ASTM B552-19

Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Copper–Nickel Tubes for Water Desalting Plants

ABSTRACT
This guide establishes requirements for seamless and welded copper-nickel tubes for use in heat exchangers in water desalting plants. Seamless tubes shall be manufactured by hot extrusion or piercing, and subsequent cold working and annealing as to produce a uniform, seamless wrought structure in the finished product. The welded tubes shall be manufactured from flat rolled strip which is subsequently formed and welded by a forge-weld process or a fusion-weld process. For forged-welded tube, the edges of the strip shall be heated to a required welding temperature, usually by high-frequency electric current, and be pressed firmly together causing a forged-type joint to be formed with internal and external flash or bead. On the other hand, fusion-welded tube shall be mechanically worked to produce a smooth external and internal surface without the application of scarfing or other removal of the weld bead. The product shall be cold worked and annealed as necessary to meet properties of the temper specified. The test specimen shall be free of defects, but blemishes of a nature that do not interfere with the intended application are acceptable for the following tests: expansion test, flattening test, and reverse-bend test. Forged-welded and annealed tubes shall have a completely recrystallized grain structure, and the weld zone shall have a structure typical of hot-forged welds. Fusion-welded and annealed tube shall have a structure typical of a fusion weld on its weld zone. The product shall be clean and free from defects, but blemishes of a nature that do not interfere with the intended application are acceptable.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification establishes requirements for seamless and welded copper-nickel tubes from 0.250 to 2.125 in. (6.35 to 54.0 mm) in diameter for use in heat exchangers in water desalting plants. The following alloys are involved:    
Copper or
Copper Alloy UNS No.  
Type of Metal  
C70600  
90-10 copper-nickel  
C70620  
90-10 copper-nickel
(Modified for Welding)  
C71500  
70-30 copper-nickel  
C71520  
70-30 copper-nickel
(Modified for Welding)  
C71640  
copper-nickel-iron-manganese  
C72200  
copper-nickel  
1.2 Units—Values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 The following safety hazard caveat pertains only to the test methods of Section 16 described in this specification:  This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to its use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Mar-2019
• ICS: 77.150.30 - Copper products
• Technical Committee: B05 - Copper and Copper Alloys
• Drafting Committee: B05.04 - Pipe and Tube

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM B552-12 - Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Copper–Nickel Tubes for Water Desalting Plants
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM E8/E8M-24 - Standard Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM B846-19a - Standard Terminology for Copper and Copper Alloys
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM B846-19 - Standard Terminology for Copper and Copper Alloys
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2019
• Refers: ASTM B601-18a - Standard Classification for Temper Designations for Copper and Copper Alloys—Wrought and Cast
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Refers: ASTM E243-18 - Standard Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Copper and Copper-Alloy Tubes
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2018
• Refers: ASTM B601-18 - Standard Classification for Temper Designations for Copper and Copper Alloys—Wrought and Cast
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2018
• Refers: ASTM B858-06(2018) - Standard Test Method for Ammonia Vapor Test for Determining Susceptibility to Stress Corrosion Cracking in Copper Alloys
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2018
• Refers: ASTM B601-16 - Standard Classification for Temper Designations for Copper and Copper Alloys—Wrought and Cast
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2016
• Refers: ASTM E8/E8M-16 - Standard Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Jul-2016
• Refers: ASTM E8/E8M-15 - Standard Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2015
• Refers: ASTM E243-13 - Standard Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Copper and Copper-Alloy Tubes
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2013
• Refers: ASTM E8/E8M-13 - Standard Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2013
• Refers: ASTM B154-12e1 - Standard Test Method for Mercurous Nitrate Test for Copper Alloys
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2012
• Refers: ASTM B601-12 - Standard Classification for Temper Designations for Copper and Copper Alloys—Wrought and Cast
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2012

Overview

ASTM B552-19 is the established international standard specification for seamless and welded copper-nickel tubes used in heat exchangers within water desalting plants. Issued by ASTM International, this specification sets the framework for manufacturing, chemical composition, mechanical properties, testing, and quality assurance of copper-nickel tubing. The document ensures tubes meet rigorous requirements for reliability, durability, and corrosion resistance in desalination and related water treatment applications.

The standard covers tubes ranging from 0.250 to 2.125 inches (6.35 to 54.0 mm) in diameter, addressing both seamless and welded construction. It applies to a range of copper-nickel alloys, making it relevant for plant designers, engineers, manufacturers, and maintenance teams who value material performance in harsh, saline environments.

Key Topics

• Product Classification: Differentiates between seamless and welded copper-nickel tubes. Seamless tubes are manufactured by hot extrusion or piercing, followed by cold working and annealing. Welded tubes are formed from flat rolled strips, then joined by forge-weld or fusion-weld processes.
• Applicable Alloys: Encompasses copper-nickel alloys such as C70600 (90-10 Cu-Ni), C70620, C71500 (70-30 Cu-Ni), C71520, C71640 (Cu-Ni-Fe-Mn), and C72200.
• Mechanical and Chemical Requirements: Specifies composition limits for copper, nickel, and other elements to ensure corrosion resistance and strength. Sets standards for tensile strength and expansion.
• Testing Protocols:
  • Expansion, Flattening, and Reverse-Bend Tests: Evaluate tube ductility and integrity.
  • Eddy-Current, Hydrostatic, and Pneumatic Tests: Ensure the absence of defects and verify soundness for pressure-bearing applications.
• Manufacturing Tolerances: Details permissible variations in diameter, wall thickness, length, squareness of cut, and straightness, ensuring tubes fit precisely within equipment.
• Workmanship and Quality: Requires clean, defect-free surfaces, proper weld seam finishing, and metallurgical soundness to promote durability.

