Segmented fin tubes are finned tubes made by helically winding a metal tape around a base tube, with one edge slit at closely spaced intervals to create individual fin segments that fan outward around the tube. This segmented profile increases turbulence in the external fluid and can raise the heat transfer coefficient compared with a continuous solid fin. This equation causes an increase in pressure drop on the air side, and therefore, fan capacity and running costs must also be taken into account during thermal design.
Amardeep Steel Centre has been producing and supplying quality stainless steel and specialty tubes since 1982 and has successfully delivered products to more than 40 countries so far. For each requirement, tube grade, fin material, fin height, fin density, and segment geometry can be reviewed against the intended heat transfer duty.
Technical Data
Specifications of Segmented Fin Tubes
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
|
Fin Construction |
Helically wound tape with one edge slit into radially outward segments |
|
Fin Materials |
Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminium |
|
Base Tube Materials |
Carbon Steel A179, A192, A210; Stainless Steel TP304, TP316; Alloy Steel P11, P22 |
|
Base Tube Outer Diameter |
25 mm to 76 mm |
|
Fin Height |
12.7 mm to 25.4 mm |
|
Fin Density |
3 to 8 fins per inch |
|
Segment Spacing |
Selected according to thermal design and customer drawing |
|
Documentation |
Mill Test Certificate supplied according to order requirements |
Chemical Composition of Segmented Finned Tubes
The chemical composition of a segmented fin tube depends on the selected base tube grade. The table below shows selected elements for commonly specified grades. Complete chemistry should be checked against the applicable material standard.
| Grade | Carbon C | Manganese Mn | Chromium Cr | Molybdenum Mo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Carbon Steel A179 |
0.06% to 0.18% |
0.27% to 0.63% |
Not specified |
Not specified |
|
Alloy Steel P11, A213 T11 |
0.05% to 0.15% |
0.30% to 0.60% |
1.00% to 1.50% |
0.44% to 0.65% |
|
Alloy Steel P22, A213 T22 |
0.05% to 0.15% |
0.30% to 0.60% |
1.90% to 2.60% |
0.87% to 1.13% |
|
Stainless Steel TP304 |
0.08% maximum |
2.00% maximum |
18.00% to 20.00% |
Not specified |
Segmented Fin Tubes Mechanical Properties
Mechanical properties are governed by the base tube material rather than by the segmented fin profile itself.
| Grade | Tensile Strength Minimum | Yield Strength Minimum | Elongation Minimum |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Carbon Steel A179 |
325 MPa |
180 MPa |
35% |
|
Alloy Steel P11 |
415 MPa |
205 MPa |
30% |
|
Alloy Steel P22 |
415 MPa |
205 MPa |
30% |
|
Stainless Steel TP304 |
515 MPa |
205 MPa |
35% |
Actual certification values should be verified against the material standard and the Mill Test Certificate supplied with the order.
Segmented Finned Tube Dimension Chart
| Base Tube Outside Diameter | Fin Height | Fin Density |
|---|---|---|
|
25 mm to 38 mm |
12.7 mm to 19.05 mm |
5 to 8 FPI |
|
38 mm to 57 mm |
19.05 mm to 25.4 mm |
4 to 6 FPI |
|
57 mm to 76 mm |
19.05 mm to 25.4 mm |
3 to 5 FPI |
Fin height, fin density, fin thickness, and segment spacing are confirmed against the customer drawing and expected airflow conditions before production.
Applications of Segmented Fin Tubes
Segmented fin tubes are used where increased external turbulence and heat transfer are required:
- Air Cooled Heat Exchangers: supports enhanced air side heat transfer where fan pressure can accommodate higher pressure drop.
- Industrial Process Cooling: used in chemical, petrochemical and industrial process coolers requiring efficient external heat transfer.
- Waste Heat Recovery: suitable for selected recovery systems where increased gas side turbulence supports compact thermal design.
- Power Generation: used in heat recovery and cooling equipment according to temperature, pressure and material requirements.
- HVAC: considered for industrial air conditioning where higher heat transfer performance is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Segmented Fin Tubes?
Segmented Fin Tubes use a helically wound fin tape with one edge divided into individual outward projecting segments to increase turbulence and external heat transfer.
How does a Segmented Fin Tube differ from a Serrated Fin Tube?
Segmented and serrated are used inconsistently across the industry, but the distinction that matters is construction: a segmented fin is a helically wound tape with one edge slit into individual fanned out spines, while a serrated fin is a continuous strip with notches cut along its edge before winding. Confirm which construction a supplier means before comparing quotes.
Do segmented fins increase pressure drop?
Yes. The increased turbulence generated by segmented fins generally produces higher air side pressure drop than an equivalent continuous solid fin.
What is the maximum operating temperature for Segmented Fin Tubes?
Segmented Fin Tubes are typically rated up to 450 degrees Celsius, depending on base tube and fin material. Exact ratings depend on wall thickness and the applicable design code, so confirm project specific figures with our team.
Which materials are available for Segmented Fin Tubes?
Base tubes can include carbon steel, stainless steel and alloy steel, while fin materials can include carbon steel, stainless steel and aluminium.
Can the fin height and segment spacing be customised?
Yes. Fin height, fin density, segment spacing, fin thickness, tube dimensions and materials can be specified according to the project requirement.
Request a Quote for Segmented Fin Tubes
For a project-specific recommendation, share the tube size, material grade, operating temperature, pressure, airflow, and required heat duty.
Request a QuoteRelated Products
T-Type Longitudinal Fin Tubes, Finned Tubes, G-Fin Tubes, Finned Tube Heat Exchangers, and KL Fin Tubes
