main differences between stainless steel pipe and tube

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Stocking

  • Size Range | 1/4″ – 36″ NPS (Larger sizes available upon request)
  • Schedules | 10, 10s, 40, 40s, 80, 80s, 120, 160 (Custom wall thicknesses available upon request)
  • Stainless Steel Grades | 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 316L, 317L, 321 , 347, *
  • Special Alloys | 2205, 254SMo, Monel, Inconel, *
  • Chrome Moly | P5, P9, P11, P22, P91, *
  • Standards | ASTM / ASME

The main differences between stainless steel pipe and tube lie in their applications, size specifications, manufacturing standards, and shape characteristics. Here are the specifics:

  1. Applications:
    • Pipe: Typically used for fluid transport, such as water, oil, or gas. Pipe is designed with a focus on fluid flow, making it more suitable for piping systems.
    • Tube: Commonly used in structural applications, such as in construction, machinery, and automotive industries. Tube is focused on structural strength and aesthetics and is widely used for frames, support structures, etc.
  2. Size Measurement:
    • Pipe: Generally measured by inner diameter (ID) and wall thickness (schedule), as it is essential for calculating fluid flow.
    • Tube: Usually measured by outer diameter (OD) and wall thickness, because OD is more crucial for structural applications.
  3. Manufacturing Standards:
    • Pipe: Typically follows standards like ASTM, ANSI, and ASME, with emphasis on pressure resistance and corrosion resistance.
    • Tube: May follow standards such as ASTM, AISI, or ISO, focusing on accuracy, strength, and appearance.
  4. Precision and Tolerance:
    • Pipe: Generally has less strict tolerance requirements compared to Tube, as it primarily serves for fluid transport, making high precision less critical.
    • Tube: Requires higher tolerance for dimensions and wall thickness, with stricter production control to ensure structural and aesthetic quality.
  5. Shape:
    • Pipe: Typically has a round cross-section, though square and rectangular designs are also available.
    • Tube: Can be round, square, rectangular, or even oval to suit various design and aesthetic requirements.

In summary, stainless steel pipe is mainly used in piping systems with a focus on fluid transport performance, while tube is used in structural and decorative applications where precision, strength, and appearance are prioritized.

YILE METAL CO., LTD

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