What is an H-type Fin Tube?

An H-type fin tube is a heat exchanger element used for heat exchange, usually consisting of a tube and many closely arranged fins, which can be fixed to the tube or seamlessly connected to the tube. The shape of the fins usually presents an “H” shape, hence the name H-type fin tube.

Structural features of H-type fin tubes

The basic forms of H-type fin tubes are “H” type and double “H” type, arranged in series. Its structural features include:

‌Expanded surface area‌: By adding fins to the tube, the heat exchange area is significantly increased, and the heat transfer efficiency between the flue gas and the working medium (such as water or steam) is improved.

‌Anti-ash accumulation design‌: The narrow channels between the H-type fins form a “flue gas corridor”, which makes it difficult for fly ash particles to deposit under the drive of airflow, reducing the risk of blockage.

‌Wear resistance‌: The welding process enhances the overall rigidity, which is more wear-resistant than other types of fin tubes, and is especially suitable for flue gas environments with high ash concentrations.

‌Low flow resistance‌: The H-type arrangement reduces the flow resistance of flue gas and reduces the power consumption of the induced draft fan‌.

Application scenarios of H-type finned tubes

H-type finned tubes are widely used in various occasions that require efficient heat exchange, especially in the flue gas waste heat recovery system of power station boilers, industrial boilers, industrial kilns, and ship power units. Due to its excellent anti-ashing ability and wear resistance, H-type finned tubes perform well in these high-ash environments, which can effectively improve the utilization rate of fuel and reduce exhaust heat loss‌.

An H-fin tube (or “H-type finned tube”) is a high-efficiency heat transfer component characterized by its distinctive H-shaped fins, which are mechanically or hydraulically expanded onto a base tube. This design maximizes heat dissipation in demanding industrial applications.

1. Structure & Design

• Base Tube: Typically carbon steel or stainless steel, serving as the primary conduit for heat transfer fluids.
• H-Fins: Rectangular metal strips (usually aluminum or steel) bent into an “H” profile and bonded to the tube. The H-shape creates two parallel contact surfaces with the base tube, doubling the heat transfer area compared to conventional L-fin designs.
• Bonding Method: Fins are attached through hydraulic expansion or hot-dip galvanizing, ensuring a gap-free connection to minimize thermal resistance.

2. Key Advantages

• Enhanced Heat Transfer: The H-profile increases surface area by 2–3 times versus smooth tubes, while maintaining low airside resistance.
• Durability: Robust fin-tube contact resists vibration and thermal cycling, with a lifespan exceeding 15 years in power plants.
• Anti-Fouling: Wide fin spacing (8–12mm) reduces dust accumulation, ideal for flue gas waste heat recovery.

3. Applications

• Power Generation: Boiler economizers and air preheaters in coal-fired plants.
• Petrochemical: Crude oil heaters and sulfur condensers.
• HVAC: Industrial air handlers requiring high thermal efficiency.

4. Comparison with Other Fin Types

FeatureH-Fin TubeL-Fin TubeFin ShapeH-profile (dual contact)Single-contact spiralEfficiency15–20% higherModerateMaintenanceLow fouling riskRequires frequent cleaning

Conclusion

H-fin tubes excel in high-temperature, high-fouling environments by combining mechanical stability with superior heat transfer performance. Their design is particularly favored in energy-intensive industries where reliability and efficiency are critical.