One of our most asked questions is “What’s the difference between pipe and tube”?Although pipes and tubes may look similar, they are quite different in nomenclature and sizing.Here are some of the main differences between the two products:
Size
Pipe is typically available in larger sizes than tube.
Shape
Pipes are always round in shape. Tubes can be square, rectangular or round, as shown in the image to the right.
Strength
Tube is stronger than pipe.
Metal Types
Tube is available in hot rolled steel and cold rolled steel. Pipe is typically black steel. Both items can be galvanized.
Rigidity
Although copper and brass tubes can be shaped relatively easily, tubes are are typically rigid. Pipe, on the other hand, are invariably rigid and cannot be shaped without special equipment.
Applications
Only pipes are pressure rated and intended to be used for the transference of fluids or gas. Tubes, on the other hand, are used in structural applications.
Telescoping abilities
Tube can be telescoped. Remember to account for the flash weld inside the tube. Pipe, on the other hand, does not have a flash weld. DOM Tube is the best material for telescoping because the inside flash weld has been removed.
Measurement
Pipes are only provided with an inside (nominal) diameter and a “schedule”. There’s an easy way to remember this: since pipe is used to transfer fluids or gas, the size of the opening through which the fluids or gas can pass through is probably more important to you than the outer dimensions of the pipe. Tube measurements, are provided as an outside diameter and set ranges of wall thickness.
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