The Versatility of Stainless-Steel Tubes

Steel can be used to create a versatile alloy known as stainless steel. The addition of chromium to it helps increase corrosion resistance, which is what has given stainless steel its name. Stainless steel pipes are of so many types that it may be confusing to pick the right one for a business application. It is possible to find stainless steel tube in a wide range of sizes and designs.

In most cases, tubing creates a round image, but here stainless steel tube is available in different shapes, ranging from rectangular and round to oval and flat bars. Different stainless steel tubes have variable measurement protocols. Here is the classification according to size:

  • Metric/Square/Fractional – This type of stainless-steel tubing is denoted by its wall thickness or OD (Outside Diameter). The three types of classifications have different sizes. Square tubing is highly suitable for many commercial applications due to its mechanical properties such as architectural appeal, strength, and capacity to withstand extreme weather.
  • Hypodermic – This tubing is commonly seen in several medical and industrial applications. It is known for easy use and ease of cleanliness. Hypodermic needles are generally found to be made of grade 304 stainless steel tubing, which allows good quality finish through thin wall tubing.

Industry Applications

Stainless steel tubing is popularly being used across several industries. These industries are just as diverse as the total number of tubing components in use. Here are some examples:

  • Airlines – Aircraft hydraulic lifts use tubes that comprise of high chromium and nickel percentages
  • Mills and Manufacturing Lines – Stainless steel is being used in machinery here
  • Automotive – High quality mufflers are prepared by using stainless steel tubes
  • Heat and Gas Lines – Stainless steel tubes here help them withstand extreme pressure

Defense, aerospace, and several consumer industries purchase robust steel tubes made using rugged alloys like stainless steel. As per corrosion and temperature needs of clients, composition of material is altered.

Is 304 Stainless Steel Pipe a Good Choice?

For most piping and tubing applications, 304 stainless steel pipes are greatly suitable due to their high resistance to chemicals and corrosion. However, this variety is not compatible with applications where temperatures drop between 800-1640 F as it is susceptible to carbide precipitation. 304L is able to overcome this problem by virtue of a lower carbon content limit, making it suitable for welding and applications of higher temperatures.

General Corrosion Resistance

Stainless steel tubing made from general category steel is appropriate for applications where corrosion resistance is the greatest requirement. Stainless steel which has high nickel and chromium contents will be able to offer the highest amount of resistance here.  

Stainless steel tubing can also be used in contact with sensitive products like food. For all applications like these, sanitization is always the highest priority. Since stainless steel tubing does not tarnish, possesses high corrosion resistance, and can be easily kept clean, it is suitable for sanitary purposes like this.

For purchasing stainless steel tubes, businesses must remember to get in touch with reputed companies with several years of experience.