, and welding speed. Post-weld non-destructive testing, including X-ray inspection or ultrasonic testing, is necessary to verify weld quality.


Q: Sealing Issues


A: Leakage at pipe connections can occur under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions due to inadequate sealing. To address sealing issues, high-quality gasket materials such as graphite or PTFE should be used, and flange connections should be designed to ensure even bolt tension. Regular inspection of flange and bolt connections is necessary to replace aged or damaged gaskets promptly.


Q: Temperature and Pressure Fluctuations


A: Dramatic fluctuations in temperature and pressure can cause pipe deformation, leakage, and even failure. To mitigate these effects, expansion joints or bellows should be installed in the pipeline system to absorb stress from temperature and pressure changes. Production processes should be optimized using automated control systems to minimize fluctuations. Additionally, installing pressure and temperature sensors for real-time monitoring allows for timely adjustments to production parameters.


Q: Cost Issues

A: Urea-grade stainless steel tubes are expensive, increasing the costs of equipment procurement and maintenance. To manage costs, it is advisable to select cost-effective stainless steel materials that meet production requirements, such as 316L or 321. Extending the service life of tubes through proper design, welding, and maintenance practices reduces long-term maintenance costs. Bulk purchasing or long-term partnerships can also help lower material procurement costs.


Q: Cleaning and Maintenance


A: Accumulation of impurities inside tubes over time can affect production efficiency and product quality. Regular cleaning of tubes based on production cycles is essential, using either chemical or physical cleaning methods. The use of automated cleaning equipment can improve cleaning efficiency and quality. Training operators to follow standardized cleaning and maintenance procedures is also crucial.


Q: Environmental Adaptability


A: tubes in urea production may be subjected to mechanical impacts and vibrations in a complex working environment. To enhance environmental adaptability, pipeline support systems should be designed to minimize mechanical vibration effects. Adding insulation or corrosion-resistant coatings to the exterior of tubes can protect against mechanical damage.


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