Introduction to Carbon Steel
Carbon Steel is a type of basic steel composed of iron and carbon. Other compounds in trace or unmeasured levels may be present. Carbon Steel Pipes are classed according to the amount of carbon mixed in with the iron. Low-to-medium carbon steel has less than 0.3 percent carbon, whereas high carbon steel contains up to 2%. Carbon steel is well-known for its strength and resistance to extremely high temperatures.
Introduction to Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel is made by combining an alloy with chromium. While basic carbon steel may include up to 2% carbon, stainless steel has at least 10% chromium. Other components, including carbon steel, may be present in unmeasured levels in stainless steel. The most important feature of a Stainless Steel Pipe is that it does not rust or corrode. Steel has the unusual virtue of resisting corrosion. Steel is largely comprised of iron, and iron rusts rapidly.
Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel?
Many factories, engineers, designers, and other industry personnel are confronted with this dilemma at some point. Stainless and carbon steel pipes are both solid alternatives for a range of applications, so deciding which is best may be difficult. You should be able to better identify which will suit your needs if you first understand what steel is and how it is utilized.
Will your Pipes be subjected to high temperatures?
Carbon Steel Pipes are recognized for their ability to endure high temperatures, making them ideal for applications such as steam pipes. However, if you are working with severely cold temperatures, such as transferring cryogenic liquids, you will need a different quality of pipe.
Will your Pipe’s appearance matter?
Knowing the finish of these steels will be useful if your pipes will be visible and look is important to you. Stainless steel generally has a gleam and is resistant to weather and other factors. Carbon steel has a darker appearance and a matte texture. If exposed, this may begin to rust and deteriorate in appearance.
Thankfully, both stainless steel and carbon steel are quite inexpensive. Carbon steel pipe is generally listed as the least expensive piping steel, although stainless steel pipe is not far behind. This is wonderful news since it allows you to select the best material for the job without having to make substantial pricing considerations.
Applications of Carbon Steel and Stainless Steel Pipe
- Carbon Steel Pipe is used for both above- and below-ground liquid, gas, and steam services. It should not be used in corrosive services; however, it can be used in caustic services.
- Stainless Steel Pipes are used in instrumentation, heat exchangers, fluid piping, evaporators, digesters, automobiles, surface condensers, oil and gas industry, nuclear power industry, LP/HP heaters, and many more.
