What Is Steel Pipe?
A steel pipe is a tubular object made of steel. Steel is classified into the following two types according to the manufacturing method:
1. Seamless Steel Pipe
Seamless steel pipe refers to steel pipe that has no seams in the tube. To manufacture a seamless steel pipe, a cylinder made of steel, called a billet, is first heated to about 1200°C. Then, using a special tool, the center of the heated cylinder is pushed open and a hole is drilled through it. This process (Mannesmann method) is used to produce seamless steel pipe.
2. Welded Steel Pipe
Welded steel pipes are manufactured using steel strip, which is a rolled steel sheet. This steel strip is heated, oxidized, and bent into a cylindrical shape.
Uses for Steel Pipes
Steel pipe is versatile and used in a wide range of areas.
One of the most common uses for steel pipe is piping. Pipes are used to transport liquids and gases.
Other uses for steel pipe include stair railings, gardening materials, and fences.
Features of Steel Pipes
In addition to the classification by manufacturing method described above, steel pipes can be divided into the following three types according to material:
1. Stainless Steel Pipe
Stainless steel pipes are manufactured using alloy steel containing 10.5% or more chromium. Among steel pipes, stainless steel pipes are the most frequently used. The reason for this is that stainless steel pipes have high pressure resistance and can be made lighter. Stainless steel pipes are also superior in that they are rust-resistant and can be used for a long period of time.
2. Carbon Steel Pipes
Carbon steel pipes are made from carbon steel, an alloy of iron and carbon. The advantage of using carbon steel pipe is its relatively low price. Therefore, it is widely used as piping for transporting oil, gas, water, etc.
3. Alloy Steel Pipes
Alloy steel pipes are manufactured from alloys such as nickel, molybdenum, and chromium added to the carbon steel mentioned above.