Applications

ASTM B552-19 is essential for industries designing and operating water desalination plants and related water treatment facilities. The primary application is in heat exchangers exposed to seawater and brackish water, where corrosion-resistance and mechanical reliability are critical.

Typical scenarios benefiting from ASTM B552-19 requirements include:

• Thermal Desalination: Evaporators and condensers in multi-stage flash (MSF) and multi-effect distillation (MED) systems.
• Water Treatment Facilities: Cooling and heat recovery systems subject to saline or aggressive water streams.
• Marine Applications: Shipboard desalting units, oil & gas installations, and offshore platforms requiring robust tubing solutions.
• Maintenance and Replacement: Specifying replacement tubes with assured properties and quality for existing plants.

By standardizing material quality and performance, ASTM B552-19 helps reduce maintenance costs, extend equipment lifespans, and improve operational uptime in challenging environments.

Related Standards

• ASTM B111/B111M - Specification for Copper and Copper-Alloy Seamless Condenser Tubes
• ASTM B153 - Test Method for Expansion (Pin Test) of Copper and Copper-Alloy Pipe and Tubing
• ASTM B154 - Mercurous Nitrate Test for Copper Alloys
• ASTM B601 - Classification for Temper Designations for Copper and Copper Alloys
• ASTM B846 - Terminology for Copper and Copper Alloys
• ASTM B858 - Ammonia Vapor Test for Stress Corrosion Cracking in Copper Alloys
• ASTM E8/E8M - Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
• ASTM E243 - Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Copper and Copper-Alloy Tubes

