Stainless steel tubing is an essential component used in a variety of industries and applications due to its superior strength, durability, and corrosion resistance.
Manufactured from austenitic steel alloys, stainless steel tubing is available in a wide range of sizes and alloys to meet exact project specifications.
It is also highly resistant to heat, high pressures, and environmental conditions.
For these reasons, stainless steel tubing is a reliable and cost-effective choice.
Key Takeaways
- Stainless steel tubing is manufactured from austenitic steel alloys, such as 304 and 316, which provide excellent strength and advanced corrosion resistance.
- Stainless steel tubing is available in various sizes and shapes, including round, square, and rectangular, making it versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications.
- Stainless steel tubing is used in industries such as construction, plumbing, marine equipment, medical equipment, and the food and pharmacy industry.
- Stainless steel tubing can be custom cut to size, polished, and shipped, and is available in both welded and seamless options.
What’s Stainless Steel Tubing?
Stainless steel tubing is a type of metal product manufactured from austenitic steel alloys, providing strength and corrosion resistance for various applications. The manufacturing process involves shaping the metal into the desired shape, such as round, square, or rectangular, before it is cut, welded, and polished.
Stainless steel tubing offers many advantages, including its corrosion resistance, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Its ability to stand up to harsh environments, such as acidic and saline environments, makes it especially helpful for applications in the medical, food, and pharmacy industries. The corrosion resistance of stainless steel tubing allows it to be used in outdoor framework, transportation holds, and lightweight structural applications.
Its versatility and affordability make it the ideal choice for a variety of projects, ranging from plumbing to motorsport vehicles.
Tubing Materials
Various materials, such as austenitic stainless steel, duplex stainless steel, and non-ferrous metals, are used in the manufacturing of stainless steel tubing. The tubing materials must have corrosion resistance properties and meet the required standard specifications. Stainless steel grades, such as 304/304L, 316/316L, 317/317L, 321, 347, 348, 309S, 310S, 254SMO, AL6XN, Incoloy 915, 904L, and UNS N08926, are commonly used. Duplex stainless steel grades, such as UNS S31803, UNS S32750, and UNS S32205, are also used. Non-ferrous metals, such as nickel 200/201, Monel alloy 400, Inconel alloy 600, Incoloy 800/800H/800HT, Incoloy 825, Hastelloy C-276, Hastelloy C-22, Alloy 20, and titanium Gr. 1, Gr. 2, Gr. 7, Gr. 12 are also used.
| Material | Grade |
|---|---|
| SS | 304/304L, 316/316L, 317/317L, 321, 347, 348, 309S, 310S, 254SMO, AL6XN, Incoloy 915, 904L, UNS N08926 |
| Duplex SS | UNS S31803, UNS S32750, UNS S32205 |
| Non-ferrous Metals | Nickel 200/201, Monel alloy 400, Inconel alloy 600, Incoloy 800/800H/800HT, Incoloy 825, Hastelloy C-276, Hastelloy C-22, Alloy 20, and titanium Gr. 1, Gr. 2, Gr. 7, Gr. 12 |
Standard Specifications for Tubing
Building on the discussion of the different materials used in the manufacturing of stainless steel tubing, various standard specifications are also applied to ensure quality and integrity of the product. These specifications are based on the ASTM standards for stainless steel tubing, and include the size, wall thickness, and alloy type of the tubing. In addition, stainless tubing manufacturers must adhere to the required pressure ratings, corrosion resistance, and cleanliness of the products.
The stainless tubing manufacturing process is highly regulated, and must meet the strict requirements of ASTM standards. These include the actual outside diameter and minimum or average wall thickness specified by the purchaser. The wall thickness is given in gauge number, usually using the Birmingham wire gauge (BWG) system. Moreover, the tubing must adhere to the required pressure ratings, corrosion resistance, and cleanliness.
In addition, the stainless steel tubing must be produced in a manner that ensures the highest quality and craftsmanship. This includes the use of annealing, pickling, and bright annealing processes, as well as electro-polishing or mechanical polishing. These processes help to remove any burrs or imperfections on the tubing surface, and ensure the product meets ASTM standards for cleanliness.
