Self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) wear-resistant ceramic pipes (commonly known as self-propagating composite steel pipes or SHS ceramic composite pipes) are composite pipes that combine the high strength and toughness of steel pipes with the high hardness and wear resistance of ceramics.
Simply put, it utilizes a special "combustion" chemical reaction to instantly generate a dense layer of corundum ceramic inside the steel pipe. This process is called self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS).
To give you a more intuitive understanding, I have compiled its core definition and detailed performance characteristics for you:
What are self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) wear-resistant ceramic pipes?
Their manufacturing process is unique: a mixture of aluminum powder and iron oxide powder (thermite) is placed inside a steel pipe, and a violent chemical reaction is initiated by electronic ignition. This reaction instantly generates temperatures exceeding 2000℃, causing the reaction products to separate and stratify under the influence of centrifugal force.
Its structure consists of three layers from inside to outside:
Inner layer (ceramic layer): The main component is corundum (α-Al₂O₃), which is dense and hard.
Middle layer (transition layer): Primarily molten iron, acting as a "bridge" connecting the ceramic and steel pipe.
Outer layer (steel pipe layer): Provides mechanical strength and toughness, facilitating welding and installation.
Product Features
Extreme Wear Resistance
This is its core advantage. The corundum ceramic lining has a hardness second only to diamond, significantly extending the lifespan of pipes used for conveying media containing solid particles (such as pulverized coal, ash, and mineral sand). In industries such as power generation and mining, using this type of pipe can extend its service life from a few months to several years.
Key Performance Characteristics
| Performance Aspect |
Specific Indicators & Features |
Practical Application Value |
| Wear Resistance |
Mohs hardness up to 9.0 (HRC90+) |
Service life is 10-30 times longer than standard steel pipes; more wear-resistant than quenched steel. |
| High-Temperature Resistance |
Long-term operating temperature: -50℃ ～ 700℃ |
Stable operation in high-temperature environments; short-term resistance can reach above 900℃ for some variants. |
| Corrosion Resistance |
Chemically stable, resistant to acid/alkali, and anti-scaling |
Suitable for corrosive media (e.g., sour gas, seawater) and prevents internal scaling. |
| Flow Resistance |
Smooth inner surface with low roughness |
Friction factor of approx. 0.0193 (lower than seamless steel pipes), resulting in lower operating costs. |
| Mechanical Properties |
Good toughness, weldable, lightweight |
Retains the convenience of steel welding; approx. 50% lighter than cast stone pipes, facilitating installation. |
Unique "Self-Propagating Combustion" Bonding Method
Unlike ordinary adhesive-bonded ceramic pipes, the self-propagating combustion process uses high-temperature melting to "grow" the ceramic, transition layer, and steel pipe together, forming a metallurgical bond. This means the ceramic layer will not easily detach like adhesive patches, resulting in extremely high bonding strength and better resistance to mechanical impact.
Excellent Thermal Shock Resistance
Although ceramics are usually perceived as "brittle," this composite pipe, due to the support of the steel pipe and the cushioning of the transition layer, can withstand drastic temperature changes (thermal shock) without cracking due to alternating hot and cold conditions.
Economical and Environmentally Friendly
Although the initial purchase cost may be higher than that of ordinary steel pipes, its extremely long lifespan, low maintenance costs, and low operating resistance (resulting in energy savings) ultimately lead to lower overall project costs. At the same time, it does not contaminate the conveyed medium (such as molten aluminum), making it an irreplaceable material in certain industrial fields.
Main Application Scenarios
Based on the above characteristics, it is typically used in extremely harsh working conditions:
Power industry: Ash removal and slag discharge, pulverized coal conveying.
Mining and metallurgy: Tailings conveying, concentrate powder conveying.
Coal industry: Coal-water slurry conveying, coal chutes.
Chemical industry: Conveying corrosive gases or liquids.
If you are facing conveying challenges involving high wear, high temperature, or strong corrosion, self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) wear-resistant ceramic pipes are an ideal choice.
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