How is steel pipe used?
Steel pipes have various applications in structural engineering, transportation, and manufacturing industries. Pipe sizes are determined based on their outer diameter while the wall thickness determines the inner diameter.
Structural use
The thickness of the wall is dependent on the type of application and the forces the pipe must withstand. Pipes with thicker walls are required for some applications compared to others.
Many industrial fields and constructions commonly use steel pipes for structural purposes. In these industries, steel tubes are a commonly used building material.

Construction piles
They provide strength to the foundations of constructions in a process known as piling. The tube is driven deep into the earth before the foundation is laid, ensuring stability for tall buildings or constructions on unstable ground.

There are two primary types of pile foundations.
End bearing piles rest on a layer of particularly robust soil or rock, with the building’s weight transferred through the pile onto this sturdy layer.
Friction piles, on the other hand, transfer the building’s weight to the soil along the entire length of the pile, via friction. In this case, the full surface area of the pile helps to transfer the forces to the soil.

Scaffolding tubes.
Scaffold poles are produced by connecting steel tubes in a cage, providing access to high areas for construction workers.
Manufacturing use
Guard rails
Additionally, guardrails are made from steel tubes providing an attractive safety feature for stairs and balconies.

Bollards
Security bollards are
utilised to demarcate areas from vehicular traffic, safeguarding people, buildings, or infrastructure.

Bike racks
Bicycle racks are also available.
Many bike racks used in commercial settings are made by bending steel tubes. The strength and durability of the steel material make it a secure option against theft.

Transport use
The primary application of steel pipes is for the transportation of goods due to its suitability for long-term installations. Additionally, steel pipes can be buried underground because of its robustness and resistance to corrosion.

Pipes used for low pressure applications do not necessitate high strength since they undergo minimal stress exposure. Thinner wall thickness enables cheaper production. For more specialized applications, like pipes in the oil and gas sector, stringent specifications are required. The dangerous nature of the product being transported and the potential for increased pressure on the line require high strength and, therefore, greater wall thickness. This usually results in a higher cost. Quality control is crucial for these applications.