Thermal Expansion Coefficient Table

CTE Values for Materials


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Information and Definitions

Thermal Expansion Coefficient (α)

The linear thermal expansion coefficient quantifies how a material’s length changes with temperature: α = (1/L)·(dL/dT). Values are typically reported in 1/°C (or 1/K). Use the same unit system across calculations to avoid scaling errors.

Typical Magnitudes

  • Metals: ~8–25 × 10⁻⁶ 1/°C (steels near the low end, aluminum near the high end)
  • Plastics: often higher and more temperature-dependent
  • Ceramics: generally low; good dimensional stability

Common Uses in Engineering

  • Pipe stress and supports: ΔL = α·L·ΔT to estimate growth in long runs.
  • Flange and gasket selection: Differential expansion between materials affects sealing.
  • Instrumentation: Sensor bodies and housings shift with temperature; allowances prevent drift and binding.
  • Clearance and alignment: Shafts, bearings, and couplings must accommodate thermal growth.

Temperature Dependence

α is not perfectly constant; many materials show higher α as temperature rises. When large ΔT is involved, use temperature-specific coefficients or integrate across the range.

Volumetric vs. Linear

For isotropic solids, volumetric coefficient β ≈ 3·α. Use β when dealing with volume change in tanks or blocks rather than length change.

Data Quality Notes

Values are representative averages. For critical fit-up or stress analysis, consult vendor data or certified material property databases and match the temperature range to your design conditions.

Thermal Expansion Coefficient References

1 CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics (106th Edition, 2025-2026) — Linear and volumetric thermal expansion coefficients for solids and liquids.

2 Perry's Chemical Engineers' Handbook (10th Edition) — Material properties and thermal expansion data for engineering materials.

3 ASHRAE Handbook — Fundamentals (latest edition) — Thermal expansion of building materials and fluids for HVAC applications.

4 ASTM E228 / ISO 11359-2 — Standard Test Method for Linear Thermal Expansion of Solid Materials (dilatometry).

5 ASTM E289 / ISO 11359-1 — Standard Test Method for Linear Thermal Expansion of Rigid Solids With a Push-Rod Dilatometer.

6 NIST Chemistry WebBook (https://webbook.nist.gov/) — Thermal expansion data for selected fluids and solids.

7 Yaws, C. L. (2015) Transport Properties of Chemicals and Hydrocarbons, 2nd Edition — Thermal expansion and density correlations.

8 CINDAS Thermophysical Properties Database — Evaluated thermal expansion data for metals, alloys, and ceramics.

9 Engineering ToolBox — Thermal Expansion Coefficients for common materials (https://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/).

10 API Technical Data Book – Petroleum Refining (9th Edition) — Thermal expansion factors for hydrocarbon liquids.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 What is the thermal expansion coefficient?

A1 It measures how much a material expands or contracts per degree of temperature change (typically in 1/°C or 1/K). It is essential to estimate elongation, clearances, and thermal stresses in piping and equipment.

Q2 How do I use the table on this page?

A2 Select the material (e.g., carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, aluminum), take its thermal expansion coefficient, and multiply by the original length and the expected temperature change to estimate the length variation.

Q3 Is the coefficient constant with temperature?

A3 Not exactly. For many metals it changes slightly with temperature. The table provides representative values; for wide or critical ranges, use supplier data or ASTM material datasheets.

Q4 Why does it matter for piping and supports?

A4 Temperature swings change pipe length. If not accommodated, they can cause excessive stress, flange leaks, or misalignment of pumps, exchangers, and valves. Expansion joints, guided supports, and expansion loops mitigate this.

Q5 How does it affect mixed-material systems?

A5 Different materials expand differently. In systems combining, for example, steel with PTFE liners, differential expansion must be considered to avoid compatibility stresses. It influences support design and joint selection.

Q6 What should I consider in high-temperature service?

A6 For steam lines, furnaces, or boilers, calculate expected expansion and plan fixed points, guides, and compensators. Neglecting this can lead to thermal fatigue, deformation, or weld and anchor failures.

Q7 How is expansion controlled in operation?

A7 With sliding supports, spring hangers, expansion loops, and metal or fabric expansion joints. Insulation or controlled heating can reduce steep temperature gradients.

Q8 Which standards or references are useful?

A8 ASME B31 series (process and power piping), EN 13480, API 610/617 for rotating equipment, and ASTM material datasheets. Expansion joint manufacturers also publish allowable thermal movements.