We often use the words tubes and pipes interchangeably in everyday language. However, when it comes to manufacturing and engineering, they represent distinct components with specific purposes and characteristics. We even use seamless tubes and pipes without knowing the differences in their build and applications. Understanding the differences between tubes and pipes is essential for selecting appropriate materials for various applications. Keep reading to know more.
Shape and structure:
The most fundamental difference between tubes and pipes is their shape and structure. You can characterize pipes typically by their round, cylindrical shape with precise outer and inner dimensions. You can use them in applications where dimensional accuracy and consistency are critical.
In contrast, you can identify tubes usually by their circular cross-section and a somewhat standardized outer diameter. You can employ them for the conveyance of fluids. Tubes may also come in various shapes, including square and rectangular, depending on the application.
Wall thickness:
According to the line pipe manufacturer, the significant difference between pipes and tubes lies in their wall thickness. Pipes have thinner walls, and manufacturers classify them by their nominal size. It is a standard that helps in designing pipelines and understanding flow rates. Depending on the pipe sizes, pipe fabricators can produce pipes with various wall thicknesses. However, their outer diameter remains the same no matter the size of the pipes.
Conversely, tubes generally have thicker walls. Manufacturers express their wall thickness as a gauge or nominal thickness. The thicker walls of tubes make them more robust and suitable for high-pressure applications. The outer and inner diameters of tubes change with their changing wall thickness.
Manufacturing process:
The seamless pipe manufacturing process differentiates tubes from pipes. Manufacturers choose solid metal billets to produce pipes and tubes. They heat the metal billet and pierce it using a mandrel. While the tubular hollow metal is still hot, they pass it through rolling dies to eradicate any impurities in the shape. It is the basic structure of a pipe. Manufacturers modify the pipe’s outer and inner diameters and wall thickness using the hot-rolling method.
When it comes to producing seamless tubes, the process remains the same till the hot-rolling process. However, to modify the pipes further and shape them as tubes, manufacturers use cold-rolling and cold-drawing processes.
Precision and tolerances:
There is no doubt that seamless pipe suppliers create seamless tubes, keeping precision in mind. Their inner and outer diameters have tighter tolerances than seamless pipes. It makes them appropriate for uses that require accuracy. Hence, suppliers recommend using tubes instead of pipes in automotive parts, hydraulic systems, etc.
On the contrary, pipes do not have such tight tolerances. Hence, pipes are not suitable for precision applications. Instead, manufacturers recommend using them in less critical applications.
Applications:
The choice between tubes and pipes largely depends on the application. Tubes offer better accuracy, surface finish, and resistance to deformation. Hence, they are ideal for pressure vessels, structural components, and heat exchangers.
Even though pipes are not as versatile as tubes, they also have critical uses. Both seamless tubes and pipes are ideal for oil, gas, water, and steam transportation. Industries like HVAC, petroleum, plumbing, etc., use both pipes and tubes for their robust construction, thicker walls, and reliability.
Price:
Lastly, price is also one of the major factors to consider when purchasing pipes and tubes. Tubes, due to their precision and thicker walls, are often more expensive to manufacture and purchase. Pipes, on the other hand, with their thinner walls and standardized manufacturing processes, tend to be more cost-effective. It depends on the industry’s requirements and budget considerations whether it should invest in seamless pipes or tubes.
Final words:
Pipes and tubes have distinct characteristics, even though they may seem similar. Seamless tubes and pipes have specific uses based on the industry’s needs. Tubes offer precision, thicker walls, thicker outer diameters, and accurate build.
Pipes have thinner walls, consistent outer diameter, and high-pressure suitability. Specific needs of an application help in selecting the appropriate one. Whether it is about transporting fluids or constructing precision instruments, choosing between pipes and tubes is important.