In a significant stride for the energy sector, researchers at Zhejiang Pacific Seamless Steel Tube Co., Ltd. have successfully developed a large-diameter, medium-thick-walled P22 seamless steel pipe using a precision skew rolling mill. This innovation, detailed in a recent article published in the journal ‘Teshugang’ (which translates to ‘Iron and Steel’), promises to enhance the efficiency and reliability of energy infrastructure, particularly in power plants and other high-demand applications.
The research, led by Zheng Shijian and his team, focuses on the hot-rolled direct production of P22 seamless steel pipes with diameters exceeding 900mm. This process offers a shorter production flow, lower costs, and higher yield compared to traditional methods. The resulting steel pipes boast precise dimensions, excellent surface quality, and superior performance, making them ideal for critical energy sector applications.
“Our goal was to optimize the production process to meet the stringent requirements of the energy industry,” said Zheng Shijian, the lead author of the study. “By leveraging the precision skew rolling mill, we’ve achieved significant improvements in both the quality and efficiency of P22 seamless steel pipe production.”
The P22 seamless steel pipes produced through this innovative method exhibit impressive mechanical properties. With an outer diameter deviation ranging from -0.5mm to +6.2mm and an ovality of just 0.58%, these pipes ensure a precise fit and reliable performance. Their tensile strength of 513 MPa and yield strength of 318 MPa, coupled with an elongation of 34.0%, demonstrate exceptional durability and flexibility. Additionally, the pipes maintain an average impact energy of 257J at room temperature and a ductile-brittle transition temperature below -40℃, ensuring robust performance even in extreme conditions.
The chemical composition and various properties of these large-diameter, medium-thick-walled P22 seamless steel pipes meet the requirements of ASTM A 335/A 335M-24b and other industry standards. This compliance underscores the pipes’ suitability for high-pressure and high-temperature applications, such as those found in power plants and refineries.
The commercial impact of this research is substantial. The energy sector relies heavily on high-quality steel pipes for the construction and maintenance of critical infrastructure. The development of large-diameter, medium-thick-walled P22 seamless steel pipes offers a more cost-effective and efficient solution, potentially reducing construction costs and improving the longevity of energy facilities.
“This breakthrough not only enhances our production capabilities but also sets a new benchmark for the industry,” said Xu Lujun, another key contributor to the research. “We believe this innovation will drive further advancements in the field and support the growing demands of the energy sector.”
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the demand for high-performance materials will only increase. The research conducted by Zheng Shijian and his team at Zhejiang Pacific Seamless Steel Tube Co., Ltd. represents a significant step forward in meeting these demands. By pushing the boundaries of steel pipe production, they are shaping the future of energy infrastructure and paving the way for more efficient and reliable energy solutions.
The article, published in ‘Teshugang’, serves as a testament to the ongoing innovation in the steel industry and highlights the potential for further advancements in the production of high-quality seamless steel pipes. As the energy sector continues to grow, the insights and developments shared in this research will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of energy infrastructure.