Adhering to ASTM B552-19 and related standards enables organizations to meet global best practices for copper-nickel tubing in desalination, ensuring safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:B552 −19
Standard Specification for
Seamless and Welded Copper–Nickel Tubes for Water
Desalting Plants
This standard is issued under the fixed designation B552; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This specification establishes requirements for seamless
B153 Test Method for Expansion (Pin Test) of Copper and
and welded copper-nickel tubes from 0.250 to 2.125 in. (6.35
Copper-Alloy Pipe and Tubing
to 54.0 mm) in diameter for use in heat exchangers in water
B154 Test Method for Mercurous Nitrate Test for Copper
desalting plants. The following alloys are involved:
Alloys
Copper or
Type of Metal
B601 Classification forTemper Designations for Copper and
Copper Alloy UNS No.
C70600 90-10 copper-nickel
Copper Alloys—Wrought and Cast
C70620 90-10 copper-nickel
B846 Terminology for Copper and Copper Alloys
(Modified for Welding)
B858 Test Method forAmmoniaVaporTest for Determining
C71500 70-30 copper-nickel
C71520 70-30 copper-nickel
Susceptibility to Stress Corrosion Cracking in Copper
(Modified for Welding)
Alloys
C71640 copper-nickel-iron-manganese
C72200 copper-nickel B968/B968M Test Method for Flattening of Copper and
Copper-Alloy Pipe and Tube
1.2 Units—Values stated in inch-pound units are to be
E3 Guide for Preparation of Metallographic Specimens
regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are
E8/E8M Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Ma-
mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for
terials
information only and are not considered standard.
E62 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Copper and
1.3 The following safety hazard caveat pertains only to the
CopperAlloys (Photometric Methods) (Withdrawn 2010)
test methods of Section 16 described in this specification: This
E76 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Nickel-Copper
standarddoesnotpurporttoaddressallofthesafetyconcerns,
Alloys (Withdrawn 2003)
ifany,associatedwithitsuse.Itistheresponsibilityoftheuser
E118 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Copper-
of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and
Chromium Alloys (Withdrawn 2010)
environmental practices and determine the applicability of
E243 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examina-
regulatory limitations prior to its use.
tion of Copper and Copper-Alloy Tubes
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor- E255 Practice for Sampling Copper and Copper Alloys for
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- the Determination of Chemical Composition
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the E478 Test Methods for ChemicalAnalysis of CopperAlloys
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
3. Terminology
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3.1 For definitions of terms related to copper and copper
alloys, refer to Terminology B846.
1 2
ThisspecificationisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeB05onCopper For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
and CopperAlloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee B05.04 on Pipe contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
and Tube. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved April 1, 2019. Published May 2019. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1971. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as B552–12. DOI: The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
10.1520/B0552–19. www.astm.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
B552−19
4. Classification purity and soundness as to be suitable for processing into the
products prescribed herein.
4.1 Tubes furnished to this specification are classified into
two types, as follows:
6.2 Manufacture:
4.1.1 Seamless tube, and
6.2.1 Seamless Tube—The product shall be manufactured
4.1.2 Welded tube.
bysuchhotextrusionorpiercing,andsubsequentcoldworking
and annealing as to produce a uniform, seamless wrought
5. Ordering Information
structure in the finished product.
5.1 Include the following specified choices when placing
6.2.2 Welded Tube—The product shall be manufactured
orders for products under this specification, as applicable:
fromflatrolledstripwhichissubsequentlyformedandwelded.
5.1.1 ASTM designation and year of issue;
This is usually accomplished by a forge-weld process or a
5.1.2 Copper Alloy UNS number designation;
fusion-weld process.
5.1.3 Whether seamless or welded (Section 4);
6.2.2.1 For forged-welded tube, the edges of the strip shall
5.1.4 Temper (Section 8);
be heated to a required welding temperature, usually by
5.1.5 Dimensions: diameter and wall thickness (whether
high-frequency electric current, and be pressed firmly together
minimum or nominal), and length (Section 12);
causing a forged-type joint to be formed with internal and
5.1.6 Total number of pieces of each size;
external flash or bead.
5.1.7 How furnished, whether in straight lengths or coils;
6.2.2.2 The external flash (that portion of the weld which
and
extends beyond the normal wall) shall always be removed.
5.1.8 Intended application.
6.2.2.3 The internal flash in forge-welded tube shall be
5.2 The following options are available and shall be speci-
removed to the extent that it shall not exceed 0.006 in.
fied in the contract or purchase order when required:
(0.15 mm) in height or 10 % of the nominal wall thickness,
5.2.1 Hydrostatic test (11.3),
whichever is greater.
5.2.2 Pneumatic test (11.4),
6.2.2.4 Fusion-weldedtubeshallbemechanicallyworkedto
5.2.3 Certification (Section 20),
produce a smooth external and internal surface without the
5.2.4 Test report (Section 21),
application of scarfing or other removal of the weld bead.
5.2.5 Package marking of the specification number (Section
6.2.3 The product shall be cold worked and annealed as
22),
necessary to meet properties of the temper specified.
5.2.6 Flattening Test (10.2), and
5.2.7 Reverse Bend Test (10.3).
7. Chemical Composition
6. Materials and Manufacture
7.1 The product shall conform to the chemical composition
6.1 Material:
requirements specified in Table 1 for the Copper Alloy UNS
6.1.1 Seamless Tube—The material of manufacture shall be
number designation specified in the ordering information.
