Seamless nickel tube is used for a variety of applications, from heat exchangers on naval vessels to specialized medical guide wires. The alloy is resistant to seawater corrosion and has excellent fabric-ability. Its antimicrobial properties also help reduce microfouling levels.
Commercially pure nickel pipe is an excellent conductor of heat, which makes it an ideal choice for industrial applications that require temperature stability and purity of the product being transported. However, it may be susceptible to attack by oxidizing acids such as nitric acid.
Copper-nickel brake tubing is a preferred material for high-performance vehicles, including Volvo, Lotus, Aston Martin, Porsche and Audi. The alloy is known for its superior corrosion resistance and weldability, and is gaining popularity in the automotive industry as more car and bike mechanics begin to recognize its benefits.
In contrast to steel, copper-nickel can be formed without kinking or corroding. This can save money in the long run, as fewer repairs are required to keep the system functioning properly.
The material can also be welded and conditioned to a wide range of temperatures. This makes it an ideal choice for use in heat exchangers on marine vessels, where the metal is exposed to high temperatures.
MONEL 400 is a good choice for applications that require corrosion resistance and low ductile-to-brittle transition temperature (DBTT). It can be hot or cold worked to give a very durable end product.
Other nickel alloys can be used for pipes and tubes, including a range of ferritic grades. Ferritic grades can develop small amounts of ferromagnetism when cold worked, so they should only be used when the product must be protected from a ferromagnetic environment.
