By Material – Carbon Steel / GI / SS Tubing

As a quality steel tube manufacturer, Wanzhi Steel offers various steel tubes and pipes made of different materials, including carbon steel tubes, galvanized steel tubes, and stainless steel tubes. Let’s review their difference.

Carbon Steel Tube

Carbon steel tube is made of carbon steel, which is a combination of iron and carbon. According to the carbon content, we can find mild carbon steel tubes (less than 0.3%) and high carbon tubes ( up to 2%). With the increasing carbon content, the product becomes stronger and harder, but it is more difficult to weld. Carbon steel tube is mainly divided into hot-rolled and cold-rolled or cold-drawn tubes. It is known for its strength and its ability to withstand high temperatures. However, its corrosion resistance is poor.

Galvanized Steel Tube

Galvanized steel tube is a steel tube that is coated with a layer of zinc to prevent rust and corrosion. But the base metal is carbon steel. Once the zinc surface is broken, it will be corroded soon. Just like carbon steel, it is magnetic.

Stainless Steel Tube

Stainless steel is a kind of alloy steel, with Cr content greater than or equal to 13%. Its internal structure changes so that it is not easy to rust. So most stainless steel products are not magnetic.

Below is a table of the difference for your reference.

What to Consider When Choosing Steel Tube?

Before choosing steel tubes, there are some factors to consider.

1. Use Purpose / Environment

It means what you will use the steel tubes for. For example, if it will be used to carry something corrosive or it will be used in an extremely hot or cold environment, GI or SS tubing are the better choices.

2. Budget

Carbon steel pipe is the cheapest, while galvanized one will be more expensive, and stainless steel tube is the most expensive. You can choose according to your budget.

3. Appearance

If your pipes will be visible, you need also to take the appearance into account. Stainless steel is shiny and holds up if exposed to weather and other elements. Carbon steel is darker and has a matte finish look.  Anyway, you can contact Wanzhi Steel for help.