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[srinivas_somalanka]

Is there any guidelines for heating and cooling for different metals like reformer tubes or any alloy steels (Cr Moly) .. is there any standard covering this subject? Anywhere in API or ASTM covered?

[Art Montemayor]

Of course there are guidelines for heating and cooling Steam Reformer tubes.  In fact, there are specific and detailed instructions in carrying these important procedures out.  They are all found in the designer/fabricator Operating Manual of the Steam Reformer Furnace or, better yet, they are issued in a special operations manual of specific instructions regarding the specific furnace in question.

 

There is no general answer to your general query.  Steam Reformer furnaces come from different fabricators using different type and styles of tube orientation and installation within the furnace - as well as outside the furnace.  It is important to know that each furnace carries its own specific startup and shut down procedure instructions in accordance to its specific design and fabrication.  You should follow those instructions and guidelines issued by the fabricator of your specific furnace.

 

Neither the API or the ASTM have any business writing or issuing any instructions regarding these procedures since they are ignorant of which furnace and tube design you have.  And more importantly, neither agency will take the responsibility of warrantying the accuracy and applicability of their recommendations to your specific furnace.  How, in heaven's name could they possibly know anything about your specific furnace?  The answer to your query lies in successfully communicating your need or ignorance regarding your furnace with the designer/fabricator of the same.