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A corrugated metal pipe is a robust, durable and flexible pipe that’s usually made from corrugated steel. It can withstand extreme environmental conditions and comes with a unique design that allows it to handle large volumes of water. Corrugated steel pipes are usually used in drainage systems and stormwater management facilities and can be customised to meet diverse construction needs. Corrugated metal pipe sizes and dimensions vary, though standard diameter ranges from 6 inches to 144 inches. The price list also varies depending on the dimensions and supplier. We’ll take a closer look at corrugated steel pipes and metal pipes in detail here.
What is corrugated metal pipe?
A corrugated metal pipe (or corrugated steel pipe) is a resilient, strong and versatile metal pipe used in the construction and manufacturing of several products.
These metal pipes have a ridged, fluted or ‘corrugated’ surface that gives the pipes the ability to withstand various environmental pressures such as traffic load, soil and water movement, and similar. It can be made out of different metals, though corrugated steel pipes are the most widely used.
Corrugated steel pipes manufacturing process:
Corrugated metal pipes have a specific process of manufacturing. It begins with taking a metal coil (i.e., steel coils) and cold-forming the metal pipe into a circular shape.
The edges are then overlapped, followed by welding or riveting them together. This gives them the strength and integrity to resist environmental stress.
This process makes them different from standard steel pipes which are plain, smooth and straight. The unique designs also give corrugated metal pipes long-lasting durability and are a cost-effective solution to efficient water flow management across infrastructure development and agricultural projects.
What size is a corrugated metal pipe?
A common question is – What sizes do corrugated metal pipes come in?
Corrugated metal pipe sizes are flexible and determined by their purposes – i.e., whether for structural integrity, drainage systems and water pressure management, or any other.
They are also available in different coatings.
Standard corrugated metal pipe sizes: Usage as per dimension and sizes
Corrugated metal pipe dimensions: 6 inches to 144 inches diameter
| Dimensions (*Diameter in inches) | Application | Benefit |
| 6 inch – 24 inch | Garden drainage, residential stormwater systems and other small scale projects | Easy to handle and instal |
| 26 inch – 48 inch | Municipal drainage systems, small road culverts, etc. | Can effectively manage moderate water flow for urban infrastructure |
| 50 inch – 144 inch | Water transmission projects (commercial), large scale drainage applications, large scale agricultural and industrial settings, etc. | Efficient management of large volumes of water flow and runoff without leakage or overflow |
| 144 inch and more | Specific municipal and industrial projects | Can withstand heavy loads, high-pressure flows |
*For informational purpose. Please ask for accurate sizes and dimensions from your steel supplier.
Whether it’s for managing rainwater in urban settings or ensuring efficiency and uniform water distribution in irrigation systems, selecting the right corrugated metal pipe sizes is essential for optimal performance.
What is the thickness of corrugated pipe?
Now that we understand the sizes of corrugated metal pipes and corrugated steel pipes (CSP), let’s take a look at thickness of corrugated pipes and CSPs. This is important as it determines the how well the pipe can handle environmental stresses such as soil pressure and traffic load.
Standard overview of corrugated metal pipe thickness:
| Thickness (*in mm) | Application | Benefit |
| 1.5 mm – 2 mm | Small agricultural drains or residential landscaping (low stress environment) | Suitable for areas with minimal traffic as they come with lighter gauge |
| 2.5 mm – 3.5 mm | Municipal drainage and road culverts (most popular) | Standard thickness provides balance between cost and durability |
| 5 mm – 7 mm | For structures prone to heavy load/ traffic and high water volumes | Structural integrity, durability and longevity |
*For informational purpose. Please ask for accurate sizes and dimensions from your steel supplier.
As a business owner looking for the right corrugated metal pipe thickness, it is recommended to check with your steel supplier. The right sizes and dimensions will ensure optimal performance across lifespan.
What is corrugated metal pipe used for?
Corrugated steel pipes are commonly used in drainage systems, channelling water from one area to another and preventing erosion and flooding, especially during monsoon rains. They are also used in agricultural fields, construction sites, roadways, among others.
Some of the common usage of corrugated metal pipes based on its type are:
- Round pipe: Culverts, storm sewers, conduits, water retention systems, tunnels
- Arch pipe: Small bridges, culverts, tunnels, storm sewers
Let’s take a closer look at the industrial applications and uses of corrugated metal pipes that highlight their versatility and importance.
