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What is the Difference Between Pipe and Tube?


One of the most frequent questions we get from customers is “What’s the difference between pipe and tube”? Although pipes and tubes may look similar, they are, in fact, quite different in nomenclature and sizing. Remember that pipes and tubes are rarely interchangeable.

The differences between pipe and tube include:

  • Shape
  • Measurement
  • Telescoping Abilities
  • Rigidity
  • Applications
  • Metal Types
  • Size
  • Strength

By understanding the difference between pipe and tube, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right material for your specific needs in construction, manufacturing, or any other industry that utilizes them.

Shape

Pipes are always round, but tubes can be square, rectangular, or round.

The round shape of pipes is specifically designed to facilitate the efficient transportation of fluids or gases. The circular cross-section allows for even pressure distribution and minimizes the risk of weak points that could lead to leaks or bursts.

Tubes are more versatile in their shapes, offering square and rectangular options in addition to the round configuration. This variety makes tubes suitable for structural applications where the shape contributes to the overall strength and stability of the framework.

Measurement

A pipe has an Outside Diameter and always stays the same. The Inside Diameter changes as the schedule increases in thickness. There’s an easy way to remember this: since pipe is used to transfer fluids or gas, the size of the opening through which the fluids or gas can pass through is probably more important to you than the outer dimensions of the pipe. Tube measurements, on the other hand, are provided as an outside diameter and set ranges of wall thickness.

Telescoping Abilities

Tube can be telescoped. Remember to account for the flash weld inside the tube. Pipe, on the other hand, does not have a flash weld. DOM (Drawn over Mandrel) Tube is the best material for telescoping because the inside flash weld has been removed.

Rigidity

Although copper and brass tubes can be shaped relatively easily, tubes are typically rigid. This characteristic makes tubes ideal for structural and architectural applications where maintaining a specific shape is crucial for stability and strength.

Pipes are invariably rigid and cannot be shaped without special equipment. This inherent rigidity is necessary for their primary function, which often involves the transportation of fluids or gases under pressure. The unyielding nature of pipes ensures they can withstand high pressures and resist deformation, maintaining a reliable and consistent flow.

Applications

When it comes to applications, the fundamental differences between pipes and tubes become more apparent. Only pipes are pressure-rated and intended for the transference of fluids or gas. This specific design and rating ensure that pipes can withstand the pressures and stresses associated with the movement of liquids and gases through them. Common applications of pipes include plumbing, gas lines, and any system requiring the safe transportation of fluids or gases from one point to another.

Tubes, on the other hand, are used in structural applications. They can support loads, reinforce structures, and serve as key components in frameworks for buildings, machinery, and vehicles. Their varying shapes—round, square, or rectangular—make them adaptable for a wide range of structural uses. In addition to traditional construction, tubes find applications in furniture, automotive roll cages, HVAC systems, and even the aerospace industry.

Metal Types

Tube is available in hot rolled steel and cold rolled steel. Pipe is typically black steel (hot rolled). Both can be galvanized.

Size

Pipe is typically available in larger sizes than tube. The larger diameter of pipes allows for greater flow capacity, which is essential in plumbing, industrial, and municipal infrastructure projects where high throughput is required. The smaller diameter of tubes allows for high precision and consistency in their measurements, which is advantageous in applications where tight tolerances and exact dimensions are critical, such as in mechanical components, medical devices, and structural frameworks.

Strength

Tubes are stronger than pipes, making them the preferred choice for applications that demand structural integrity and load-bearing capacity. If your focus is on creating a reliable and durable structure, tubes will likely be your go-to material.

Don’t have time to read the blog?

You can check out our video below to find out the difference between a pipe and tube:


Metal Supermarkets

Metal Supermarkets is the world’s largest small-quantity metal supplier with over 130 brick-and-mortar stores across the US, Canada, and United Kingdom. We are metal experts and have been providing quality customer service and products since 1985.

At Metal Supermarkets, we supply a wide range of metals for a variety of applications. Our stock includes: mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, tool steel, alloy steel, brass, bronze and copper.

We stock a wide range of shapes including: bars, tubes, sheets, plates and more. And we can cut metal to your exact specifications.

Visit one of our locations today.

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