STAINLESS TUBING VS STAINLESS PIPE DIFFERENCE
Comparing stainless tubing and stainless pipe, there are several key differences to consider. Stainless tubing is typically manufactured with a more precise diameter, wall thickness, and outer diameter compared to stainless pipe. Manufactured using an extrusion process, stainless tubing is often more cost-efficient for smaller diameters. Stainless pipe, on the other hand, is usually made through a welded process, making it the preferred choice for larger diameters.
| Stainless Tubing | Stainless Pipe |
|---|---|
| Extrusion Process | Welded Process |
| Smaller Diameters | Larger Diameters |
| More Cost-Efficient | More Expensive |
Advantages of stainless tubing over stainless pipe include better strength and corrosion resistance, improved weldability, and increased flexibility. While the weldability of stainless tubing is improved over pipe, it still requires special welding techniques for optimal results. Additionally, stainless tubing offers higher precision and more control over the finished product compared to stainless pipe.
MEASUREMENT AND ORDERING
When ordering stainless steel tubing, it is important to consider the size, wall thickness, and length of the tubing, in addition to the material and grades specified. Measurements can be specified in either metric or imperial units and the surface finish may also be specified. The manufacturing process can vary depending on the grade and size of the tubing.
Measurements and Specifications:
- Metric or imperial units for size and wall thickness.
- Surface finish.
Manufacturing Process:
- Seamless or welded.
- Hot- or cold-finished.
- Annealing, pickling, and bright annealing.
- Wall thickness specified in gauge number using the Birmingham wire gauge (BWG) system.
Stainless steel tubing is produced to the actual outside diameter and minimum or average wall thickness specified by the purchaser. Finishes may include annealed, pickled, or bright annealed, and electro-polishing and mechanical polishing may be required to remove burrs and imperfections. With the right measurements and specifications, the stainless steel tubing can be custom cut, polished, and shipped.
These are the basics of stainless steel tubing measurement and ordering. It is important to understand these concepts in order to get the desired results. With a better understanding of shapes and sizes, the process of ordering stainless steel tubing can be simpler.
SHAPES AND SIZE
Continuing on from the previous subtopic of measurement and ordering, this article will discuss the shapes and size of stainless steel tubing.
Stainless steel tubings come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Depending upon the application, there are many options to choose from. Round, square, and rectangular tubing are all common choices. Additionally, custom cut to size services are available to meet the exact specifications of the project.
The benefits of stainless steel tubing include excellent strength and corrosion resistance. It is lightweight and versatile, making it ideal for a range of applications including construction, plumbing, and transportation holds. The customization options available for stainless steel tubing make it a desirable choice for many projects.
The size and shape of stainless steel tubing is determined by the outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness. The wall thickness is typically given in gauges, with the most common being the Birmingham wire gauge (BWG). The OD is generally measured in inches or millimeters.
In order to ensure the best performance, it is important to select the right size and shape of stainless steel tubing. Careful consideration should be given to the application, as the wrong size or shape can lead to poor performance.
316 Round Stainless Tubing
Switching focus, round stainless tubing is available in a variety of sizes and grades. Manufactured from austenitic steel alloys, it provides excellent strength and advanced corrosion resistance. The stainless tubing manufacturing process is custom cut to size services and can be used in a variety of applications such as construction, plumbing, and lightweight structural applications.
Benefits of stainless steel tubing include its ability to withstand pressure, minimize metallic contamination, and provide seamless structure. Stainless steel tubing also offers numerous size and shape options, and is versatile and affordable. Finishes available for stainless steel tubing include annealed, pickled, bright annealed, and can be custom cut, polished, and shipped.
Inventory and manufacturing options for stainless steel tubing includes extensive inventory of seamless and welded tubing, stock of high-quality standard and special grades, and varied thicknesses and grades. Additionally, stainless steel tubing meets ASTM standard specifications (A213, A269, A511, A554), and is measured by its actual outside diameter (OD).
Product information for stainless steel tubing includes pipe sizes and weights, standard specifications, stainless steel grades, reference catalog, theoretical bursting pressures, and more. Technical information for support personnel is also available for resolving HTTP Error 404 issues.
Ultimately, stainless steel tubing offers a range of benefits that make it an ideal solution for various applications.