cast billets of the Copper Alloys UNS Nos. C70600, C70620,
7.2 These composition limits do not preclude the presence
C71500, C71520, C71640, and C72200 and shall be of such
of other elements.When required, limits for unnamed elements
quality and soundness as to be suitable for processing into
shall be established and analysis required by agreement be-
finished lengths or coils of tube to meet the properties
tween the manufacture or supplier and purchaser.
prescribed herein.
6.1.2 Welded Tube—The material of manufacture shall be 7.2.1 For copper alloys in which copper is specified as the
strip of one of the Copper Alloy UNS Nos. C70600, C70620, remainder, copper may be taken as the difference between the
C71500, C71520, C71640, and C72200 and shall be of such sum of all the elements analyzed and 100 %.
TABLE 1 Chemical Requirements
Composition, %
Copper or Copper Alloy Copper Nickel Lead, Zinc,
Iron Manganese Phosphorus Other Named Elements
by UNS No. (incl silver) (incl cobalt) max max
C70600 Remainder 9.0–11.0 0.05 1.0–1.8 1.0 1.0 max .
C70620 86.5 min 9.0–11.0 0.02 1.0–1.8 0.50 1.0 max . C 0.05 max
P 0.02 max
S0.02max
C71500 Remainder 29.0–33.0 0.05 0.40 –1.0 1.0 1.0 max .
C71520 65.0 min 29.0–33.0 0.02 0.40–1.0 0.50 1.0 max . C 0.05 max
P 0.02 max
S0.02max
A A A A A
C71640 Remainder 29.0–32.0 0.05 1.7–2.3 1.0 1.5–2.5 C0.06max
A
S0.03max
A A A A
C72200 Remainder 15.0–18.0 0.05 0.50–1.0 1.0 1.0 max Cr 0.30–0.7
Si 0.03 max
A
Ti 0.03 max
A
When the product is for subsequent welding applications and so specified by the purchaser, zinc shall be 0.50 % max, lead 0.02 % max, phosphorus 0.02 % max, sulfur
0.02 % max, and carbon 0.05 % max.
B552−19
7.2.1.1 When all the elements in Table 1 are analyzed, their 10.1.1 Tube specimens selected for test shall withstand the
sum shall be as shown in the following table: expansion shown in Table 3 at one end when tested in
accordance with Test Method B153. The expanded tube shall
Copper Alloy UNS No. Copper Plus Named Elements, % min
be free of defects, but blemishes of a nature that do not
C70600 99.5
interfere with the intended application are acceptable.
C70620 99.5
C71500 99.5
10.2 Flattening Test (Welded and Seamless Tube):
C71520 99.5
10.2.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order, the
C71640 99.5
C72200 99.8 flatteningtestdescribedintheTestMethodsectionin16.3shall
be performed.
8. Temper
10.3 Reverse-Bend Test Requirements (welded tube only):
8.1 Tempers within this specification are as defined in
10.3.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order, the
Classification B601.
reverse bend test described in the Test Method section in 16.4
8.1.1 Seamless Tube—Tubes of Copper Alloy UNS Nos.
shall be performed.
C71500, C71520, and C71640 shall be supplied in either the
10.3.2 The sample shall be free of defects, but blemishes of
annealed (O61) or drawn and stress-relieved (HR50) tempers.
a nature that do not interfere with the intended application are
8.1.1.1 Tubes of CopperAlloy UNS Nos. C70600, C70620,
acceptable.
and C72200 may be supplied in either the light-drawn (H55) or
10.4 Microscopical Examinations:
annealed (O61) temper.
10.4.1 When either the O61 or WO61 annealed temper is
8.1.2 Welded Tube—Tubes of Copper Alloy UNS Nos.
specified, tubes shall be subjected to a microscopical exami-
C70600, C70620, C71500, C71520, C71640, and C72200 are
nation at a magnification of 75 diameters. Samples selected for
normally supplied in either the WO61 (welded and annealed)
test shall show uniform and complete recrystallization, and
or the WC55 (welded and light cold worked) temper as
shall have an average grain size within the limits of 0.010 and
specified in the purchase order, without stress relief treatment.
0.045 mm.
8.2 Tubes shall conform to the tensile requirements shown
10.4.2 Samples of welded and annealed tube and of fully
in Table 2.
finished annealed tube shall be subjected to microscopical
examination at a magnification of 75 diameters.
9. Mechanical Property Requirements
10.4.2.1 Forged-welded and annealed tube shall have a
9.1 Tensile Strength:
completely recrystallized grain structure, and the weld zone
9.1.1 The product shall conform to the tensile strength
shall have a structure typical of hot-forged welds.
requirements prescribed in Table 2 for the temper, alloy and
10.4.2.2 Fusion-welded and annealed tube shall have a
type specified in the ordering information when tested in
completely recrystallized grain structure and the weld zone
accordance with Test Methods E8/E8M.
shall have a structure typical of a fusion weld.
10. Performance Requirements
10.1 Expansion Test Requirements:
TABLE 3 Expansion Test Requirements
Expansion of
Temper
Tube Outside
TABLE 2 Tensile Requirements
Copper Alloy
Diameter, % of
UNS No.
Temper
Copper Alloy Tensile Strength,
Original Outside
Standard Former
UNS No. min, ksi (MPa)
Standard Former Diameter
C70600 O61 annealed 40 (275) C70600 O61 annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 40 (275) WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 45 (310) H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 45 (310) WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
C70620 O61 annealed 40 (275) C70620 O61 annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 40 (275) WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 45 (310) H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 45 (310) WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
C71500 O61 annealed 52 (360) C71500 O61 annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 52 (360) WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 54 (370) H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 54 (370) WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
C71520 O60 annealed 52 (360) C71520 O61 annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 52 (360) WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 54 (370) H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 54 (370) WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
C71640 O61 annealed 63 (435) C71640 O61 annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 63 (435) WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 75 (515) H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 75 (515) WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
