Low temperature pipe also known as LTCS pipe abbreviated as Low temperature carbon pipe,is a type of steel pipe that is specifically designed to withstand extremely low temperatures. It has a higher percentage of manganese and a lower percentage of carbon than traditional carbon steel pipes, allowing it to maintain its strength and ductility even in subzero conditions. This makes it ideal for various industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, and cryogenic applications.
A seamless low-temperature carbon steel pipe is one that has no welding seams or joints. Low-temperature Carbon Steel Pipe are formed by rolling steel plates and welding the seams together. Low-temperature Carbon Steel Pipes are produced to meet the specific needs of low-temperature service. This class of pipe is made from carbon and alloy steel. These pipes can be welded or seamless and conform to ASTM A333. ASTM A333 is widely applicable to low-temperature applications and covers several grades of ferritic steel. LTCS Pipes are commonly used for construction and maintenance applications.
Low-temperature carbon steel pipe provide excellent mechanical properties and are easy to work with. Their carbon content is between 0.05% and 0.25%, which makes them very malleable and ductile. They have low tensile strength but can be enhanced by undergoing a carburizing process. They are also easy to cold form. They have a moderate strength and toughness down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes them well suited for refrigerant systems. The Outside Diameter (OD) is usually 3" or less. These pipes are typically delivered in bundles. They may be wrapped in polypropylene or secured with flat steel bands. A low-grade carbon steel pipe is a great choice for ductwork and other low-temperature applications.
Specifications : ASTM A333 / ASME SA333
Standard: ASTM, ASME and API
Size: 1/2" - 24"
Schedule: SCH 40, SCH 80, SCH 160, SCH XS, SCH XXS, All Schedules
Types: Seamless / ERW / Welded / Fabricated / CDW
Length: Single Random, Double Random & Required Length, Custom Size – 12 Meter lengths
Form: Round Pipes/Tubes, Square Pipes/Tubes, Rectangular Pipe/Tubes, Coiled Tubes, “U” Shape, Pan Cake Coils, Hydraulic Tubes
End: Plain End, Beveled End, Treaded
Grades: ASTM A333 Grade 1, ASTM A333 Grade 3, ASTM A333 Grade 6, ASTM A334 Grade 1, ASTM A334 Grade 6.
Element | ASTM A333 Grade 6 (%) | ASTM A350 LF2 (%) |
Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.30 | ≤ 0.30 |
Manganese (Mn) | 0.29–1.06 | 0.60–1.35 |
Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.025 | ≤ 0.035 |
Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.025 | ≤ 0.040 |
Silicon (Si) | 0.10–0.35 | 0.15–0.30 |
Nickel (Ni) | 0.40–0.70 | 0.40–1.06 |
Chromium (Cr) | - | ≤ 0.30 |
Molybdenum (Mo) | - | ≤ 0.12 |
Copper (Cu) | - | ≤ 0.40 |
Vanadium (V) | - | ≤ 0.08 |
Property | ASTM A333 Grade 6 | ASTM A350 LF2 |
Tensile Strength (MPa) | ≥ 415 | ≥ 485 |
Yield Strength (MPa) | ≥ 240 | ≥ 250 |
Elongation (%) | ≥ 30 | ≥ 22 |
Impact Energy (J) | ≥ 20 at -45°C | ≥ 27 at -46°C |
Hardness (HB) | ≤ 197 | ≤ 197 |
Safety and Reliability: Their toughness and resistance to brittle fractures help prevent accidents in low-temperature conditions.
Long-Term Performance: These pipes maintain their structural integrity and minimize maintenance needs even under continuous exposure to extreme cold.
Versatile Design Options: Available in various sizes and schedules, they can be customized to meet specific application requirements, from thin-walled configurations to heavy-duty pipes.
LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) Pipelines: Low-temperature pipes are used to transport LNG, which is stored and transported at temperatures as low as -162°C (-260°F).
Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration: These pipes are used in cold regions where temperatures can drop significantly, ensuring safe and efficient operation of drilling and production systems.
Cryogenic Storage Tanks: Low-temperature pipes are used to connect and support storage tanks for liquefied gases like oxygen, nitrogen, argon, and hydrogen.
LNG Terminals and Regasification Plants: Low-temperature pipes are used to transport LNG from storage tanks to regasification units, where it is converted back to natural gas for distribution.
Rocket Fuel Systems: Low-temperature pipes are used to transport cryogenic fuels like liquid oxygen (LOX) and liquid hydrogen (LH2) in rocket propulsion systems.
Cryogenic Medical Equipment: Used in medical devices that require cryogenic temperatures, such as MRI machines and cryosurgery equipment.