What is the Difference Between Tube and Pipe?

The main difference between a tube and a pipe lies in their shape, usage, and measurement. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Shape: Pipes are always round, while tubes can be round, square, rectangular, or oval.
2. Usage: Pipes are primarily used for distributing fluids and gases, and are designated by a nominal pipe size (NPS or DN) that represents a rough indication of the pipe diameter. Tubes, on the other hand, are used for structural purposes, mechanical applications, and instrumentation systems.
3. Measurement: Pipes are measured by their inside diameter (ID), while tubes are measured by their outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness (WT).
4. Pressure Rating: The most important mechanical parameters for pipes are the pressure rating, yield strength, and ductility. Tubes, however, have tighter manufacturing tolerances due to their structural and mechanical applications.
5. Production Process: Pipes are generally made to stock with highly automated and efficient processes, while tube manufacturing is more lengthy and laborious.
6. Delivery Time: Pipes can be delivered in a shorter time, while tubes usually have a longer delivery time.
7. Market Price: Pipes have a relatively lower price per ton than steel tubes, while tubes have a higher price due to lower mills productivity per hour and tighter manufacturing tolerances.

In summary, pipes are round tubular vessels used for distributing fluids and gases, while tubes are used for structural purposes, mechanical applications, and instrumentation systems. Pipes are measured by their ID, and tubes are measured by their OD and WT.

Comparative Table: Tube vs Pipe

The main difference between tube and pipe lies in their shapes, with pipes always being round and tubes being able to come in various shapes such as square, rectangular, or cylindrical. Here is a table summarizing the differences between tube and pipe:

In summary, tubes can have different shapes and are measured by their outside diameter and wall thickness, while pipes are always round and measured by their inside diameter and wall thickness. Tubes also have tighter manufacturing tolerances compared to pipes.