Understanding the Difference Between Pipes and Tubes
Do you know how to distinguish pipes from tubes? Many people use the two terms interchangeably and don’t even realize that there’s a difference. While the two are similar in function, a few key things make them distinct from each other. This guide will help you with understanding the difference between pipes and tubes and identifying which is the most appropriate for your needs.
What Are Pipes?
Pipes are a type of tubular that’s round in shape. They’re normally used to transport liquids, gases, powders, or other substances. The standard by which pipes are measured is their Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) in addition to their wall thickness, which is marked by a schedule number. NPS gives a rough estimate of a pipe’s outside diameter (OD), but the two values don’t always match precisely. The inside diameter (ID) of a pipe can be found by subtracting the pipe’s schedule times two from the pipe’s OD. It’s important to note the ID of the pipe since its nominal OD does not change, but a pipe’s capacity is determined by the ID.
What Are Tubes?
Tubes are similar to pipes, but they have a different function and can also have a different shape. They can be square, oval, rectangular, or round; their main use is structural rather than one of transport. Tubes are a key part of the heat exchange process and are used in many pressurized or mechanical applications. The measurements of a tube are indicated differently than those of a pipe: rather than using NPS, a tube’s measurement is always indicated by its OD and WT. These measurements will be given either in inches or millimeters.
Though pipes and tubes are similar in many ways, they have a few key differences that make each a better fit for certain functions. Now that you understand the difference between pipes and tubes , you’ll be better equipped to choose the best option for your application. Both options are available in stainless steel varieties, so no matter which type you choose, CMPI is happy to provide you with our stainless steel polishing services to make your pipes or tubes functional and attractive.
