The Benefits and Application of Steel Pipes

Steel pipes are the most commonly used pipes in water supply systems. They are

also used in pipelines for natural gas, and sewerage systems. Although comparatively

expensive to other pipes, they hold the advantage of being able to withstand high

pressures and are available in more convenient lengths, and can also be welded easily,

thereby resulting in lower installation and transportation costs. These types of pipes

are highly efficient and can be used in small diameters as needed and are 100%

recyclable compared to other materials. The pipes can further be melted down and

turned into other usable material in industry. Furthermore, the high strength of these

pipes and resistance to damage caused by human errors, tree roots, and extreme weather

conditions make these pipes the ideal choice for most water and sewerage supply

systems.

The disadvantages of steel pipes include thermal conductivity, which is very poor

as there is a difference in heat transfer. These types of pipes are usually bonded

with aluminum or copper to increase thermal conductivity and improve heat transfer.

Cost is another issue, as these pipes are expensive and this is guided by the

misconception of being a one-time purchase. However,

Carbon steel pipes

are difficult to fabricate and lack the malleable qualities that other

materials have, therefore repairs and replacements of steel pipes are extra difficult.

Steel pipe is required in the majority of oil and gas production and pipeline

applications. ASME A53 and A106 and API 5L seamless, electric resistance welding

(ERW), and submerged arc welding (SAW)

steel pipe are commercially available and most commonly used in pipeline

systems. PVC, fiberglass, polypropylene, and other materials may be used in low-

pressure and utility applications. ASME B31.4 and B31.8 allow the use of alternate

materials in very restricted applications. Seamless pipe is seldom used in pipeline

applications because of the higher cost and limited availability. From a design and

regulatory perspective, pipe made with ERW and SAW seams is equivalent to seamless

pipe and is less costly. Note: This is not true for piping systems designed in

accordance with ASME B31.3.

For high-pressure pipeline, high-grade pipe, such as API 5L grades X42, X52, X60,

and X65, is selected because much thinner wall pipe can be used, which significantly

reduces pipe costs. Construction cost savings also are realized, as the welding time

is reduced and material shipping/handling costs are reduced.

Steel pipe is normally used for pipelines operating at a pressure of 100 psig or

more. Steel pipe withstands high pressures, is durable, and has a long operating life

cycle. Fiberglass, PVC, or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe is used in certain

instances for low-pressure gas gathering pipelines. Components of the pipeline include

the following: pipes, valves, fittings, and equipment such as metering, pumps, and

compressors.

In this book, we are concerned only with transporting hydrocarbons such as natural

gas, refined petroleum products, crude oil, and liquefied petroleum gas in steel

pipelines. Therefore, we will not deal with materials such as PVC pipe.

Hot rolled steel pipe is generally used aboveground for firewater

lines. Underground piping systems can be constructed of steel, cement-lined steel, or

high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Concrete is sometimes used but is seldom economical

except in large diameters. HDPE does not corrode, resists accumulation of scale, and

is very ductile and lightweight. But, because it fails when heated, it can only be

used in buried installations, where it is also protected from mechanical damage and

radiant heat.

High-performance butterfly valves and gate valves are recommended for block valves

in firewater distribution systems. They should provide reasonably tight shutoff and

use sealing materials that do not swell or deteriorate with age. Any valve that may be

buried, and that may therefore not receive frequent maintenance, should be very

durable.

Steel pipe should be used aboveground for firewater lines. Underground piping

systems can be constructed of steel, cement-lined steel, or high-density polyethylene

(HDPE). Concrete is sometimes used but is seldom economical except in large diameters.

HDPE does not corrode, resists accumulation of scale, and is very ductile and

lightweight. Because it fails when heated, HDPE pipe can only be used in buried

installations. Burial also provides protection from mechanical damage.

Layout

The topic of equipment and piping layout is discussed in Chapter 11. Issues to do

with the layout of a firewater system are described below.

