What Is The Difference Between Pipe And Tube
Introduction
Although the terms are used interchangeably, pipes and tubes carry fundamental differences based on what they are applied for and the kind of industry to which they are used in. These differences are really important to make the appropriate choice of material for projects. Pipes are usually the transporters of fluids, gases, or solids while tubes are primarily structural engineering entities. If one does not understand these differences, applications may turn inefficient or end up in failures.
In detail, the guide discusses the difference and similarity between pipes and tubes. It helps compare these products to make good decisions on which product would best fit your needs-whether in construction, automobiles, or chemicals.
What Are Pipes and Tubes ?
Pipes
Pipes are hollow, cylindrical structures mainly constructed to carry fluids, gases, or solids under pressure. They form an integral part of plumbing, oil and gas transport, and industrial systems. Most pipes are made of steel, PVC, copper, and aluminum. Pipelines are usually defined by the inner diameter (ID) which specifies the amount of material to be moved.
Tubes
Tubes are cylindrical and can either be used for structural or precision engineering. Unlike pipes, the outer diameter determines tubes. They are also commonly used for heat exchangers, medical appliances, and parts of automobiles. The tube materials include stainless steel and brass among others, and glass or plastic. Also, shapes vary from round, square to rectangular.
Tube vs. Pipe Classification
Classification of tubes and pipes is necessary since they are used for various purposes and follow different standards based on their applications. Now, let’s get a closer look at how they are classified.
Pipes
The classification of pipes is primarily done based on their pressure ratings, which are determined by their thickness and diameter. The main types of pipe classifications are:
Pressure Ratings (Schedules) :
Pipes are often classified by “schedules,” such as Schedule 40, Schedule 80, and Schedule 160.
The ratings refer to the relationship of wall thickness to diameter.
The higher the schedule number, the thicker the pipe’s wall.
Schedule 40 is common for residential plumbing.
Schedule 80 or higher is required for most industrial applications where high pressure is involved.
Tubes
Unlike tubes, piping is classified based on function and mechanical properties since often tubes require higher precision and accuracy in dimensions.
Use-Related Classifications:
Structural Tubes : They are used in building and structural applications where the tubes need to have more strength and stability.
Mechanical Tubes : They are used in machinery and equipment. In this case, strength and accuracy are of utmost importance.
Precision Tubes : These are applied in very high-accuracy applications such as medical instruments and instrumentation.
Pipe Material MOC
01. Cast Iron Pipe :
- Cast iron pipe is used especially in low pressure underground lines.
- Most of water line are made of cast iron and cast iron prevent corrosion. so that pipe does not get corroded soon.
- This metal heavier than other metal. This pipe usually come in 12 foot length with a bell and spigot joint. Filling lead between bell and spigot.
02. G.I Pipe (Galvanized Iron) :
- Galvanized iron pipe generally used in cold water line.
- Galvanizing pipe means that layer of zinc is added to prevent the pipe from rusting. The pipe is zinc plated to prevent corrosion.
03. M.S Pipe (Milled steel) :
- This pipe used in hot water and steam line. It is stronger than G.I pipe.
04. Acid Proof Stoneware
- This material does not undergo any acid treatment. This pipe line used in acid but it is less durable.
- This pipe heated with a slight increase show decay cracks and breaks. It made with bell and spigot joint in temperature.
05. Glass Pipe :
- Glass pipe is stronger than stoneware pipe. A change in temperature has no effect on it.
- Often steel pipes and vessels have glass coating on this inside. Small scale industrial reactors are also often glass coated.
06. Plastic Pipe :
- Many type of pipes and tubes made of plastic are available in the market. The pipe is used in materials with limited temperature.
- This pipe is also used of water. Plastic pipe is made of cut and welded joint.
- It is lighter than other pipe.
- Example, PVC (poly vinyl chloride, PP (plastic pipe), PVA (poly vinyl acetate), Ebonite Hard rubber, Teflon (poly tetra fluoro ethylene), Polythene, Polypropylene.
07. Lead Pipe
Lead was favored due to its durability, malleability, and resistance to corrosion.
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Tube material MOC
01. Carbon steel Tube :
- Used in general-purpose applications.
- Suitable for moderate temperatures and pressures.
- Cost-effective but prone to corrosion unless coated.
02. Stainless steel Tube :
- Many grade type MOC available in SS304, SS316, SS316L, SS904L etc.
- This tube is corrosion resistant and uses in food and pharma industries.
- High Pressure and Temperature handle.
03. Copper Tube :
- Good thermal conductor.
- Used in heat exchanger, plumbing and HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems.
04. Nickel Tube :
- Nickel tube used for protect against corrosion, erosion, oxidation and abrasion.
- Nickel pipe suitable for high temperature and cryogenic application.
- Long service life and low maintenance requirements.
- Not suitable for sulfur-containing compounds at high temperatures.
05. Aluminium Tube :
- These tubes are made of aluminium, a material that is ductile, lightweight, and thermally and electrically conductive.
- Used in Hydraulic systems, aerospace, and high-pressure piping.
- used in HVAC and plumbing systems.
06. Titanium Tube :
- Melting point around 1,668°C (3,034°F), enabling use in high-temperature applications.
- Used in heat exchanger, reactor and vessel, piping system.
- Highly aggressive chemicals, including acids, alkalis, and halogens.
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Difference Between Pipe And Tube
| Pipe | Tube |
|---|---|
| 1. The pipe has a thick wall. | 1. The wall of the tube is thin. |
| 2. The diameter of pipe is large. | 2. The diameter of the tube is small. It is also called a narrow-bore tube. |
| 3. the pipe usually available in length of 10 to 40 feet. | 3. The tube cannot be bent. |
| 4. The pipe made of metal can be bent. | 4. The surface of the tube is smooth. |
| 5. The inner and outer surfaces of the pipe are rough. | 5. Soldering or compression fitting is used to join the tube pieces. |
| 6. To increase the length of the pipe, screw joints, flange joints or welding can be made. | 6. The tube is made by an extruder, so there is no joint of any kind. |
| 7. The pipe is made by welding, casting. | 7. The tube is usually made of copper, aluminum, rubber, slate, lead, glass or plastic. |
| 8. The pipe is usually made of cast iron, mild steel, stainless steel or rubber plastic. |
Conclusion
The decision between pipe and tube depends on the specific needs matched with transportation, structural design, or precision engineering. The proper selection will surely ensure the best performance with safety in any industrial process.