Stainless Steel 316 Round Tube Applications
Stainless steel 316 round tubing is commonly used in a variety of applications due to its advantageous properties. It is manufactured from austenitic steel alloys, providing superior corrosion resistance and excellent strength. This type of tubing is often used in marine equipment, medical equipment, food and pharmacy industry, and other areas where enhanced durability under pressure is needed. It is also seamless in structure, which minimizes metallic contamination.
In addition to its corrosion resistance, stainless steel 316 round tube also offers a number of other advantages. Its high chromium and nickel content provide superior resistance to oxidation and heat, while its low carbon content helps to reduce the risk of intergranular corrosion. Due to its unique properties, stainless steel 316 round tube is also extremely versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, such as construction, plumbing, outdoor framework, braces, supports, and transportation holds.
304 Stainless Round Tube
Stainless Round Tube is a type of stainless steel tubing that is manufactured from austenitic steel alloys for durability in various applications. It is cut to size and custom manufactured to meet project specifications. It is ideal for applications such as architecture, motorsport vehicles, plumbing, outdoor framework, braces, supports, and transportation holds.
The stainless steel tubing manufacturing process is carried out with precision and attention to detail, ensuring that the highest standards are met. It offers several benefits such as high strength, advanced corrosion resistance, and easy fabrication. It is also available in various sizes and shapes such as round, square, and rectangular tubing.
The stainless round tubing is used in several applications, including:
- Marine equipment
- Food and pharmacy industry
- Medical equipment
The benefits of stainless steel tubing include:
- Durability under pressure
- Seamless structure
- Reduced metallic contamination
- Versatility and affordability
- Excellent strength and corrosion resistance
Stainless round tubing is produced with ASTM standard specifications, such as A213, A269, A511, and A554. It is measured by its actual outside diameter and wall thickness and is available in various thicknesses and grades. It is an ideal choice for those who require a dependable and long-lasting solution.
Round 304 Stainless Steel Tubing Applications
Building upon the benefits of stainless steel tubing, round 304 stainless steel tubing is used in a variety of applications. Its superior strength and corrosion resistance makes it a popular choice for many projects. From medical equipment to construction, round 304 stainless steel tubing offers many advantages in terms of longevity and durability.
The stainless steel tubing manufacturing process begins with the selection of high-quality steel alloys and is then shaped and cut to size. This ensures that the tubing meets the project’s exact specifications. Maintenance of stainless steel tubing is simple and requires minimal upkeep. With proper care, its strength and corrosion resistance make it a long-lasting choice for many applications.
The advantages of stainless steel tubing are numerous and include its low cost, high strength, and corrosion resistance. Its versatility makes it ideal for a wide range of projects. Round 304 stainless steel tubing is a dependable option for many applications thanks to its superior strength and corrosion resistance.
304 Stainless Steel Square Tube
Offering superior strength and corrosion resistance, stainless steel square tube is an ideal choice for a variety of applications. It is manufactured from austenitic steel alloys and offers great durability under pressure. It is available in a seamless or welded type, and is available in various sizes and grades. Welding techniques can be used to customize the tube to specific requirements.
The corrosion resistance of stainless steel square tube makes it an ideal choice for applications such as marine equipment, medical equipment, food, and pharmacy industry. Its structural applications include transportation holds, indoor and outdoor framework, braces, supports, and lightweight structural applications.
Inventory and manufacturing options are available for stainless steel square tube, with an extensive range of seamless and welded tubes. It meets ASTM standard specifications, and can be hot- or cold-finished in seamless or welded type. It is also available in various wall thicknesses and grades, and can be custom cut and polished for specific requirements.
Stainless 304 Square Tube Applications
The applications of stainless 304 square tube include construction, plumbing, outdoor framework, braces, supports, transportation holds, and lightweight structural applications. Its superior corrosion resistance and strength make it an ideal choice for a variety of projects.
It is available in a range of sizes and stainless square tubing sizes can be custom cut to meet exact requirements. The manufacturing process of stainless tubing involves hot or cold finishing to achieve the desired shape, length, and wall thickness. The stainless tubing corrosion resistance is further enhanced by the addition of elements such as chromium and nickel.
The combination of durability, strength, and corrosion resistance makes stainless 304 square tube a reliable and cost-effective choice for many applications. For projects that require more precise dimensions and shapes, stainless steel rectangular tube can be an appropriate alternative.
