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Often, people get confused between steel pipes and steel tubes. However, there are a few differences between them. Before understanding the difference, one has to know the definition of pipes and tubes. This article elaborates on the meaning of steel pipes and steel tubes and also the differences between the two products.
Steel pipes: Meaning
Pipes are round hollow sections that are used mainly in the transportation of fluids, gas, powders, etc. Steel pipes are used in various ways. Water supply in cities is generally done through steel pipes.
Also read: Sq pipe weight chart – Learn to calculate weight in kg
Steel tubes: Meaning
Steel tubes come in various shapes such as round, square, rectangular, oval, and so on. Tubing is commonly specified by its outer diameter and wall thickness, and it is typically subject to stricter and more precise tolerances and specifications compared to pipes.
Also read: What is steel tubing?
Difference between pipe and tube
Here are some key differences between steel pipes and steel tubes on various parameters. The key difference between steel pipes are tubes is pipes are made to convey or transport various materials such as gas, water, liquids, powder and so on. On the other hand, steel tubes may or may not be made for carrying or transporting materials. For example, steel tubes are commonly used in steel railings.
Steel pipes vs. steel tubes: Shape
Steel pipes | Steel tubes | |
Shape | Steel pipe is always round in shape. | Steel tubes can be round, square, rectangular or oval. |
Steel pipes vs steel tubes: Measurement criteria
Measurement criteria for steel pipes and steel tubes are very different. Here is what the difference is.
Steel pipe | Steel tube | |
Measurement criteria | Pipes are typically ordered using the nominal pipe size (NPS) standard. | Steel tubes are typically measured inches and millimetres. |
Capacity | NPS denotes the approximate conveyance capacity of the steel pipe. | Inches and millimetres denote the outside diameter of the tube. |
Steel pipes vs steel tubes: Rigidity and durability
Steel pipes are invariably rigid but are the tubes rigid? Here is more:
Characteristics | Steel pipe | Steel tube |
Rigidity | Steel pipes are typically rigid | Steel tubes may or may not require special equipment for shaping. |
Need of special equipment | Steel pipes can not be shaped without special equipment. | Steel tubes may or may not require special equipment to shape. |
Durability | Steel pipes are lesser durable than tubes. | Steel tubes feature better durability and strength than steel pipes. |
Types of steel pipes and steel tubes
Steel pipes as well as tubes can be manufactured with different kinds of steel. Here is a list.
Types of steel pipes | Types of steel tube |
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Applications of steel pipes and tubing
Steel pipes and tubes are used in various applications. Here are some of the common uses of steel pipes and tubes.
Steel pipes applications | Steel tubes applications |
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Manufacturing steel pipes and steel tubes
Pipes: Steel pipes are manufactured with hot rolled steel.
Tubes: Steel tubes can be hot rolled or cold rolled.
Steel pipes and tubes, both can be galvanised as per the need. Additionally, both can be either seamless or welded.
Sizes (length)
Steel pipes are available in variety of sizes in terms of NPS. However, pipes come in standard sizes. Most pipes come in 21 or 42 feet.
Similar is the case with steel tubes. Although tubes are available in various diameters, however, most tubes are sold in 20, 24, 40 and 48 foot lengths.
Having said this, steel pipes and tube sizes are customisable.
Prices
Steel pipes are available in a wide range of prices depending on the size, type and steel grades used. For example, the range of steel pipe prices is ₹80 to ₹250 kg.
Steel tubes are also available at a wide range of prices. Steel tubes’ price range is ₹60 to ₹250 kg.
List of steel pipes and tube manufacturers
Here is a list of some steel pipes and tube manufacturers
- APL Apollo Tubes
- Group Nirmal
- JSW Steel Ltd.
- Kalyani Steels Ltd.
- Aditya Stainless
- Bhuwalka Pipes (P) Ltd.
- Reliant Pipe & Tubes
- ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India
Also read: ERW pipe: Meaning, full form, manufacturing process, sizes, specifications
Frequently asked questions
Are steel pipes and steel tubes the same?
Are steel pipes stronger than steel tubes?
What is more corrosion resistance steel pipes or steel tubes?
What should you choose – steel pipes and steel tubes?
Swati is a passionate content writer with more than 10 years of experience crafting content for the business and manufacturing sectors, and helping MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) navigate complexities in steel procurement, and business services. Her clear and informative writing empowers MSMEs to make informed decisions and thrive in the competitive landscape.