Applications of Seamless Steel Pipes in the Energy Sector

Seamless steel pipes, with their core advantages of weld-free joints, high strength, and resistance to pressure and temperature, serve as critical piping materials in the energy sector. They ensure the safe transportation of key media and stable system operation, with applications spanning three major segments: oil and gas, electric power, and new energy. Each scenario demands specific technical requirements for adaptation.

I. Oil and Gas Sector: Core Piping for Long-Distance Pipelines and Wellhead Equipment​

In oil and gas exploration, development, and transportation, seamless steel pipes must withstand high pressure, corrosion, and complex geological environments. Their main applications include: ​

Long-distance pipeline trunks: Large-diameter (DN500+) and high-grade hot-rolled seamless steel pipes are commonly used, requiring resistance to hydrogen sulfide corrosion and low-temperature toughness. For example, in the West-East Gas Pipeline project, seamless steel pipes must endure transportation pressures of 10–12 MPa while resisting soil corrosion and temperature-induced stress.

Wellheads and production equipment: Thick-walled (10–30 mm thickness) alloy seamless steel pipes, such as chromium-molybdenum steel, are utilized. These pipes withstand wellhead pressures exceeding 30 MPa and formation temperatures above 150°C, serving as oil casings and production tubing to prevent oil and gas leaks and pipe rupture.

II. Electric Power Sector: High-Temperature and High-Pressure Carriers for Power Plant Boilers and Nuclear Systems

In power generation, seamless steel pipes must adapt to high-temperature, high-pressure steam environments, with key applications including:

Thermal power plant boilers: Heat-resistant alloy seamless steel pipes are used in water walls, superheaters, and reheater pipelines. These pipes must withstand long-term temperatures of 450–550°C and steam pressures of 10–15 MPa, ensuring efficient heat transfer without oxidative corrosion.​

Nuclear power systems: Radiation-resistant, high-strength stainless steel seamless pipes are employed in reactor coolant pipelines and steam generator heat transfer tubes. They meet stringent sealing and fatigue resistance requirements to prevent radioactive medium leakage.​

III. New Energy Sector: Special Adaptations for Hydrogen Energy and Photovoltaic Industries

With the growth of the new energy industry, seamless steel pipes have expanded into specialized applications with customized features:

Hydrogen energy transportation: 316L stainless steel seamless pipes, with polished inner walls to reduce hydrogen embrittlement risks, are used in high-pressure hydrogen pipelines (35 MPa/70 MPa). They support hydrogen refueling stations for heavy-duty trucks and industrial by-product hydrogen transportation systems.​

Photovoltaic silicon production: Heat-resistant stainless steel seamless pipes are used in chlorine gas reduction furnace pipelines for chlorine and hydrogen transportation. These pipes withstand 200–300°C temperatures and highly corrosive gases, preventing pipe corrosion that could compromise silicon purity.

In summary, the quality and performance of seamless steel pipes are crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of energy production and transportation. They are essential basic materials that support the stable operation of the energy industry.