Corrugated tube

Corrugated heat exchange tubes are developed as an alternative to conventional plain tubes for higher efficiency and more reliable long term operation. The tube wall is formed into a continuous wave profile, which changes both the internal and external flow characteristics compared with straight tubes.

Most corrugated tubes are made from stainless steel, which already provides good corrosion resistance. In addition, the corrugated geometry creates strong turbulence on both the inner and outer surfaces. The fluid continuously washes the tube wall during operation, making it difficult for deposits to accumulate.

Even when fouling begins to form, the tube behaves as a flexible element. Under temperature fluctuations, the corrugated profile undergoes slight but continuous deformation. Because the thermal expansion of the metal differs from that of the deposits, a shear force develops at the interface. This force helps loosen and remove the deposits, so the tube has a certain self cleaning effect during operation.

Compared with straight tubes, the stress distribution along a corrugated tube is more uniform, which improves resistance to thermal stress and reduces the risk of localized damage. The combination of turbulence and structural flexibility makes this type of tube particularly suitable for applications where fouling is a concern.

The use of thin wall material further reduces weight while maintaining sufficient strength. This not only lowers material consumption but also makes installation easier and reduces the load on supporting structures.

Typical Technical Parameters

Tube outside diameter: 12 mm to 50 mm
Wall thickness: 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm
Corrugation height: 1 mm to 5 mm
Corrugation pitch: 5 mm to 25 mm
Tube length: up to 12 meters
Material grades: 304, 304L, 316, 316L, duplex stainless steel and other corrosion resistant alloys
Maximum operating temperature: up to 400°C depending on material
Maximum operating pressure: typically up to 6.4 MPa depending on design and wall thickness

Performance Characteristics

Enhanced heat transfer due to increased turbulence on both sides of the tube
Reduced fouling tendency and partial self cleaning capability
Uniform stress distribution and good resistance to thermal fatigue
Good corrosion resistance when appropriate materials are selected
Lower weight compared with conventional thick wall tubes

Applications

Corrugated tubes are widely used in heat exchangers for petrochemical plants, power generation systems, marine equipment, and various process industries. They are particularly suitable for condensers, coolers, and heat recovery systems where fouling, thermal stress, or space constraints are important considerations.

FAQ：

1. Are you manufacturer or trader?

We are titanium tube manufacturer producing from melting titanium sponge, extruding hollow billet, rolling to finished tubes and destructive test mechanical test, chemical analysis, non-destructive tests like Ultrasonic test, Eddy current test, Pneumatic test and hydrostatic test are available in house.

Beside titanium tube production line, we also have finning lines. Our factory is still expanding and will invest more on finning facilities.

2. How many workers are there in your factory?

Till 2026, we have 210 staffs.

3. How fast can you deliver the materials?

It depends on the size and quantity, the standard time is 45 days.

4. What is the payment term you can offer?

Standard term is 30% T/T in advance, balance before shipment. L/C is also acceptable. It can be discussed based on different project.

5. Can you provide third party inspection service?

Yes, we can arrange BV/TUV/SGS/LR etc inspection. EN10204 3.2 certificate can be provided.

6. What is your annum turnover?

For 2025, we have had 100 million US dollars turnover for our whole group including factory and the export company.

7. What is the percentage of your export and domestic market share?

Approximately 30% of orders are for export and 70% are for domestic market. However we are aiming to increase more investment on export and hopefully the percentage can be 50-50 in the near future.

8. What country are your clients from?

We are working with overseas clients from Europe like Netherland, France, Italy, Spain etc, USA, Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Chile, Argentina, Brasil, Russia, Belarus, Uzbekstan. Basically we work with clients from all over the world. We welcome every client to approach us for inquiry, and we will be ready to serve our clients. We also welcome our clients to visit our factory for onsite audit.