We are a specialist establishment known for our work on tubes. Our team uses the likes of tube expansion to create utensils that suit their intended applications. With this technique, we use a variety of methods to open the tube end. By doing it, you can use the utensil in new and interesting ways.
Seawater desalination
Titanium tubes are more resistant to seawater corrosion than other metals. The material has exceptional stability in either high speed or static flowing seawater. Thus, you can use the tubes in desalination. Thanks to the corrosion resistance, alongside the lightweight and high strength properties, they are perfect for the field.
At present, seawater desalination has spread to more than 170 countries. You will find countless plants worldwide. In fact, some countries like UAE and Saudi Arabia rely on it for fresh water supplies. The daily output of seawater desalination around the world is over 90 million cubic metres. It has become one of the primary methods of solving water shortage issues. What we want to do is discuss the properties of titanium tubing for this work in detail.
Corrosion resistance
Firstly, there is the corrosion resistance. Titanium is an active material possessing low equilibrium potential. Also, it has a high thermodynamic corrosion tendency. Thanks to its high oxygen affinity, it is stable in many forms of media. Examples include neutral, oxidising and weak reducing media. In an oxygen-containing medium, a strong, dense adhesion, and high inert oxide film forms. This happens on the titanium’s surface. It protects the metal substrate from corrosion. Even if mechanical wear happens, it will rapidly heal.
Low-temperature resistance and performance
Low temperature alloys, like grades 5 and 7, have increasing strength with decreasing temperature. There is little change in plasticity though. As the tensile strength comes close to yield strength, titanium’s yield ratio is high. This indicates that titanium’s plastic deformation is poor during forming. However, the resilience during moulding is high thanks to the large ratio of the yield limit to the elastic modulus.
Low density and high specific strength
Titanium also has low density and high specific strength. The material has a density of 4.51g/cm3. This is greater than aluminium, but beneath nickel, copper, and steel. Yet, the specific strength ranks first above these metals. If you’re in need of tube expansion, get in touch with us.
Why is it especially good for desalination?
Let’s move on to why titanium tubes are specifically employed in seawater desalination. To start with, heat transfer tubes for this work tend to be smaller-diameter models with lower wall thickness. Normally, copper alloy tubes come with a wall thickness of 0.9-1.2mm. As for titanium tubing, it is only 0.4-0.7mm thanks to its high strength. Under the same operating conditions, you get more use out of the latter.
Thermal conductivity
Titanium tube has high thermal conductivity too. It stands at 17W/(m.k). Even with thin-wall tubes, the conductivity is similar to 90/10 cupronickel and superior to 70/30 cupronickel.
Cost efficient
Desalination plants typically require a lot of tubing. Therefore, it is important to look closely at costs. Generally, titanium is more expensive than other materials like copper. However, thin wall tubing can have much closer parity. If you factor in the weight savings and longevity, it can be more competitive to choose titanium.
We understand tubing and deliver excellent tube expansion
At Multiform Tubes Engineering Ltd, we have an experienced and highly knowledgeable team. They understand how to use techniques like bending and expansion to great effect. Our customer service is also exceptional. We can answer any queries you might have to ensure you get the right service.
So, please let us know if there is anything we can do for you. We can offer tube expansion and other services for different types of tubing. More crucially, we can cater for an ever-growing list of applications.