304 Stainless Steel Rectangular Tube
Similar to stainless 304 square tube, stainless steel rectangular tube is also used in construction, plumbing, outdoor framework, braces, supports, and transportation holds. It is manufactured from austenitic steel alloys and provides excellent corrosion resistance and advanced strength. It is an ideal choice for various structural applications and is available in custom cut sizes.
The manufacturing process of stainless steel rectangular tube involves heating the metal to a certain temperature and then cooling it rapidly. This helps give the metal its unique properties, such as superior corrosion resistance and strength. It also has the ability to withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for use in many applications.
The corrosion resistance of stainless steel rectangular tube makes it an ideal choice for applications that require long-term durability. It is resistant to rusting and tarnishing, and is able to withstand extreme weather conditions. Additionally, its strength makes it an ideal choice for structural applications such as supports, braces, and transportation holds.
Stainless 304 Rectangular Tubing Applications
Though it is commonly used in construction, plumbing, and for transportation holds, stainless steel 304 rectangular tubing is also an excellent choice for other applications. It offers superior strength and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for a wide variety of applications.
The manufacturing processes used for stainless steel 304 tubing ensure that it meets the necessary specifications for a variety of industries. Its corrosion resistance makes it an ideal choice for applications where the tubing will be exposed to corrosive elements, such as in medical equipment and food production. Additionally, its strength makes it a top choice for applications that require lightweight yet durable materials, such as architecture and motorsport vehicles.
The advantages of stainless steel tubing include its superior strength, corrosion resistance, and overall cost-effectiveness.
Overall, stainless steel 304 rectangular tubing is an excellent choice for applications in various industries. Its manufacturing processes provide superior strength and corrosion resistance, while its cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive option for many consumers.
The transition to the next section about applications for stainless steel tubing is now complete.
Applications for stainless steel tubing
Stainless steel tubing has many versatile uses, due to its strength, corrosion resistance, and customizability. From the medical industry to construction, stainless steel tubing can be used to create products for a variety of applications.
Manufacturing Process:
- Can be custom cut to size
- Annealed, pickled, and bright annealed manufacturing options
- Versatile and affordable
Advantages:
- Superior strength and advanced corrosion resistance
- Seamless in structure
- Minimizes metallic contamination
Uses:
- Medical equipment
- Construction
- Automotive industry
- Plumbing
- Outdoor framework
- Braces and supports
- Lightweight structural applications
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Length of Stainless Steel Tubing?
The maximum length of stainless steel tubing varies depending on its heat treatment, corrosion resistance, and mechanical strength. It can range from 2 meters to 6 meters long.
What Is the Difference Between Welded and Seamless Stainless Steel Tubing?
Welded and seamless stainless steel tubing differ in their pressure ratings, bending characteristics and corrosion resistance. Seamless offers a higher pressure rating and better corrosion protection while welded is typically more cost effective and offers good performance in most applications. Both offer superior strength and durability over other materials.
Are There Any Special Considerations When Ordering Stainless Steel Tubing?
When ordering stainless steel tubing, it is important to consider corrosion protection, sizing accuracy, and alloy selection to ensure the best possible product is received. Careful consideration should be given to ensure the tube meets the application requirements.
What Types of Surface Finishes Are Available for Stainless Steel Tubing?
Polishing options, such as electro-polishing and mechanical polishing, can provide corrosion protection and a finishing treatment for metal surfaces. These options are available to improve the surface finish of a variety of metals, including stainless steel.
What Is the Difference Between Stainless Steel Tubing and Stainless Steel Pipe?
Stainless steel tubing is generally more precise in its dimensions than stainless steel pipe, and offers enhanced corrosion protection. Additionally, stainless steel tubing is more easily formed using bending and welding techniques.
Conclusion
Stainless steel tubing is an incredibly versatile material, offering superior strength, corrosion resistance, and durability.
With a wide range of sizes, shapes, and alloys available, it is easy to find the perfect tubing for your project.
From austenitic steel alloys to standard specifications, stainless steel tubing can be readily customized for any application.
With its strength and versatility, stainless steel tubing is a wise choice for any industry or application.