1. Drainage systems
We’ve already established how corrugated steel pipes are the preferred option for drainage systems across India and worldwide. The unique design, with ridges and folds, allow corrugated pipes to handle large volumes of water efficiently. It prevents spillage and flooding and facilitates the smooth flow of water across long distances. This is especially true for stormwater management during monsoon season and heavy rainfall.
Moreover, based on requirements, corrugated metal pipe size and dimensions can be adjusted. Depending on the type of steel being used, they can be corrosion and rust resistant and also be flexible to be bent as required.
Also read: Steel vs Rubber: Understanding elasticity of steel
2. Agriculture applications
When it comes to field irrigation and water management systems, corrugated steel pipes are the preferred option.
They are designed and made such that they can withstand harsh environments, chemicals and acidic reactions, and various degrees of water pressure. This makes them superior to standard metal pipes. They can easily transport water over large distances and keep water from overflowing due to pressure or leakage, maintaining crop and harvest safety.
3. Road culverts
When it comes to the construction of roadways, highways and infrastructure development, corrugated metal pipes play a pivotal part.
These pipes are often used as culverts under roadways. Steel corrugated pipes are usually resistant to steel corrosion and facilitate the cross flow of water under roadways. This ensures that vehicular traffic above is not disrupted by water accumulation below.
Moreover, due to their strength and toughness, they can withstand head load of vehicular traffic above, outperforming standard pipes, and ensuring structural integrity and longevity.
4. Construction sector
Corrugated metal pipes are also actively used in the construction sector especially in constructing building foundations.
Steel in construction has various applications, and corrugated steel pipes are used for making efficient drainage systems, relieving hydrostatic pressure and preventing water accumulation from causing structural damage or deformity.
Due to their strength and robustness, they can easily be buried deep underground and keep performing optimally.
Also read: Steel frames used in construction: Types and features
5. Mining operations
In the mining sector, corrugated metal pipes are used to facilitate ventilation and drainage.
These pipes can withstand harsh conditions and are usually resistant to corrosion, acidic reactions and oxidation. As such, they can withstand the abrasive conditions in mining operations.
Moreover, considering steel recycling, corrugated steel pipes are also a more sustainable alternative to regular pipes.
They are also easier to instal due to their unique design and can handle the environmental demands.
Corrugated metal pipe price list
The price of corrugated metal pipe is determined by numerous factors, especially the type of metal used and dimensions and market factors.
Sample price list for corrugated metal and steel pipes:
| Diameter size (in inches) | Price per kg* | Price per tonne* |
| 6 inch – 24 inch | ₹68 – ₹122 per kg | ₹68,000 – ₹122,000 per tonne |
| 26 inch – 48 inch | ₹87 – ₹140 per kg | ₹87,000 – ₹140,000 per tonne |
| 50 inch – 144 inch | ₹115 – ₹152 per kg | ₹115,000 – ₹152,000 per tonne |
| 3 inch (Round SS corrugated pipes) | ₹118 – ₹125 per kg | ₹118,000 – ₹125,000 per tonne |
| <1 inch (SS corrugated pipes, Grades 304, 316, 309) | ₹295 – ₹312 per kg | ₹295,000 – ₹312,000 per tonne |
*Prices are suggestive and subject to change. Does not include freight, tax, packaging and other parameters. Please check with your steel supplier for exact rates and latest prices.
Also read: Steel pipes vs Steel tubes – Know what is the difference between them
How to find corrugated metal pipe suppliers near me?
If you are looking for a corrugated metal pipe supplier near you, the simplest ways to do so is:
- Check online for suggestions
- Ask your business associates and colleagues for recommendations
- Visit an online steel marketplace or local mandi
- Check with steel manufacturers on details of their local steel suppliers
Sohini is a seasoned content writer with 12 years’ experience in developing marketing and business content across multiple formats. At Tata nexarc, she leverages her skills in crafting curated content on the Indian MSME sector, steel procurement, and logistics. In her personal time, she enjoys reading fiction and being up-to-date on trends in digital marketing and the Indian business ecosystem.
Excellent info on corrugated metal pipes! This clarifies all the different sizes, thicknesses, and uses. Super helpful for my business – now I can choose the best pipes for each project without going over budget. Especially valuable is the breakdown by application (drainage, agriculture, culverts) – exactly what I needed to understand which type of pipe works best for different jobs.
Informative article. Would like to know the load-bearing rating of these corrugated pipes for better understanding of their use-case.
Do you offer pipes in different thicknesses? I need something strong, but light weight if possible.
The load-bearing rating of corrugated pipes varies depending on the material, diameter, wall thickness, and installation conditions. You can find specific ratings in the manufacturer’s specifications