It’s important to understand the difference between a tube and a pipe to facilitate your parts ordering process.
Too often, these terms are used interchangeably, but you need to know which one would work best for your application. Are you ready to finally understand when to use tubes versus pipes? ZR Tube is a trusted manufacturer of tubes and fittings, and the team is available if you have further questions after reading this informative guide.
Tubes Vs. Pipes: Know the Difference
Let’s start with a description of tubes and pipes before looking at factors that impact your inventory decisions. These parts serve unique purposes and look different from one another. As you’ll see, tubes work well for structural applications requiring tight tolerances. On the other hand, pipes reliably move gases and fluids throughout your facility. Keep reading to learn the essential differences between these categories.
What Are Tubes?
Generally, tubes are used for structural purposes, so the outer diameter (OD) is an exact number. When ordering tubes, you use OD and wall thickness (WT) to determine which size will meet your needs. Because tubes have tight manufacturing tolerances (measured OD versus actual OD), they cost more than pipes.
Material choice impacts the accuracy of tubing. Copper tubes have a measured OD that’s 1/8-inch larger than the actual OD. Stainless steel tube, steel, and aluminum tubes are accurate within 0.04 inches of the stated size, making these materials ideal for precise jobs with low tolerances.
What Are Pipes?
Pipes usually move fluids and gases from one location to another. For example, plumbing pipes remove wastewater from your home to the septic system or municipal sewer authority. Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) and Schedule (wall thickness) are used to categorize pipes for different purposes.
Nominal Pipe Sizes from 1/8” to 12” have a different outside diameter (OD) than the measured OD, following set standards. NPS doesn’t refer to the ID for smaller pipes, but it’s confusing because of how the standard was established. When in doubt, send your specifications to a knowledgeable salesperson to ensure you order the right pipe size for your projects in plumbing, engineering, construction, and other industries. Keep in mind that nominal OD doesn’t change no matter what wall thickness a pipe has.
How Are Tubes and Pipes Used Differently?
Although many people use these terms interchangeably, there are important differences in how you order the materials. Tubes and pipes also have different tolerances, as follows:
Outer diameter is important for tubes used in structural applications. For example, medical devices require high accuracy, with the OD determining maximum volume.
For pipes, capacity holds more importance, so you can effectively transport liquids and gas.
With a circular shape, pipes handle pressure well. However, it’s crucial to know the capacity requirements for liquid or gas contents.
What Shape and Size Works Best for Your Project?
If you need a square or rectangular shape, go with a tube. Both tubes and pipes come in round shapes. High-tolerance tubes with strict specifications work well when you need to meet high standards. To order pipes, use the nominal pipe size (NPS) standard and schedule number (wall thickness (schedule number). Keep the following in mind before placing your order:
Size: Familiarize yourself with the different diameters for tubing and pipe diameters.
Pressure and Temperature Rating: Does the fitting have the right specifications to hand the temperature and pressure needed for your intended application.
Connection Type.
Other Factors Affecting Your Decision
Tubes telescope or expand inside one another via sleeves. However, if you’re looking for a rigid material that holds its shape, consider durable plastic pipes. On the other hand, you can bend and twist tubing to meet your criterion. It won’t wrinkle or fracture.
Whereas pipes are hot rolled, tubes are formed through hot or cold rolling. However, manufacturers can galvanize both. How do size and strength factor into your purchasing decision? Pipes typically suit large jobs, whereas tubes work well when your design calls for small diameters. Additionally, tubes lend durability and strength to your project.
Contact us to order pipe fittings and tube fittings as well as other products needed to surpass the expectations of your customers.
Post time: Dec-24-2024