What is the difference between a stainless steel pipe and stainless steel tubes?

Stainless steel pipes and stainless steel tubes are both used for conveying fluids or gases in various industries, but there are some differences between them:

Size and Shape: Pipes are generally characterized by their nominal pipe size (NPS) or diameter and wall thickness, whereas tubes are specified by their outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness or by their nominal bore (NB) size. Tubes tend to have more precise dimensions and can come in various shapes like round, square, or rectangular.

Manufacturing Process: Pipes are typically manufactured through a continuous extrusion process, while tubes are produced either through the seamless or welded process. Seamless tubes are formed from a solid billet of stainless steel, while welded tubes are made from strips or plates of stainless steel that are welded together.

Applications: Pipes are often used for high-pressure applications, such as in oil and gas industries or in plumbing systems. Tubes are more commonly used in structural applications, such as in construction, automotive, or aerospace industries, where precision and strength are required.

Strength and Durability: Both pipes and tubes are made of stainless steel, which offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability. However, the manufacturing process and intended application may dictate variations in strength and durability.

In summary, while both stainless steel pipes and tubes serve similar purposes, their differences lie in their size, shape, manufacturing process, and specific applications.