Difference Between Tube and Pipe

Have you ever wondered if there is a difference between steel tube and steel pipe? Are these words interchangeable to describe the same cylindrical piece of metal? As it turns out, there is indeed a significant difference and they are not synonymous. So let's take a look at the differences.

1. Measuring Diameter

This might not seem like a big difference, but it actually is. Steel tube is measured from outside edge to outside edge, while pipe is measured only for the internal opening. This is because steel tube has its strength determined by the thickness of its walls, and steel pipe's usefulness is determined by the volume it can hold. It is common to find a 12-inch pipe, but it would be extremely rare to find a 12-inch tube. Tubes are used in applications that require a smaller size.

2. Structure

Steel tube does not have to be cylindrical. It can be square or some other shape. Pipe, on the other hand, is always round. Tube can have a seam while pipe is a uniform piece. Pipe tends to be used to carry liquids, so having a solid piece means there are no weak spots that can break.

3. Rigidity

Pipe is rigid and cannot be shaped without special equipment. With the exception of copper and brass, tubes can be shaped with some effort. Bending and coiling tubing can be done without excessive distortion, wrinkling or fracturing.

4. Production

Pipes are produced in large lots, while tubes are made in much smaller lots, due to the more lengthy production process because of quality checks of key dimensions, like straightness, roundness, wall thickness, and more. This, in turn, make a difference in the last category.

5. Price

Pipes are much cheaper than tube due to the stricter nature of production for tube.

At Ohio Galvanized Tube, we have been supporting all types of applications by producing top quality steel pipes and tubing for over 20 years for the Cleveland area and all across the country. We proudly manufacture the GATORSHIELD® A500 mechanical steel tube, which is great for outdoor uses like playgrounds, greenhouse framing, solar framing and more. When you want a company that supports these community efforts with the highest quality steel tubing available on the market, contact us today.

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