C72200 O61 annealed 45 (310) C72200 O61 annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 45 (310) WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 50 (345) H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 50 (345) WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
B552−19
10.4.2.3 Fully finished and annealed tube shall have a turer and the purchaser. Calibration discontinuities may be on
completely recrystallized structure of the metal when cold- the outside tube surface, the internal tube surface, or through
worked and annealed, including the weld zone. wall and shall be spaced to provide signal resolution for
10.4.2.4 Samples selected for test shall be examined micro- adequate interpretation. Each calibration discontinuity shall be
scopically at a magnification of 75 diameters to establish that detected by the eddy-current tester.
the weld interface is metallurgically sound. 11.2.5 Tubes that do not actuate the signaling device of the
eddy-current tester shall be considered as conforming to the
11. Nondestructive Test Requirements requirements of this test. Tubes causing irrelevant signals
becauseofmoisture,soil,andlikeeffectsmaybereconditioned
11.1 Electromagnetic (Eddy-Current) Test (Seamless Tube):
and retested. Such tubes, when retested to the original test
11.1.1 Each tube shall be subjected to an eddy-current test.
parameters, shall be considered to conform if they do not cause
Testing shall follow the procedures of Practice E243. The
output signals beyond the acceptable limits. Tubes causing
purchaser may specify either of the tests in 11.3 or 11.4 as an
irrelevant signals because of identifiable handling marks may
alternative to the eddy-current test.
be retested by the hydrostatic test prescribed in 11.3,orthe
11.1.2 The provisions for the determination of “end-effect”
pneumatic test prescribed in 11.4. Tubes meeting requirements
in Practice E243 shall not apply.
of either test shall be considered to conform if the tube
11.1.3 Either notch depth or drilled hole standards shall be
dimensions are within the prescribed limits, unless otherwise
used.Thedepthoftheround-bottomtransversenotchesandthe
agreed to by the manufacturer or supplier and the purchaser.
diameters of the drilled holes in the calibrating tube used to
11.3 Hydrostatic Test:
adjust the sensitivity of the test are shown in Tables 8–11,
11.3.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order,
respectively.
each tube shall withstand, without showing evidence of
11.1.4 Tubes that do not actuate the signaling device of the
leakage, an internal hydrostatic pressure sufficient to produce a
testing unit shall be considered as conforming to the require-
fiber stress of 7000 psi (48 MPa) as determined by the
ments of the test. Tubes causing irrelevant signals because of
following equation for thin hollow cylinders under tension.
moisture, soil, and like effects may be reconditioned and
The tube need not be subjected to a pressure gauge reading
retested. Such tubes, when retested to the original test
over 1000 psi (7 MPa) unless specifically stipulated in the
parameters, shall be considered to conform if they do not cause
contract or purchase order.
output signals beyond the acceptable limits. Tubes causing
irrelevant signals because of identifiable handling marks may
P 5 2St/~D 2 0.8t! (1)
be retested by the hydrostatic test prescribed in 11.3,orthe
where:
pneumatic test prescribed in 11.4. Tubes meeting requirements
P = hydrostatic pressure, psi (MPa);
of either test shall be considered to conform if the tube
t = wall thickness of the material, in. (mm);
dimensions are within the prescribed limits, unless otherwise
D = outside diameter of the material, in. (mm); and
agreed to by the manufacturer or supplier and the purchaser
S = allowable stress of the material, psi (MPa).
order.
11.4 Pneumatic Test:
11.2 Electromagnetic (Eddy-Current) Test (Welded Tube):
11.4.1 When specified, each tube shall be subjected to a
11.2.1 Each tube shall be passed through an eddy-current
minimum internal air pressure of 60 psig minimum (415 kPa)
testingunitadjustedtoprovideinformationonthesuitabilityof
for 5 s without showing evidence of leakage. The test method
the tube for the intended application. Testing shall follow the
used shall permit easy visual detection of any leakage, such as
procedures of Practice E243, except as modified in 11.2.4.
by having the tube under water or by the pressure-differential
11.2.2 Tube supplied welded and annealed may be tested in
method. Any evidence of leakage shall be cause for rejection.
the welded condition before anneal or heat treatment, unless
otherwise agreed upon between the manufacturer or supplier
12. Dimensions, Mass, and Permissible Variations
andthepurchaser.Thepurchasermayspecifyeitherofthetests
12.1 Diameter—Tubes to be furnishedshall range in outside
in 11.3 or 11.4 as an alternative to the eddy-current test.
diameter, as specified, from 0.250 to 2.125 in. (6.35 to
11.2.3 Either notch depth or drilled hole standards shall be
54.0 mm). The outside diameter of the tubes shall not vary
used.Thedepthoftheround-bottomtransversenotchesandthe
from that specified by more than the amounts shown in Tables
diameters of the drilled holes in the calibrating tube used to
4 and 5 as measured by “go” and “no-go” ring gauges. Where
adjust the sensitivity of the test are shown in Tables 8–11,
no values are shown in the table, dimensions shall be as agreed
respectively.
upon between the purchaser and the manufacturer or supplier.
11.2.4 The discontinuities used to calibrate the test system
12.1.1 When tubes are supplied in coils for straightening at
may be placed in the strip from which the tube will be
jobsite the above tolerances apply to the finished straightened
manufactured. These calibration discontinuities will pass
tubes.
through the continuous operations of forming, welding, and
eddy-current testing. The test unit sensitivity required to detect 12.2 Wall Thickness—Tubes shall be furnished as specified,
the resultant discontinuities shall be equivalent to or greater with wall thicknesses in the range of 0.022 to 0.065 in. (0.559
than that require
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This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: B552 − 12 B552 − 19
Standard Specification for
Seamless and Welded Copper–Nickel Tubes for Water
Desalting Plants
