Introduction
Steel was first developed in the late 1800s, and continued to grow in popularity over time. In recent years, steel pipes have become popular due to their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Today, steel pipes are instrumental in many types of construction and manufacturing applications, from everyday items such as irrigation systems and pipes for home water supply to much larger projects such as bridges and buildings. Steel pipes are also essential for many industrial processes, including transportation of oil, natural gas and other hazardous materials.
A steel pipe is fabricated using a variety of techniques, including welding and forming processes. Steel pipes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including round, square, rectangular, and more. It is important to understand the different standard steel pipe terminology that is used to describe these sizes and shapes. Knowing the steel pipe terminology will ensure that you get the correct size and shape of pipe you need for your project.
Standard Steel Pipe Terminology
O.D: The abbreviation “O.D.” stands for outside diameter. This is the measurement of the diameter of the outside walls of the steel pipe.
I.D.: The abbreviation “I.D.” stands for inside diameter. This is the measurement of the size of the inside circumference of the pipe. It measures the diameter of the inside walls of the steel pipe.
N.P.S. (nominal pipe size): This is a standardized measurement of the size of a steel pipe. It denotes the pipe’s actual size as opposed to its outside diameter or interior diameter.
SCH (schedule number): This term is used to refer to the thickness of the wall in a pipe. It is measured by the number of thicknesses of steel in the pipe, with higher numbers representing thicker walls.
WT (wall thickness): This is the measurement of the thickness of the wall in a steel pipe. It is measured in inches and is typically the same as the SCH number.
FLG (flanged): Flanged pipes are pipes with a raised part at either end that provides additional support, usually for times when the pipe will be expected to carry more weight or pressurize in some way.
Threaded Pipe: Threaded pipes, as the name suggests, have threads along their length and are used to join pipes of different sizes. The threading ensures a secure connection and strong seal.
Gauge: Gauge is a standard measurement of the thickness of the steel used in a pipe and is usually expressed in decimal inches.
Seamless Pipe: A seamless pipe is a type of steel pipe in which no welding or connection is necessary. It is formed in a single piece and has no seams or joints.
Type: The type of steel pipe refers to the material and method of construction used. Common types of pipes include galvanized and stainless steel, among others.
Grades: The grade of a steel pipe is determined by its strength and longevity, and is generally expressed as a number — typically, the higher the number, the stronger the pipe.
Elbows: An elbow is a curved piece of pipe that allows a change of direction of a pipe, usually in a 90 degree angle.
Yield Strength: Yield strength is a measure of a pipe’s ability to withstand pressure without cracking or deforming. It is measured in pounds per square inch (psi).
Conclusion
Understanding steel pipe terminology is essential for any construction or manufacturing project that involves the use of steel pipes. Armed with the proper definitions of the various steel pipe terminology, you can be sure that you are getting the size and shape of pipes that you need, and that the pipes that you are using meet the demands of your project. While it will take a bit of extra effort to learn the different steel pipe vocabulary, the rewards for doing so are well worth it.
