Pipe vs. Tubing
Pipe and tubing aren’t the same thing.
At first glance, round tubing and steel pipe can look almost identical. But despite their similar appearance, they are sized differently and typically used for different purposes.
What Is Steel Pipe?
Steel pipe is primarily designed to carry liquids, gases, or other materials through a piping system.
Pipe is sized using Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) and schedules. The nominal size does not necessarily match the pipe's actual outside diameter.
For example, a 2-inch nominal steel pipe actually has an outside diameter of 2.375 inches.
The pipe schedule determines the wall thickness. As the schedule increases, the wall thickness increases and the inside diameter decreases, while the outside diameter stays the same. Read more about that here.
What Is Mechanical Tubing?
Mechanical tubing is commonly used for structural and mechanical applications, including frames, supports, railings, machinery, and fabricated assemblies.Unlike pipe, tubing is generally specified by its actual outside dimensions and wall thickness.
For example, 2-inch round mechanical tubing has an outside diameter of 2 inches.
Pipe vs. Tubing: What's the Difference?
The easiest way to remember the difference is:
Pipe is primarily made to carry something.
Tubing is primarily made to support or build something.
So, even though a piece of round tubing may look like pipe, a 2-inch pipe and a 2-inch tube are not actually the same size.
Choosing the Right Product
Understanding how pipe and tubing are sized can help you choose the right material for your project and avoid ordering the wrong size.We stock steel pipe, as well as round, square, and rectangular tubing, in a variety of sizes and wall thicknesses.
Helpful Links
Categories: Steel Products