This standard is issued under the fixed designation B552; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 This specification establishes requirements for seamless and welded copper-nickel tubes from 0.250 to 2.125 in. (6.35 to
54.0 mm) in diameter for use in heat exchangers in water desalting plants. The following alloys are involved:
Copper or
Type of Metal
Copper Alloy UNS No.
C70600 90-10 copper-nickel
C70620 90-10 copper-nickel
(Modified for Welding)
C71500 70-30 copper-nickel
C71520 70-30 copper-nickel
(Modified for Welding)
C71640 copper-nickel-iron-manganese
C72200 copper-nickel
1.2 Units—Values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.3 The following safety hazard caveat pertains only to the test methods of Section 16 described in this specification: This
standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user
of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the applicability
of regulatory limitations prior to its use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
B111/B111M Specification for Copper and Copper-Alloy Seamless Condenser Tubes and Ferrule Stock
B153 Test Method for Expansion (Pin Test) of Copper and Copper-Alloy Pipe and Tubing
B154 Test Method for Mercurous Nitrate Test for Copper Alloys
B543 Specification for Welded Copper and Copper-Alloy Heat Exchanger Tube [Metric] (Discontinued 2000) B0543_B0543M
B601 Classification for Temper Designations for Copper and Copper Alloys—Wrought and Cast
B846 Terminology for Copper and Copper Alloys
B858 Test Method for Ammonia Vapor Test for Determining Susceptibility to Stress Corrosion Cracking in Copper Alloys
B968/B968M Test Method for Flattening of Copper and Copper-Alloy Pipe and Tube
E3 Guide for Preparation of Metallographic Specimens
E8/E8M Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
E62 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Copper and Copper Alloys (Photometric Methods) (Withdrawn 2010)
E76 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Nickel-Copper Alloys (Withdrawn 2003)
E118 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Copper-Chromium Alloys (Withdrawn 2010)
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee B05 on Copper and Copper Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee B05.04 on Pipe and
Tube.
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2012April 1, 2019. Published November 2012May 2019. Originally approved in 1971. Last previous edition approved in 20082012 as
B552 – 08.B552–12. DOI: 10.1520/B0552-12.10.1520/B0552–19.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’sstandard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
B552 − 19
E243 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Copper and Copper-Alloy Tubes
E255 Practice for Sampling Copper and Copper Alloys for the Determination of Chemical Composition
E478 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Copper Alloys
E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications
E112 Test Methods for Determining Average Grain Size
3. Terminology
3.1 For definitions of terms related to copper and copper alloys, refer to Terminology B846.
4. Classification
4.1 Tubes furnished to this specification are classified into two types, as follows:
4.1.1 Seamless tube, and
4.1.2 Welded tube.
5. Ordering Information
5.1 Include the following specified choices when placing orders for products under this specification, as applicable:
5.1.1 ASTM designation and year of issue,issue;
5.1.2 Copper Alloy UNS number designation,designation;
5.1.3 Whether seamless or welded (Section 4), );
5.1.4 Temper (Section 8),);
5.1.5 Dimensions: diameter and wall thickness (whether minimum or nominal), and length (Section 12),);
5.1.6 Total number of pieces of each size,size;
5.1.7 How furnished, whether in straight lengths or coils,coils; and
5.1.8 Intended application.
5.2 The following options are available and shall be specified in the contract or purchase order when required:
5.2.1 Hydrostatic test (11.3),
5.2.2 Pneumatic test (11.4),
5.2.3 Certification (Section 20),
5.2.4 Test report (Section 21), and
5.2.5 Package marking of the specification number (Section 22).),
5.2.6 Flattening Test (10.2), and
5.2.7 Reverse Bend Test (10.3).
6. Materials and Manufacture
6.1 Material:
6.1.1 Seamless Tube—The material of manufacture shall be cast billets of the Copper Alloys UNS Nos. C70600, C70620,
C71500, C71520, C71640, and C72200 and shall be of such quality and soundness as to be suitable for processing into finished
lengths or coils of tube to meet the properties prescribed herein.
6.1.2 Welded Tube—The material of manufacture shall be strip of one of the Copper Alloy UNS Nos. C70600, C70620, C71500,
C71520, C71640, and C72200 and shall be of such purity and soundness as to be suitable for processing into the products
prescribed herein.
6.2 Manufacture:
6.2.1 Seamless Tube—The product shall be manufactured by such hot extrusion or piercing, and subsequent cold working and
annealing as to produce a uniform, seamless wrought structure in the finished product.
6.2.2 Welded Tube—The product shall be manufactured from flat rolled strip which is subsequently formed and welded. This
is usually accomplished by a forge-weld process or a fusion-weld process.
6.2.2.1 For forged-welded tube, the edges of the strip shall be heated to a required welding temperature, usually by
high-frequency electric current, and be pressed firmly together causing a forged-type joint to be formed with internal and external
flash or bead.
6.2.2.2 The external flash (that portion of the weld which extends beyond the normal wall) shall always be removed.
6.2.2.3 The internal flash in forge-welded tube shall be removed to the extent that it shall not exceed 0.006 in. (0.15 mm) in
height or 10 % of the nominal wall thickness, whichever is greater.
6.2.2.4 Fusion-welded tube shall be mechanically worked to produce a smooth external and internal surface without the
application of scarfing or other removal of the weld bead.
6.2.3 The product shall be cold worked and annealed as necessary to meet properties of the temper specified.
B552 − 19
7. Chemical Composition
7.1 The product shall conform to the chemical composition requirements specified in Table 1 for the Copper Alloy UNS number
designation specified in the ordering information.
7.2 These composition limits do not preclude the presence of other elements. When required, limits for unnamed elements shall
