Steel pipes are cylindrical tubes made from steel used in many ways across manufacturing and infrastructure. The primary use of steel pipes is in transporting liquid or gas underground—including oil, gas, and water. However, pipes of varying sizes are used throughout manufacturing and construction. A common household manufacturing example is the narrow steel pipe that runs the cooling system in fridges. Construction uses pipes for heating and plumbing. Structures can be built using steel pipe of varying sizes, such as handrails, bike racks, or pipe bollards.
The manufacturing process for steel pipes involves shaping a solid steel billet into a cylindrical form. Different methods, such as seamless or welded techniques, can achieve this. Seamless pipes are produced without welding joints, while welded pipes are formed by joining the edges of steel plates or coils.
Steel pipes find extensive use in many sectors, including:
- Water Transportation: Steel pipes are commonly used for transporting water from one location to another. They are suitable for underground and aboveground installations, thanks to their durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Oil and Gas Industry: Steel pipes play a crucial role in extracting, transporting, and distributing oil and natural gas. They are used for drilling, well casing, and as pipelines for carrying oil and gas long distances.
- Construction and Infrastructure: Steel pipes are integral to the construction industry, used for structural purposes such as building frameworks, support columns, and piling foundations. They are also employed in infrastructure projects like bridges, tunnels, and highways.
- Plumbing Systems: Steel pipes are used for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They are often employed for water supply lines, sewage disposal, and gas distribution networks.
- HVAC: Steel pipes are used in HVAC systems to transport hot or cold water and for ductwork and exhaust systems.