Copper Heat Exchanger Tubes

Copper heat exchanger tubes, especially copper nickel alloy tubes, are widely used in seawater heat exchangers, condensers, marine cooling systems, and power plants. Copper nickel tubing offers excellent corrosion resistance, anti-biofouling performance, and high thermal conductivity, making it ideal for harsh environments.

Vulroc Tube supplies high-quality CuNi heat exchanger tubes for marine, offshore, power generation, and industrial cooling applications.

 

Key Advantages & Technical Features

  • Exceptional Corrosion Resistance:
    The nickel content provides outstanding resistance to impingement attack, erosion-corrosion, and ammonia-based environments. CuNi 70/30 offers superior resistance to high-velocity seawater, while CuNi 90/10 provides excellent performance in lower-velocity conditions.

  • Anti-Biofouling Properties:
    Copper-nickel alloys naturally resist marine organism adhesion, reducing biofilm formation and maintaining heat transfer efficiency over time without frequent chemical cleaning.

  • High Thermal Conductivity:
    While offering superior strength compared to pure copper, CuNi tubes maintain excellent heat transfer coefficients, optimizing the thermal efficiency of shell-and-tube heat exchangers, condensers, and evaporators.

  • Fabrication Flexibility:
    Available in straight lengths, precision U-bends (stress-relieved to prevent cracking), and coils. Excellent weldability and formability allow for seamless integration into complex heat exchanger bundles.

Available Materials

  • CuNi 90/10 (C70600)
  • CuNi 70/30 (C71500)
  • Copper Alloy C68700 (Aluminum Brass)
  • Copper Alloy C44300 (Admiralty Brass)
  • Pure Copper C12200 (optional)

Technical Specifications

Parameter CuNi 90/10 (C70600) CuNi 70/30 (C71500)
UNS Designation C70600 C71500
Nominal Composition Cu 88.5% / Ni 10% / Fe 1.5% Cu 69.5% / Ni 30% / Fe 0.5%
Outer Diameter (OD) 6 mm – 50 mm (Custom sizes available) 6 mm – 50 mm (Custom sizes available)
Wall Thickness 0.5 mm – 3.0 mm 0.5 mm – 3.0 mm
Length Up to 25,000 mm (straight lengths) / Custom U-bends Up to 25,000 mm (straight lengths) / Custom U-bends
Temper Annealed (Soft) / Stress-Relieved (for U-bends) Annealed (Soft) / Stress-Relieved (for U-bends)
Standards ASTM B111 / EN 12451 / ASME SB111 ASTM B111 / EN 12451 / ASME SB111
 

Why Choose Copper-Nickel for Heat Exchangers?

  • Long Service Life: With proper design and operation, CuNi tubes can provide 20+ years of service in seawater applications.

  • Low Maintenance: Reduced fouling and corrosion mean fewer shutdowns for cleaning or tube replacement.

  • Proven Track Record: Decades of global use in naval vessels, merchant ships, and coastal power plants validate reliability.

  • Recyclability: Fully recyclable material supporting sustainability goals and circular economy principles.

Certifications & Quality Assurance

  • Quality Management: ISO 9001:2015

  • Product Standards: ASTM B111 / ASME SB111 / EN 12451 / JIS H3300

  • Third-Party Inspection: Available upon request (ABS, DNV, BV, LR, TÜV)

  • Testing: Eddy current testing (ET), hydrostatic testing, tensile testing, hardness testing

Packaging & Logistics

Item Description
Straight Lengths Bundled with steel straps, protected by plastic caps on both ends, wrapped in moisture-resistant paper
U-Bends Custom plywood crates with layered separation to prevent damage during transit
Protection Anti-corrosion oil applied as required; wooden packaging compliant with ISPM 15 for international shipping
Marking Each tube stamped with material grade, heat number, and dimensions for full traceability

Applications

Industry Specific Applications
Marine Engineering Seawater cooling systems, shipboard heat exchangers, offshore platform coolers, desalination plants
Power Generation Power plant condensers, auxiliary cooling systems, turbine lube oil coolers
Industrial Processing Chemical plant heat exchangers, HVAC condensers, refrigeration systems
Oil & Gas Platform cooling systems, process fluid coolers, hydraulic oil coolers

FAQ

Why use copper nickel tubes for heat exchangers?
Copper nickel offers excellent seawater corrosion resistance and long service life.

What is the most common copper nickel alloy?
CuNi 90/10 (C70600) is most commonly used.

Can you supply U bend tubes?
Yes, U bend copper nickel tubes are available.

Are these tubes suitable for seawater?
Yes, copper nickel tubes are ideal for seawater applications.

What standard do you supply?
ASTM B111 is the most common standard.

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