Steel pipes and tubes look similar and the terms are sometimes used interchangeably. But, did you know there are some key differences between pipe and tube? Below we discuss the key characteristics which make each of them unique.
Dimension
Steel tube is mostly used in structural applications such as scaffolding and therefore, the outside diameter is the important dimension to look for. The outside diameter tells how much it can hold. In other words, it indicates how stable it is.
Pipes are typically used to transport fluids such as water, oil, gas etc. and therefore, the capacity of the pipe becomes the important. This means the inside and outside diameter along with the pressure rating are important as they indicate how much can flow through the pipe.
Tolerance
The tolerance of pipes is usually lower than tubes whereas tubes are produced to higher tolerances. This is because mechanical tolerance is a major concern for tubes as they are used in structural building applications.
Connection
Pipes are usually connected using threaded pipe connectors or screwing them together with couplings, T’s or elbows or welding together to other components such as flanges. Tubes can be connected by flaring, brazing, tube couplings, or welding.
Shape
A tube can have round, rectangular or square structure. But a pipe is always round or cylindrical. This circular shape of the pipe makes the inside pressure evenly distributed and makes it ideal for applications with sizes that range from a ½ inch to several feet.
Manufacturing
The manufacturing process of tubes is often longer as it involves a lot of processes, tests and inspections. The manufacturing process of pipes is easier compared to tubes and mass volume can be produced in a shorter time.
Cost
The production cost of tubes is usually high as it utilizes more labor, time and energy.This is low in the case of pipes as the production process is much easier compared to tubes.
Melsteel has been providing high quality steel and steel fabrication services for more than 30 years and is a leader in the Melbourne steel industry. Now that you understand the differences between pipe and tube, you may have an idea on which one is suitable for your next steel project. Buy high quality Steel pipes and steel tubes from Melsteel today. Contact us here and our friendly customer service team will assist you!