be established and analysis required by agreement between the manufacture or supplier and purchaser.
7.2.1 For copper alloys in which copper is specified as the remainder, copper may be taken as the difference between the sum
of all the elements analyzed and 100 %.
TABLE 1 Chemical Requirements
Composition, %
Copper or Copper Alloy Copper Nickel Lead, Iron Zinc, Manganese Phosphorus Other named elements
by UNS No. (incl silver) (incl cobalt) max max
C70600 Remainder 9.0 – 11.0 0.05 1.0 – 1.8 1.0 1.0
C70620 86.5 min 9.0 – 11.0 .02 1.0 – 1.8 .50 1.0 C .05 max
P .02 max
S .02 max
C71500 Remainder 29.0 – 33.0 0.05 .40 – 1.0 1.0 1.0
C71520 65.0 min 29.0 – 33.0 .02 .40 – 1.0 .50 1.0 C .05 max
P .02 max
S .02 max
A A A A A
C71640 Remainder 29.0 – 32.0 0.05 1.7 – 2.3 1.0 1.5 – 2.5 C .06 max
A
S .03 max
A A A A
C72200 Remainder 15.0 – 18.0 0.05 .50 – 1.0 1.0 1.0 Cr 0.30 – 0.7
Si .03 max
A
Ti .03 max
TABLE 1 Chemical Requirements
Composition, %
Copper or Copper Alloy Copper Nickel Lead, Zinc,
Iron Manganese Phosphorus Other Named Elements
by UNS No. (incl silver) (incl cobalt) max max
C70600 Remainder 9.0–11.0 0.05 1.0–1.8 1.0 1.0 max .
C70620 86.5 min 9.0–11.0 0.02 1.0–1.8 0.50 1.0 max . C 0.05 max
P 0.02 max
S 0.02 max
C71500 Remainder 29.0–33.0 0.05 0.40 –1.0 1.0 1.0 max .
C71520 65.0 min 29.0–33.0 0.02 0.40–1.0 0.50 1.0 max . C 0.05 max
P 0.02 max
S 0.02 max
A A A A A
C71640 Remainder 29.0–32.0 0.05 1.7–2.3 1.0 1.5–2.5 C 0.06 max
A
S 0.03 max
A A A A
C72200 Remainder 15.0–18.0 0.05 0.50–1.0 1.0 1.0 max Cr 0.30–0.7
Si 0.03 max
A
Ti 0.03 max
A
When the product is for subsequent welding applications and so specified by the purchaser, zinc shall be 0.50 % max, lead 0.02 % max, phosphorus 0.02 % max, sulfur
0.02 % max, and carbon 0.05 % max.
B552 − 19
7.2.1.1 When all the elements in Table 1 are analyzed, their sum shall be as shown in the following table:
Copper Alloy UNS No. Copper Plus Named Elements, % min
C70600 99.5
C70620 99.5
C71500 99.5
C71520 99.5
C71640 99.5
C72200 99.8
8. Temper
8.1 Tempers within this specification are as defined in Classification B601.
8.1.1 Seamless Tube—Tubes of Copper Alloy UNS Nos. C71500, C71520, and C71640 shall be supplied in either the annealed
(061)(O61) or drawn and stress-relieved (HR50) tempers.
8.1.1.1 Tubes of Copper Alloy UNS Nos. C70600, C70620, and C72200 may be supplied in either the light-drawn (H55) or
annealed (061)(O61) temper.
8.1.2 Welded Tube—Tubes of Copper Alloy UNS Nos. C70600, C70620, C71500, C71520, C71640, and C72200 are normally
supplied in either the WO61 (welded and annealed) or the WC55 (welded and light cold worked) temper as specified in the
purchase order, without stress relief treatment.
8.2 Tubes shall conform to the tensile requirements shown in Table 2.
9. Mechanical Property Requirements
9.1 Tensile Strength:
9.1.1 The product shall conform to the tensile strength requirements prescribed in Table 2 for the temper, alloy and type
specified in the ordering information when tested in accordance with Test Methods E8/E8M.
10. Performance Requirements
10.1 Expansion Test Requirements:
10.1.1 Tube specimens selected for test shall withstand the expansion shown in Table 3 at one end when tested in accordance
with Test Method B153. The expanded tube shall be free of defects, but blemishes of a nature that do not interfere with the intended
application are acceptable.
10.2 Flattening Test (Welded and Seamless Tube):
TABLE 2 Tensile Requirements
Temper
Copper Alloy Tensile Strength,
UNS No. min, ksi (MPa)
Standard Former
Copper Alloy Temper Tensile Strength,
UNS No. Standard Former min, ksi (MPa)
C70600 O61 annealed 40 (275)
W061 welded and annealed 40 (275)
WO61 welded and annealed 40 (275)
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 45 (310)
WC55 welded and light cold worked 45 (310)
C70620 061 annealed 40 (275)
C70620 O61 annealed 40 (275)
WO61 welded and annealed 40 (275)
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 45 (310)
WC55 welded and light cold worked 45 (310)
C71500 O61 annealed 52 (360)
WO61 welded and annealed 52 (360)
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 54 (370)
WC55 welded and light cold worked 54 (370)
C71520 060 annealed 52 (360)
C71520 O60 annealed 52 (360)
WO61 welded and annealed 52 (360)
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 54 (370)
WC55 welded and light cold worked 54 (370)
C71640 O61 annealed 63 (435)
WO61 welded and annealed 63 (435)
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 75 (515)
WC55 welded and light cold worked 75 (515)
C72200 O61 annealed 45 (310)
WO61 welded and annealed 45 (310)
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 50 (345)
WC55 welded and light cold worked 50 (345)
B552 − 19
TABLE 3 Expansion Test Requirements
Expansion of
Temper
Tube Outside
Copper Alloy
Diameter, % of
UNS No.
Original Outside
Standard Former
Diameter
Temper Expansion of
Tube Outside
Copper Alloy
Diameter, % of
UNS No.
Original Outside
Standard Former
Diameter
C70600 O61 annealed 30
W061 welded and annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
C70620 061 annealed 30
C70620 O61 annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
C71500 O61 annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
C71520 061 annealed 30
C71520 O61 annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
C71640 O61 annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
C72200 O61 annealed 30
WO61 welded and annealed 30
H55 light drawn, light cold worked 15
WC55 welded and light cold worked 15
10.2.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order, the flattening test described in the Test Method section 16.3in 16.3 shall
be performed.
10.3 Reverse-Bend Test Requirements (welded tube only):
10.3.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order, the reverse bend test described in the Test Method section in 16.416.4
shall be performed.
10.3.2 The sample shall be free of defects, but blemishes of a nature that do not interfere with the intended application are
acceptable.
10.4 Microscopical Examinations:
10.4.1 When either the 061O61 or WO61 annealed temper is specified, tubes shall be subjected to a microscopical examination
at a magnification of 75 diameters. Samples selected for test shall show uniform and complete recrystallization, and shall have an
average grain size within the limits of 0.010 and 0.045 mm.
