Main Manufacturing Processes of Finned Tubes

Finned tubes are essential components in modern heat exchangers, and their performance largely depends on the manufacturing process used to attach fins to the base tube. Various processing methods have been developed to meet different temperature, pressure, and efficiency requirements across industries. Among them, three major categories are widely recognized: high-frequency welded fins, extruded fins, and embedded or gilled fins.

High-frequency welded fin tubes are produced by welding steel fins onto the base tube using high-frequency resistance welding. This method creates a strong metallurgical bond, ensuring excellent mechanical strength and durability. Because of their high resistance to thermal stress, welded fin tubes are commonly used in high-temperature applications such as boilers, power plants, and petrochemical equipment.

Extruded fin tubes are manufactured by mechanically extruding aluminum or copper sleeves over a base tube while forming integral fins simultaneously. This process produces a seamless connection between the fins and the tube, offering superior thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance. Extruded fin tubes are especially effective in gas-to-liquid heat transfer and are widely used in air coolers, refrigeration systems, and HVAC equipment.

Embedded or gilled fin tubes utilize a technique where the fin strip is inserted into a machined groove on the tube surface and then mechanically locked in place. This method provides good heat transfer and moderate mechanical strength, making it suitable for medium-temperature applications.