In climates where freezing does not occur, above-ground installation of steel

firewater distribution lines has the advantages of low first cost and ease of

inspection and repair. In cold climates, distribution lines should be buried below the

frost line.

When possible, firewater mains should be arranged in loops around process facility

and tank farms. Shutoff valves should be located to allow isolation of system segments

for maintenance while still providing water for all facilities. The minimum water rate

with a section of pipe out of service should be at least 60% of the design rate at

design pressure for that area. A firewater header should be provided in each process

facility area to serve hose stations.

Steel pipes have various advantages for your next industrial or residential

project. Steel tubing is used in a variety of industries, from industrial

manufacturing to sculpture. One of the applications for steel tube is in plumbing,

where it is used to replace traditional plastic pipes with stainless steel pipes.

Stainless steel piping is more expensive than plastic piping, but it has a number of

advantages over the latter. Steel pipe buyers consider these advantages - 

ANTI-STAIN AND ANTI-CORROSION

Corrosion is the number one adversary of metal piping. The exterior of iron, steel

and concrete pipework will deteriorate due to soil and UV rays. Other types of piping

inside walls appear to rust, become damaged by abrasion, or accumulate debris.

However, due to corrosion resistance of stainless steel, this happens rarely. This

gives stainless steel an advantage in areas such as sanitary water distribution and

hospital applications.

VALUE

When you buy stainless steel 316 pipes, you're getting a durable product that

will last for decades. It is a long-lasting substance that is simple to maintain and

install. Because of its corrosion-resistant qualities, stainless steel is low-

maintenance and unlikely to need to be replaced for decades.

STABILITY AND ADAPTABILITY

Stainless steel can be treated with various elements such as molybdenum, nickel,

or nitrogen to improve its corrosion resistance. Stainless steel can endure high

temperatures. By adding various materials to stainless steel, thin pipe walls can be

achieved, resulting in a lighter finished product that is suited for a wide range of

commercial and industrial applications.

ATTRACTIVENESS

Exposed precision steel pipe and fittings are a good choice for

commercial premises because the material is naturally bright and attractive.

ENVIRONMENT-FRIENDLY

Stainless steel is not a petroleum-based product. Unlike other pipe materials, it

does not require any type of coating or lining. When you require disposing of or

repairing stainless steel piping, it is 100% recyclable, reducing the environmental

impact.

Steel, like iron, has helped building in particular since it is a more practical

alternative to other metals. Steel is corrosion-resistant, making it more long-lasting

and cost-effective. It also means that, because they can survive them, these pipes can

be used in regions that are constantly exposed to the elements.

Steel pipes can be used for a variety of purposes.

DOMESTIC BUSINESS

Stainless steel 304 pipes are a popular choice in many homes since they are more

durable, which means you won't have to replace them every few seasons. Any plumber

would recommend stainless steel pipe for your tub, tap, and the rest of the structure,

especially exposed pipes, because it is more resistant to the elements. They're

also thought to be hardier.

INDUSTRY OF MEDICINE

If doctors use it, it must be safe, therefore that's another steel tick. Steel

pipes have been utilized for everything in the medical field, including shattered

bones, medical equipment, surgical tools, dental treatments, and even pharmaceutical

assistance. Steel's versatility is a testament to its durability, protection, and

adaptability.

INDUSTRY OF CONSTRUCTION

This is one of the most obvious uses for Q235 seamless steel pipe.

They are preferred by many construction companies because they are both pliable and

sturdy. Steel pipes are utilized as building piles when the soil is too thin to

support the weight of big structures. The structure itself, as well as its

architectural style, are frequently included. In fact, construction companies are one

of the major steel pipe buyers. 

Steel pipes are frequently used in the construction of ships, oil refineries, and

even space stations, and they are housed in a shipyard. Steel pipes are a good choice

for building on the ground, in the ocean, or in space.

Get it from authentic and reputed industrial pipe suppliers. For such requirement

visit International Pipe and Supply in OKC.