10.4.2 Samples of welded and annealed tube and of fully finished annealed tube shall be subjected to microscopical examination
at a magnification of 75 diameters.
10.4.2.1 Forged-welded and annealed tube shall have a completely recrystallized grain structure, and the weld zone shall have
a structure typical of hot-forged welds.
10.4.2.2 Fusion-welded and annealed tube shall have a completely recrystallized grain structure and the weld zone shall have
a structure typical of a fusion weld.
10.4.2.3 Fully finished and annealed tube shall have a completely recrystallized structure of the metal when cold-worked and
annealed, including the weld zone.
10.4.2.4 Samples selected for test shall be examined microscopically at a magnification of 75 diameters to establish that the
weld interface is metallurgically sound.
11. Nondestructive Test Requirements
11.1 Electromagnetic (Eddy-Current) Test (Seamless Tube):
11.1.1 Each tube shall be subjected to an eddy-current test. Testing shall follow the procedures of Practice E243. The purchaser
may specify either of the tests in 11.3 or 11.4 as an alternative to the eddy-current test.
11.1.2 The provisions for the determination of “end-effect” in Practice E243 shall not apply.
B552 − 19
11.1.3 Either notch depth or drilled hole standards shall be used. The depth of the round-bottom transverse notches and the
diameters of the drilled holes in the calibrating tube used to adjust the sensitivity of the test are shown in Table 6 and Table 7,
Tables 8–11, respectively.
11.1.4 Tubes that do not actuate the signaling device of the testing unit shall be considered as conforming to the requirements
of the test. Tubes causing irrelevant signals because of moisture, soil, and like effects may be reconditioned and retested. Such
tubes, when retested to the original test parameters, shall be considered to conform if they do not cause output signals beyond the
acceptable limits. Tubes causing irrelevant signals because of identifiable handling marks may be retested by the hydrostatic test
prescribed in 11.311.3,, or the pneumatic test prescribed in 11.411.4. Tubes meeting requirements of either test shall be considered
to conform if the tube dimensions are within the prescribed limits, unless otherwise agreed to by the manufacturer or supplier and
the purchaser order.
11.2 Electromagnetic (Eddy-Current) Test (Welded Tube):
11.2.1 Each tube shall be passed through an eddy-current testing unit adjusted to provide information on the suitability of the
tube for the intended application. Testing shall follow the procedures of Practice E243, except as modified in 11.2.411.2.4.
11.2.2 Tube supplied welded and annealed may be tested in the welded condition before anneal or heat treatment, unless
otherwise agreed upon between the manufacturer or supplier and the purchaser. The purchaser may specify either of the tests in
11.311.3 or 11.411.4 as an alternative to the eddy-current test.
11.2.3 Either notch depth or drilled hole standards shall be used. The depth of the round-bottom transverse notches and the
diameters of the drilled holes in the calibrating tube used to adjust the sensitivity of the test are shown in Table 6 and Table 7,
Tables 8–11, respectively.
11.2.4 The discontinuities used to calibrate the test system may be placed in the strip from which the tube will be manufactured.
These calibration discontinuities will pass through the continuous operations of forming, welding, and eddy-current testing. The
test unit sensitivity required to detect the resultant discontinuities shall be equivalent to or greater than that required to detect the
notches or drilled hole of Table 6 and Table 7, Tables 8–11, respectively, or other calibration discontinuities that may be used by
mutual agreement between the manufacturer and the purchaser. Calibration discontinuities may be on the outside tube surface, the
internal tube surface, or through wall and shall be spaced to provide signal resolution for adequate interpretation. Each calibration
discontinuity shall be detected by the eddy-current tester.
11.2.5 Tubes that do not actuate the signaling device of the eddy-current tester shall be considered as conforming to the
requirements of this test. Tubes causing irrelevant signals because of moisture, soil, and like effects may be reconditioned and
retested. Such tubes, when retested to the original test parameters, shall be considered to conform if they do not cause output
signals beyond the acceptable limits. Tubes causing irrelevant signals because of identifiable handling marks may be retested by
the hydrostatic test prescribed in 11.311.3,, or the pneumatic test prescribed in 11.411.4. Tubes meeting requirements of either test
shall be considered to conform if the tube dimensions are within the prescribed limits, unless otherwise agreed to by the
manufacturer or supplier and the purchaser.
11.3 Hydrostatic Test:
11.3.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order, each tube shall withstand, without showing evidence of leakage, an
internal hydrostatic pressure sufficient to produce a fiber stress of 7000 psi (48 MPa) as determined by the following equation for
thin hollow cylinders under tension. The tube need not be subjected to a pressure gagegauge reading over 1000 psi (7 MPa) unless
specifically stipulated in the contract or purchase order.
P 5 2St/~D 2 0.8t! (1)
where:
P = hydrostatic pressure, psi (MPa);
t = wall thickness of the material, in. (mm);
D = outside diameter of the material, in. (mm); and
S = allowable stress of the material, psi (MPa).
11.4 Pneumatic Test:
11.4.1 When specified, each tube shall be subjected to a minimum internal air pressure of 60 psig minimum (415 kPa) for 5 s
without showing evidence of leakage. The test method used shall permit easy visual detection of any leakage, such as by having
the tube under water or by the pressure-differential method. Any evidence of leakage shall be cause for rejection.
12. Dimensions, Mass, and Permissible Variations
12.1 Diameter—Tubes to be furnished shall range in outside diameter, as specified, from .2500.250 to 2.125 in. (6.35 to 54.0
mm). 54.0 mm). The outside diameter of the tubes shall not vary from that specified by more than the amounts shown in Table
4Tables 4 and 5 as measured by “go” and “no-go” ring gages.gauges. Where no values are shown in the table, dimensions shall
be as agreed upon between th
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