Have you ever noticed the subtle differences between pipe and tube while searching through a plumbing catalog or visiting your local hardware store? It can be confusing to figure out which one is the appropriate tool for the job, but understanding how they differ can make choosing between them much easier. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the major distinctions between pipe and tube so that you have a comprehensive guide when it comes time to make your selection. From material composition to size consistency, these are key elements in determining if pipe or tube should be used for any particular project. Read on to discover more about why there may be times when it makes sense—literally—to choose one over the other!
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What is Pipe?
A pipe is a hollow section with a round cross-section used to transport products. Products include powders, pellets, liquids, gases, and more.
The outer diameter (OD) and wall thickness are the most important dimensions for a pipe (WT). The inside diameter (ID) of a pipe is determined by OD minus 2 times WT (schedule), which determines the pipe’s liquid capacity.
What is Tube?
The term TUBE refers to hollow round, square, rectangular, and oval sections used in pressure equipment, mechanical applications, and instrumentation systems.
Tubes are labeled with their outer diameter and wall thickness, both in inches and millimeters.
Pipes vs Tubes – What’s the Difference
Diameter
While determining the actual size, tubes and pipes are measured differently.
A tube is measured using its exact outside diameter (OD) and a predetermined range of wall thickness. The wall thickness is critical because it determines the strength of the tube.
In contrast, we measure a pipe by its nominal outside diameter. The capacity or inside dimension is the most important property (ID).
Pipes are used for larger applications and come in sizes ranging from a half-inch to several feet. Tubes are commonly used in applications requiring smaller diameters. A 10-inch pipe is fairly common, but a 10-inch tube is uncommon.
Wall thickness
When distinguishing between pipes and tubes, wall thickness is an important consideration.
The thickness of the tubing is frequently specified by a gauge for thinner tubing and fractions of an inch or millimeter for thicker tubing. Tubing is typically available in gauges ranging from 20 gauges (0.035 inches) to 2-inch thickness.
A pipe schedule thickness is the thickness of a pipe’s wall. The following are the most common pipe schedules:
- SCH20,
- SCH40,
- SCH80
The most common is SCH40, and SCH80 is quite heavy.
Structure
The structure of a tube does not always have to be round. It can also be square or rectangular. Typically, they are seam welded.
In contrast, the pipe is always round and rigid. It cannot be easily shaped without the use of specialized equipment. Pipes are typically seamless and pressure rated to prevent leaks when transporting liquids or gases.
Tolerance
When the tolerances of tubes and pipes are compared, the tolerance of pipes is greater than that of tubes. Pipes are typically used for transportation or distribution, so pressure, straightness, and roundness are all strictly specified.
Manufacturing process
Both pipes and tubes use different materials and manufacturing techniques.
Tubes necessitate more complex processes, tests, and inspections. As a result, the delivery time is also extended. The yield of tubes is much lower than that of pipes.
In contrast to tubes, the manufacturing process of a pipe is simpler and more frequently undergoes mass production.
Cost
Tube production requires significantly more labor, energy, and material. As a result, when the same material is used, the production cost of tubes is typically higher than that of pipes.
Pipe manufacturing is simpler, and they are always produced in large quantities. This resulted in a reduction in the cost of pipes.
Mechanical and chemical properties
For pipes, the pressure rating, yield strength, and ductility properties are more important. Hardness, tensile strength, and high precision are the keys to high-quality in tubes.
The main chemical elements for pipes are carbon, manganese, sulfur, phosphorus, and silicon. Microelements are very important to the quality and process of tubing.
Surface coating
Pipes must be painted or coated to prevent corrosion or oxidation when transported in the field or underground.
Tubes are frequently subjected to sour cleaning or special polishing treatments for their specific field applications.
Uses
Pipes are primarily used for the transportation of fluids and gases such as water, oil, gas, propane, and so on. As a result, the outside and inside diameters are critical measurements, as is the pressure rating.
Tubes, on the other hand, are primarily used for structural purposes such as scaffolding. They are frequently used in applications that require precise outside diameters. As a result, the outside diameter is crucial because it indicates how much the tube can hold.
