The term pipe or a tube may be used interchangeably and, according to most people, is nothing other than a hollow material. Besides sharing some standard features, stainless steel tubing functionality, structure are few examples that differentiate them from pipes. Let’s breakdown some of the critical differences between tubes and pipes;
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Structure
Pipes are made in a cylinder-shaped manner that enables them to transport fluids from one place to another. Its cylindrical nature allows pressure to be equally distributed around its wall, an ideal function in the transporting of liquids.
Stainless steel tubing may take any shape from cylindrical to cuboids and cubes or any other desired shape depending on the purpose.
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Diameter
Diameter is the distance of a chord from one end to another through the center of a circle; in other words, the longest possible distance across a circle. The diameter of a pipe does not include the wall; we are only interested in the interior span.
Both the thickness of the wall and the inner diameter are used. Tubes can be precisely measured using Vanier calipers or screw gauge.
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The thickness of the walls
One of the notable differences between a tube and a pipe is the thickness of the wall. The most common way of determining a tube’s thickness is by referring to its standard unit known as a gauge. A gauge is a fraction of an inch in size, but it is the fundamental way to achieve regular thickness; the higher the gauge, the thicker the tube.
The thickness of the material used in manufacturing pipes is not that important but carries useful information on pressure resistance. Pipes may take on thinner materials as long as they can transport pressurized fluids.
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Uses
It’s now clear that pipes’ primary function is transporting fluids from one point to another. Other than logistical commitments, pipes may be used in protecting electrical lines around your home.
Tubes are mainly used in building and construction; automotive also appreciate their services. Engineers have adopted an efficient way of incorporating stainless steel tubing in various construction projects like scaffolding.
The series of tubing used in gearboxes allows it to unleash the raw power it possesses.
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Manufacturing process
The amount of time invested in the tubing industry leads to high-quality tubes used in sky conquest programs like in skyscrapers. Tubing accessories undergo a rigorous testing process under the watchful eye of an expert. The end product will be an incomparable healthy stainless steel tubing products.
Pipes production follows an official channel where a special consideration applies to the interior circumference. The decisive element in this procedure is the amount of fluid the pipe will carry. Nevertheless, piping material must be able to resist high pressure and stress. It should not contaminate the fluid that is passing through.
Perhaps you unknowingly confused these terms under similarity- stainless steel tubing and pipes are two different components that no one should confuse after the above-detailed differentiation.
