Pipe vs Tube

Pipes and tubes are two essential components in various industrial and construction applications, used for transportation of fluids, gases, and solids. Despite the similarities, pipes and tubes have distinct differences, which determine their suitability for specific applications.

Understanding the difference between pipes and tubes is crucial in selecting the right material for your project, ensuring safety, and avoiding any potential failure. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of pipes and tubes, exploring their definitions, properties, and applications.

What is a Pipe?

A pipe is a cylindrical hollow that is used to transport fluids, gases, and solids from one location to another. Pipes are usually made from materials such as iron, steel, PVC, and others.

What is a Tube?

A tube is a hollow, seamless component with a circular cross-section, and it has three dimensions: the outside diameter (O.D.), the inside diameter (I.D.) and the wall thickness (W.T.), which is specified in inches or fraction of an inch.

Tubes are typically used in applications where precision and accuracy are required, such as in fluid power systems and heat exchangers, and they are known for their ability to maintain flow in applications such as hydraulic systems.

The lack of seams in seamless tubes makes them ideal for use in high-pressure applications where leaks could be catastrophic. The manufacturing process of tubes usually involves drawing or extrusion, depending on the material used.

Tube vs Pipe

Pipe vs Tube Differences

Have you ever wondered why pipes and tubes are used in different applications even though they seem to serve the same purpose?

Have you been puzzled by the difference between pipes and tubes, and how to choose the right one for your project?

In the table the differences between pipes and tubes are summarized:

Feature	Pipes	Tubes
Definition	A cylindrical hollow that is used to transport fluids, gases, and solids.	A circular cross-section hollow used to convey liquids and gases.
Shape	Typically round, but can be square or rectangular.	Typically round.
Dimensions	Measured by their Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) and Schedule (wall thickness).	Measured by their outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness.
Manufacturing Process	Usually manufactured by welding or extrusion.	Usually manufactured by drawing or extrusion.
Applications	Used in plumbing, heating, and cooling systems, and for structural purposes.	Used in fluid power systems, heat exchangers, and high-pressure applications.
Material	Can be made from various materials such as iron, steel, PVC, and others.	Can be made from various materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and others.

Tube vs Pipe

Tubing vs Piping: Key Differences

Tubes and pipes are commonly used in various industrial applications, but there are key differences between the two.

When ordering a tube, the outside diameter and wall thickness are the determining factors, whereas piping is ordered using the Nominal Pipe Size standard, as well as the nominal diameter and schedule number or wall thickness.

Tubes have the advantage of being telescoped, and they are generally stronger and more durable than pipes.

While Tubes are always round, pipes can have a variety of shapes, including square and rectangular, in addition to round like a pipe.

For larger applications, pipes are often a better choice, but for small diameters, tubing is the preferred option.

In terms of use, pipes are more commonly used for transporting liquids and gasses, hence their capacity is critical to know.

On the other hand, tubes are often used in high pressure rating and critical applications.

Tube vs Pipe FAQS

Which is better for small diameters, tubes or pipes?

Tubes are better for small diameters.

Which is better for large applications, tubes or pipes?

Pipes are better for larger applications.

What is the difference in strength between tubes and pipes?

Tubes are generally stronger and more durable than pipes.

How are tubes and pipes ordered?

Tubes are ordered using the outside diameter and wall thickness, while pipes are ordered using the Nominal Pipe Size standard, as well as the nominal diameter and schedule number or wall thickness.