GB/T 8890 Seamless Copper Alloy Heat Exchanger Tubes

References other standards such as:  

- GB/T 228 (tensile testing)  

- GB/T 5121 (chemical analysis of copper alloys)  

- GB/T 5248 (non-destructive testing for copper tubes)

Buyers should specify the following when ordering:  

● Standard number (GB/T 8890)  

● Material code/alloy designation (e.g., HSn70-1, BFe10-1-1)  

● Dimensions (outer diameter, wall thickness, length)  

● Surface condition (bare, coated, etc.)  

● Testing requirements (e.g., hydrostatic, eddy current, or ultrasonic testing)  

● Special requirements (if any)

Common alloys covered:  

- HSn70-1 (Tin brass)  

- BFe10-1-1 (Copper-nickel alloy)  

- BFe30-1-1 (Cu-Ni-Fe alloy)  

- Others (e.g., HAl77-2, H68A)  

Chemical composition limits for each alloy are specified (e.g., Cu, Ni, Fe, Sn, Zn percentages).

- Production method: Seamless, cold-drawn or hot-extruded.  

- Dimensional tolerances: Outer diameter (±0.10–0.50 mm), wall thickness (±5–10% of nominal thickness).  

- Length: Fixed or random lengths, typically 1–7 meters.

- Tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation requirements vary by alloy (e.g., HSn70-1: tensile strength ≥295 MPa).  

- Hardness (optional, per agreement).

- Chemical analysis: Per GB/T 5121.  

- Mechanical tests: Tensile testing (GB/T 228).  

- Hydrostatic pressure test (optional, per customer request).  

- Non-destructive testing (NDT): Eddy current (GB/T 5248) or ultrasonic testing.  

- Surface quality: Visual inspection for defects (cracks, scratches, etc.).  

- Dimensional inspection: Verify OD, wall thickness, and straightness.

- Tubes must be free from cracks, inclusions, and severe scratches.  

- Minor surface imperfections allowed if within dimensional tolerances.

- Marking: Includes manufacturer’s name, alloy grade, dimensions, batch number, and standard number (GB/T 8890).  

- Packaging: Bundled with protective coatings to prevent corrosion during transit.

Manufacturers must provide a test certificate including:  

- Chemical composition,  

- Mechanical test results,  

- NDT reports (if applicable),  

- Compliance statement with GB/T 8890.  

The GB/T 8890 standard covers several copper alloy material codes used for seamless heat exchanger and condenser tubes. Below is a list of the primary material codes (alloy designations) specified in the latest version of the standard (as of current updates):  

Material Codes (Alloy Designations) in GB/T 8890  

1. Brass Alloys  

- H68A – Copper-zinc alloy (68% Cu, rest Zn)  

- HSn70-1 – Tin brass (70% Cu, ~1% Sn, rest Zn)  

- HAI77-2 – Aluminum brass (77% Cu, ~2% Al, rest Zn)  

2. Copper-Nickel Alloys (Cu-Ni)  

- BFe10-1-1 – 90% Cu, 10% Ni, ~1% Fe, ~1% Mn  

- BFe30-1-1 – 66% Cu, 30% Ni, ~1% Fe, ~1% Mn  

3. Other Copper Alloys  

(May include additional grades depending on the latest revision)  

 Key Notes:  

- Chemical composition limits (e.g., Cu%, Ni%, Fe%, Sn%) are specified for each alloy.  

- Mechanical properties (tensile strength, yield strength, elongation) vary by material code.  

- Application suitability depends on corrosion resistance (e.g., seawater, steam, chemical environments).