Steel pipes are strong, tough, and durable. They can be round, square, rectangular, oval, D-shaped, and other special-shaped tubes that often incorporate different alloys such as iron, brass, copper, aluminum, manganese, titanium, and tungsten. The versatility of steel pipes lends them to a range of applications in different industries. However, advances in technology have allowed welded tubes to have sufficient strength to replace seamless pipes for many applications.
Round Steel Pipes
Most of the steel pipes are round in shape. Round pipes are stronger, more efficient, safer, and cheaper. Pipes with a circular cross-section can withstand high pressure, far higher than a rectangular or square pipe. The force of the water is distributed evenly along the whole pipe, meaning there are no weak spots. Liquid flows faster through round pipes compared to square or rectangular pipes. A pipe with angles requires more frictional resistance than a round pipe, and frictional resistance slows down flow and puts more stress on the pipe. Round pipes are the best for volume to surface area ratio, meaning the internal area of the pipe that is in contact with the liquid is less for round pipes than for other pipes. Slower-moving water in angled pipes can cause rusting of the section, which damages the pipe and can contaminate water. Less material is required to produce round pipes compared to square or rectangular pipes. Round pipes have the largest inside area to perimeter ratio of any other types of pipe; a round pipe requires less material compared to square or other pipes.
Uses of Round Pipes
Pipe Casing
In general, steel pipe casings are highly versatile. From protecting water lines, electrical power cables, natural gas lines, gas wells, sewer pipes, to even optical fiber lines – pipe casings are used widely. They are welded, threaded, and installed together to protect utility lines from getting damaged. Again, the durability of pipes shines once again in this structural application. In case of damage that can occur due to the elements of nature such as earthquakes or fires and other human activities, pipe casing will not succumb easily.
Scaffolding
Scaffolding refers to a platform that elevates and supports workers during construction, repair, or cleaning. In other instances, workers also use it to transport heavy equipment and supplies. As a key provisional structure, scaffolding should offer safety and access suitable for workers to carry out their tasks. These structures are simple to erect and dismantle. The pipes are simply joined by steel fittings to create scaffolding. For most structures, steel pipes are considered a necessity because the weight of the scaffolding itself requires immense strength. It is common knowledge that steel pipes are immensely durable and fire-resistant.
Steel Pole and Pole Signage
Steel pipes are also commonly used as poles and signage. In major highways and roads, steel pipe poles carry electric power lines that distribute electricity from local substations to the homes of customers. On the other hand, steel pole signage is put in place to relay significant information that may include directions, highway limits, and driving rules. Often, these pipe signage support traffic lights around cities as well.
Fencing
Another great example of steel pipes being used as a structural material is fencing. For one, these fences protect pedestrians on sidewalks by separating indicating how close the vehicles can be. They can also be used for working cattle pens and even entryways at homes and ranches. Pipe fences are created to be durable and impact-resistant. If a vehicle or an animal crashes into them, the pipes would absorb the shock. The fences add a layer of security.
Handrails
Upon entering retail malls and other commercial establishments, pipe handrails can be seen almost immediately. These can be used on staircases, ramps, bathroom handrails, and even PWD handrails. In an industrial setting, the most common kind of pipe handrails is the two-rail pipe railing. It has a top and mid railing that serve as fall protection.
Square and Rectangular Tubes
Square and rectangular tubing are also known as HSS (hollow structural steel). Rectangle steel tube and steel square tubing products are also low in cost and offer a greater strength-to-weight ratio than other types of shaped metal products. In addition, rectangle steel tube and steel square tubing are regularly utilized throughout the world for their outstanding strength and rigidity.
Uses of Square & Rectangular Tubes
Many industries value the advantages of square tubing due to its versatility. Like many metal products, square tubes have proven valuable, largely attributed to their performance, durability, and long-lastingness. It’s no surprise that the uses of square tubes are incredibly wide in scope — from the simple architectural column to more intricate designs, such as decorative dividers or modern metal gates/entryways.
Columns
Square tubes are structural steel or metal products that can be used to form a network of building columns. This is one of its most suitable uses because square tubes have the necessary strength and rigidity needed to support structures. They are also cost-effective compared to other materials such as concrete.
Frames
Square tubing is often used to create frames for a wide range of equipment, including machinery and vehicles. The strong, sturdy nature of steel square tubing makes it ideal for creating strong, durable frames that can withstand heavy loads and resist deformation over time.
Furniture
The versatility of square tubing lends itself well to creating furniture, especially outdoor furniture. Square tubing can be easily welded, shaped, and finished to create modern, sleek designs. It is a popular choice for patio furniture, tables, and chairs.
Structural Support
Square tubing can be used as structural supports in buildings, bridges, and other applications where high strength-to-weight ratios are critical. Its ability to resist bending and deflection under load makes it an ideal candidate for these types of projects.
Oval Steel Pipes
Oval steel pipes are a unique type of steel pipe that has an oval-shaped cross-section. They are used primarily in automotive, marine, and aerospace industries. The elliptical shape of oval pipes facilitates better airflow and fluid flow, making them ideal for use in exhaust systems, oil coolers, and piping systems. Oval pipes are also aesthetically pleasing, making them a popular choice for architectural applications.
D-Shaped Steel Pipes
D-shaped steel pipes are another specialized type of steel pipe that has a D-shaped cross-section. They are commonly used in construction, where they are used to create curved walls or other unique architectural features. D-shaped pipes can also be used in HVAC systems, where their shape allows for better airflow than traditional rectangular ducts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, steel pipes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each with its unique advantages and applications. From round pipes to square and rectangular tubing, oval and D-shaped pipes, each type of steel pipe serves a specific purpose. They are versatile, durable, and cost-effective, making them an essential component in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, transportation, and more. If you are in need of different shapes of steel pipes, we will absolutely be your best choice.
