Pipe and Tube Differences Explained
Selecting the right material for your project starts with understanding the differences between pipe and tube. This guide dives into their features, including measurements, wall thickness, and practical uses, to help you confidently choose the right option for your project.
What is the Difference Between Pipe and Tube?
Though they might seem similar at first glance, pipes and tubes have subtle but important differences that affect their applications and specifications.
- Applications and standards: Pipes are primarily used for transporting fluids and gases, adhering to standards that focus on pressure capacity and flow rates. Tubes, on the other hand, are often used in structural and specialized applications, with standards emphasizing precision and strength.
- Sizing and measurement: Pipes are measured by their nominal pipe size (NPS), a standard based on the internal diameter (ID) and schedule (wall thickness). Tubes are measured by their outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness, offering tighter tolerances for precision.
Typical Characteristics of Pipe and Tube
| Property | Pipe | Tube |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Always round | Round, square, or rectangular |
| Measurement | Nominal pipe size (NPS), a standard based on the internal diameter (ID) and schedule (wall thickness). | Outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness. |
| Wall Thickness | Expressed as a schedule (e.g., Sch 10, Sch 40, Sch 80), determines pressure capacity. Higher schedules mean thicker walls for greater pressure resistance. | Specified in exact measurements (gauge, inches, or millimeters). Note: Smaller gauge numbers indicate thicker walls, contributing to strength and durability. |
| Applications | Conveying substances like water, oil, or natural gas; common in plumbing, oil and gas, and HVAC systems. *Note: We have seen aluminum pipe used for handrailing as well. The suggested applications are not official rules but rather guidelines. | Structural uses like handrails, automotive components, medical devices, and aerospace systems; requires precision and structural integrity. |
| Tolerances | Looser tolerances; precision is less critical for fluid transport. | Tighter tolerances ensure accurate dimensions, crucial for structural and mechanical applications. |
| Material Options | Commonly hot-rolled; available in stainless steel, aluminum, copper, etc. | Can be hot-rolled or cold-rolled; available in stainless steel (round, square), aluminum (round, square, rectangular), brass, etc., for functional and aesthetic purposes. |
| Telescoping | Cannot telescope due to size variations. | Can telescope, making it suitable for nested or sliding components. |
| Production Range/Size Range | Wide size range (up to 80 inches and more). Cut2SizeMetals offers pipe sizes up to 8 inches in stock, with the capability to order custom sizes for unique project needs. | Structural tubing commonly reaches 5 inches OD, with industrial applications exceeding that. Cut2SizeMetals carries tubing up to 4 inches OD and offers custom ordering for larger dimensions. |
Ordering Your Pipe and Tube
How pipe is measured
Pipe measurement: Nominal Size (ID) x Schedule (Wall Thickness) x Length
Pipes are typically measured by their nominal pipe size (NPS), which is a standardized way to describe the pipe’s internal diameter (ID). However, the nominal size does not always match the exact ID of the pipe.
For example, Aluminum Pipe:
- A 4-inch Schedule 40 pipe has the measurements: 4.5” OD x 4.026” ID x .237” wall thickness
- A 4-inch Schedule 10 pipe has the measurements: 4.5” OD x 4.260” ID x .120” wall thickness
This difference occurs because the wall thickness, defined by the schedule (e.g., Sch 10, Sch 40, Sch 80), reduces the actual ID. As the schedule increases, the pipe walls become thicker, and the actual ID decreases, even though the nominal size remains the same.
The NPS standard provides consistency, allowing pipes to be categorized and specified across various wall thicknesses without confusion.
How tube is measured
Tube measurement: Outside Diameter (OD) x Wall Thickness x Length
Tube is measured by its outside diameter (OD) and its wall thickness. Tubing will keep the same OD no matter what the wall thickness is. Tubing has a tighter manufacturing tolerance than pipe.
For example: 1" Aluminum Round Tube (6061-T6)
-
A 1” round tube has the measurements: 1” (OD) x Wall thickness: .065” (16 gauge)
-
A 1” round tube has the measurements: 1” (OD) x Wall thickness: .125” (1/8”)
How tube is measured: Round, Square, Rectangular
How to Determine What You Need for Your Project
Choosing between pipe and tube depends on the specific requirements of your project. Here are some guiding questions to help you decide:
- What is the purpose of the material?
- If you need to transport fluids or gases, choose pipe.
- If your project requires structural integrity, precision, or aesthetic appeal, go with tube.
- What dimensions are critical?
- For pipe: If the internal diameter (ID) is crucial for capacity and flow, such as in fluid or gas transport systems, choose pipe. The ID determines how much substance can flow through the pipe.
- For tube: If the outside diameter (OD) is important for fit, precision, or stability in structural applications, choose tube. The OD ensures that the tube fits as needed in your design.
- What materials and finishes are necessary?
- Consider whether you need corrosion resistance, aesthetic finishes, or specific material properties.
- Are tight tolerances important?
- Plumbing systems can typically accommodate the looser tolerances of piping.
- Structural or mechanical projects often require the precision of tubing.
- Do you need telescoping capabilities?
- If telescoping is required, tube is the better choice.
Answering these questions will guide you to the right choice based on the demands of your project. Still not sure what to choose? Contact us today, we’re happy to answer your questions and ensure you select the best material for your needs.
Common Questions About Pipe & Tube
Can pipe and tube be used interchangeably?
Which is stronger, pipe or tube?
What does pipe schedule mean, and how does it affect wall thickness?
Can pipes or tubes be galvanized?
Contact the Experts at Cut2SizeMetals
At Cut2SizeMetals.com, we offer a variety of pipes and tubes to meet your project’s needs. Our custom cutting and fast shipping services ensure you get the right material, sized perfectly for your application.
Still have questions? Our team at Cut2SizeMetals is here to help! Call us today at (812) 429-1634 and let us assist you in finding the perfect pipe or tube for your project.
Cut2SizeMetals provides general properties and typical uses for the products we carry; however, the suitability of a material for any application or the manner of its use is the sole responsibility of the customer. If you have specific requirements for your application, we strongly suggest contacting us before purchasing. For specific questions or further assistance, feel free to call us at (812) 429-1634. We're here to help!
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