What are the common materials used for the construction of boiler tubes?

The use of carbon steel and alloy steel for the construction of boiler tubes is well-justified due to their specific properties that make them suitable for high-pressure environments. Carbon steel offers excellent strength and durability, essential for withstanding the high temperatures and pressures inside a boiler. Alloy steel, on the other hand, includes various elements that enhance specific characteristics like corrosion resistance and toughness. These materials can handle thermal stress and have a high resistance to fatigue, which are critical for the safe and efficient operation of a boiler system.

In contrast, aluminum and stainless steel are less common in high-pressure boiler tube construction. While stainless steel is used in some applications due to its corrosion resistance, it does not typically have the same strength properties as carbon and alloy steels under high pressure. Copper and plastic are unsuitable for high-pressure applications; copper can handle heat transfer well but lacks the necessary strength, while plastic cannot withstand the extreme conditions found in a boiler. Nickel and titanium are specialized materials that may be used in certain applications but are not common for standard boiler tube construction due to their cost and specific usage scenarios.