Advantages and applications of ERW pipes in construction

ERW (Electric Resistance Welding) pipes are widely used in construction due to their high efficiency and economy, especially in structural support, fluid transportation and other fields. The following are its main advantages and application scenarios:

1. High production efficiency
The production process of ERW steel pipes is highly automated and the welding speed is fast, which can greatly improve production efficiency.
Continuous roll forming + high-frequency welding, the production speed can reach 20~50 meters/minute (3~5 times that of spiral welded pipes), suitable for large-scale purchases.

No filling material is required, and the welding process is highly automated.

2. Excellent dimensional accuracy
The outer diameter tolerance can be controlled at ±0.5% (such as DN200 steel pipe tolerance ±1mm), and the ovality is ≤1%D, which is better than submerged arc welded pipe (SAWL).
High wall thickness uniformity (±10%), suitable for precision assembly (such as steel structure truss connection).

3. Significant cost advantage
Due to the high efficiency of the production process and the saving of materials, the cost of ERW steel pipes is relatively low and suitable for large-scale production and application.
The material utilization rate is >95%, saving 15%~20% of the cost compared with seamless steel pipes.

4. Reliable mechanical properties
Modern high-frequency welding technology can make the weld strength reach 90%~95% of the parent material (ASTM A53).
Welding stress can be eliminated by online heat treatment (such as medium-frequency induction annealing).

5. Good surface quality
The surface of ERW steel pipes is smooth, flat, and beautiful, and the weld quality is high, which reduces the quality problems caused by weld problems.

Typical building application scenarios:

1. Building structure field

Frame structure:
Used for columns and beams (such as square tubes 100×100×4mm, round tubes Φ114×4mm), replacing some H-shaped steel, reducing weight by 20%~30%.
Trusses and grids:
ERW round tubes (such as Φ168×6mm) are used in large-span spatial structures (such as stadiums and airport terminals), and nodes are directly welded or flanged.

2. Fluid transportation system

Water supply and drainage pipelines:
Galvanized ERW pipes are used for indoor and outdoor water supply, and the corrosion resistance of galvanized ERW pipes is more than 25 years.
Fire sprinkler system, working pressure below 1.6MPa is the best cost performance.

Fire protection system:
Sprinkler pipes use ERW steel pipes and need to pass the 2.5MPa water pressure test.
Fire hydrant pipes usually use Sch40 series (such as DN100, wall thickness 5.7mm).

3. Temporary engineering facilities

Scaffolding and support frame
Formwork support system

4. Decoration and enclosure structure

Guardrail and enclosure:
ERW steel pipes are used as temporary enclosure columns in municipal engineering, and the cost is 30% lower than that of seamless steel pipes.

Curtain wall keel:
ERW square pipes with galvanized or sprayed surface are used for glass curtain wall support frames.

Limitations:
Not suitable for ultra-high pressure: the design pressure is usually ≤4.0MPa (seamless steel pipes can reach more than 50MPa).
Low-temperature toughness is limited: special evaluation is required for environments below -20℃ (such as Charpy V-notch impact test).

Risk of weld corrosion: Galvanized pipe welds need to be sprayed with anti-corrosion coating.

FAQ:

1. What are the main applications of ERW steel pipe?
ERW steel pipe is mainly used for structural applications, pipelines, gas transmission, and various other construction needs.

2. How does ERW steel pipe compare to seamless steel pipe?
Seamless steel pipe is generally stronger and more durable, while ERW steel pipe is a cost-effective and durable alternative suitable for a variety of applications.

3. What sizes are available for ERW steel pipe?
ERW steel pipe is available in a variety of sizes and wall thicknesses, making it a versatile product.

4. Can ERW steel pipe be recycled?
Yes, ERW steel pipe is highly recyclable, which helps reduce environmental impact and promotes sustainability in the construction industry.

5. How does the installation process of ERW steel pipe differ from other types of steel pipe?
The installation process of ERW steel pipe generally follows similar pipe standards, but care must be taken to ensure the integrity of the welds during installation.

Conclusion:

ERW steel pipes have become the mainstream pipes in the construction field due to their cost-effectiveness and standardized advantages, especially suitable for medium and low pressure projects with high dimensional accuracy and tight construction period. When selecting, it is necessary to combine the specific working conditions and refer to standards such as API 5L and EN 10219 for technical confirmation.

Read more: Carbon Steel ERW Pipe Specification or API 5L ERW Line Pipe Standard & Grade