What is the difference between seamless tubes and ordinary steel tubes?

Seamless tubes (SMLS) are significantly different from ordinary steel pipes in many aspects. The following is a comparison from four aspects: definition, manufacturing process, performance and application fields.

1. Definition

Seamless tube: Made from a single piece of metal, there are no welding gaps or cast connections, so its strength and durability are higher than ordinary steel pipes. The quality of seamless steel tube is usually higher because more steps and processes are required in its production.

Ordinary steel tube: Usually welded from steel plates or strips, with welds (welded steel pipe). During the manufacturing process of ordinary steel pipes, two or more steel plates can be connected by welding.

2. Manufacturing process

Seamless tube: Manufacturing seamless steel tube requires a series of complex process steps, such as selecting appropriate raw materials, heating, plastic deformation, cooling, straightening, etc. Especially seamless steel tubes used in high-pressure or highly corrosive environments require additional heat treatment and surface treatment steps.

Ordinary steel tubes: The manufacture of ordinary steel pipes mainly relies on welding technology. The steel plates or strips are cut and welded according to the designed drawings, and finally formed into the required shape and size.

3. Performance differences

Seamless tube: Since seamless steel tube has no welds, its overall strength and durability are better. It is more resistant to high pressure, high temperature, and highly corrosive environments and can meet more demanding working environments.
Ordinary steel tube: Ordinary steel pipe has relatively poor strength and durability due to the presence of welds. However, its manufacturing cost is low and it is suitable for some occasions that do not require high performance.

4. Application fields

Seamless tube: Seamless steel tube is mainly used in pipeline systems in petroleum, natural gas, chemical industry, electric power and other industries, as well as in machinery manufacturing, construction and other fields. In these fields, high-quality steel pipes are required to withstand the effects of high pressure, high temperature and highly corrosive environments.

Ordinary steel tubes: Ordinary steel tubes are mostly used in basic engineering facilities, such as bridges, building structures, water pipes, etc. These fields do not have high requirements on the strength and durability of steel pipes, and more emphasis is placed on cost factors.

In summary, there are significant differences between seamless tubes and ordinary steel tubes in manufacturing processes, performance and application fields. When choosing which type of steel pipe to use, the decision needs to be made based on actual needs and application environment.

Tips: ASTM A106 seamless pressure pipe (also known as ASME SA106 pipe) is commonly used in the construction of oil and gas refineries, power plants, petrochemical plants, boilers, and ships where the piping must transport fluids and gases that exhibit higher temperatures and pressure levels.