When it comes to demanding applications such as heat exchangers, coolers, boilers, condensers, pressure vessels, or nuclear facilities, stainless steel may fall short due to its limitations in corrosion resistance, pressure handling, or temperature endurance. This is where zirconium tubing can make a difference.
Compared to stainless steel, zirconium tubing is often recommended due to its outstanding corrosion resistance, high strength-to-weight ratio and very low thermal neutron cross section – making it a preferred choice in some nuclear applications. For example, the neutron cross section is 30 times lower than stainless steel. Some variants can also be used for medical applications.
Main industrial applications
- Chemical processing: For handling strong acids and bases.
- Nuclear power generation: Ideal for nuclear fuel cladding tubes.
- Oil and gas: Used in corrosive environments like heat exchangers.
- Power generation: Essential in high-temperature, corrosive applications.
Typical equipment
- Heat exchangers
- Coolers
- Condensers
- Heaters
- Piping & boiler needs
Main benefits, or challenges overcome
- Corrosion resistance: Exceptional performance against acids, bases, and chlorides.
- High-temperature durability: Operates effectively in extreme heat.
- Low neutron absorption: Critical for nuclear reactor components.
- Long-term reliability: Outperforms stainless steel in harsh conditions.
Alleima zirconium tubing is available in:
- Sizes: Outer diameter ranging from 9.53 mm to 38.1 mm (3/8 to 1½ inches).
- Wall thickness: 0.7 mm to 5 mm (0.0275 to 0.1968 inches).
- Delivery options: Straight lengths or U-bent tubes to suit your needs.
We also provide complementary zirconium products for heat exchanger applications. Additionally, the Alleima portfolio of alloy tubing covers specialized nuclear fuel tubes, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the nuclear power generation industry.
Choose Alleima for high-performance zirconium solutions that meet the toughest industrial challenges.
See our grades and materials specifications below.