SSAW Steel Pipe for Water Pipeline

Spiral Submerged Arc Welded (SSAW) pipes are commonly used for water supply pipelines. Because the spiral weld seam forms a certain angle with the pipe axis, the stress distribution at the weld seam is more uniform, which improves the pipe's pressure-bearing capacity. In contrast, straight seam submerged arc welded pipes require the pressing of single steel plates during large-diameter production, resulting in a complex process and higher costs. Therefore, SSAW pipes are more commonly used for large-diameter water supply pipelines.

Advantages of SSAW Steel Pipes for Water Supply

1. Good pressure-bearing performance: The spiral weld seam forms a certain angle with the pipe axis, resulting in uniform pressure distribution and strong resistance to internal pressure.
2. Wide diameter range: Large diameters from DN200 to DN3000 and above can be produced to meet the needs of main pipeline networks.
3. Low production cost: Continuous rolling process, high efficiency, and lower cost compared to straight seam welded pipes.
4. Flexible wall thickness: Wall thickness ranges from 4.0 to 25.4 mm, allowing for flexible selection according to different pressure ratings.

5. Convenient transportation and installation: Custom-length production reduces the number of on-site welding joints and shortens the construction cycle.

▶ For a detailed comparison of SSAW, LSAW, and ERW pipes, see our [SSAW vs LSAW vs ERW: Which to Choose?].

Common Specifications and Standards

Common Specification Range:

Nominal Diameter (DN): DN200 ~ DN3000
Outer Diameter (OD): 219mm ~ 3048mm
Wall Thickness (WT): 4.0mm ~ 25.4mm
Single Length: 6m ~ 18m (Custom length production)

Standards for SSAW Water Pipes

Internal Corrosion Protection Requirements—Drinking Water Pipelines

Spiral steel pipes used for transporting drinking water must have their inner walls treated with anti-corrosion coating to ensure water quality safety. Anti-corrosion materials used in drinking water pipelines must hold a sanitary permit for drinking water safety products issued by a provincial-level or higher health department and meet the relevant national standards.

Common Internal Corrosion Protection Methods

▶ For a full comparison of coating types, see our [Coated Carbon Steel Pipe: Types, Functions & Applications].

Identification and Traceability of Large-Diameter Spiral Steel Pipes

Large-diameter spiral steel pipes are a primary choice for water supply pipelines. The pipe body should be clearly marked with the following information for easy traceability and acceptance:
● Manufacturer's name or trademark
● Product standard number
● Steel grade and specifications (outer diameter × wall thickness)
● Furnace number or batch number
● Production date

In the daily maintenance of household water supply pipelines, the key to preventing leaks lies in strictly following the process requirements during construction to ensure project quality. Meanwhile, it is essential to establish an awareness of regular maintenance, master correct cleaning methods, and take preventative measures.

Installation Requirements

● Small-diameter water supply pipes can be connected by threads, with 2-3 threads exposed at the joint; large-diameter pipes should be connected by welding or flanges.
● After installation, pipes should be secured with pipe clamps or supports promptly, with spacing meeting design requirements.
● Pipe connections to fittings and valves should be secure and free from looseness.
● A hydrostatic pressure test should be conducted after installation, with a pressure holding time not less than the specified value. Visually and tactilely check for leaks.
● Check all faucets and valves for levelness, smooth operation, unobstructed water flow, and leaks.

● Check that the water meter is functioning properly.

Winter Protection and Pipeline Maintenance

a. Regularly use professional pipeline maintenance agents to clean, disinfect, and sterilize pipes, keeping the water supply unobstructed and preventing pathogen growth.

b. When cleaning pipes, use high-sterilization products certified by professional institutions to achieve sterilization, deodorization, cleaning, and anti-clogging effects.

Recommendations for Water Supply Pipeline Selection

1. General Municipal Water Supply (DN200-DN1000, Pressure ≤1.6MPa)
US Standard: ASTM A53 Gr.B or API 5L Gr.B
European Standard: EN 10217-1 P235TR

2. Long-Distance Water Transmission Trunk Lines (DN800-DN2000, Pressure 1.6-4.0MPa)
US Standard: API 5L X42 / X52 (PSL2)
European Standard: EN 10217-5 P265GH

3. Drinking Water Pipelines
Regardless of whether US or European standards are used, internal corrosion protection treatment (such as FBE, cement mortar lining) is required, and the corrosion protection material must meet drinking water safety certification.

4. Structural Applications (Intake Piles, Supports)
US Standard: ASTM A252 Grade 2/3

European Standard: EN 10219-1 S355J2H

Need SSAW Steel Pipes for Your Water Pipeline Project?

We supply SSAW pipes with diameters from DN200 to DN3000, wall thickness 4.0–25.4 mm, and various coatings. Contact our team for specifications, standards, and quotations.

▶ [Request a Quote]

Read more:

●  SSAW Steel Pipe Process Performance 

●  SSAW Steel Pipe Sizes Chart

●  Spiral Welded Pipe Manufacturing Process

●  Packaging Methods of Anti-corrosion Spiral Steel Pipes