Structural steel products form the foundation of various sectors, including construction, automotive, and infrastructure development. Its popularity stems from its strength, durability, and versatility. Structural steel often leads to cost-efficient projects with high structural integrity, making it a sought-after material.

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Material Grade

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is primarily composed of iron and carbon and is a popular choice for structural applications due to its high strength and affordability.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: High tensile strength, widely available, and generally cheaper than other types.

Cons: Less resistant to corrosion and might need additional surface treatments.

Common Use Cases: Used in building frames, car bodies, and basic structural applications.

Alloy Steel

Alloy steel contains additional elements like chromium, molybdenum, or nickel that improve its mechanical properties.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Improved strength, hardness, and wear resistance compared to carbon steel.

Cons: Generally more expensive and may be over-engineered for simple projects.

Common Use Cases: Suitable for high-stress applications like bridges, power generation equipment, and advanced machinery.

Stainless Steel

This type of steel contains chromium, giving it excellent corrosion resistance.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: High corrosion resistance, aesthetic appeal, and excellent for sanitary applications.

Cons: More expensive than carbon steel and generally less strong.

Common Use Cases: Employed in chemical plants, food processing units, and architectural features.

Material Grade Comparison

Decision Parameters: When selecting a material grade, one should assess the structural needs, environmental conditions, and budget constraints of the Project.

Performance Indicators: Factors like tensile strength, yield strength, and flexibility can be performance indicators for selecting a suitable material grade.

Expert Tips: Consulting with material scientists or structural engineers can provide valuable insights into the most appropriate material for a specific application.

Quality Certification and Standards

ASTM Standards

American Society for Testing and Materials, or ASTM, sets industry-wide standards for materials, including structural steel. These standards address chemical composition, mechanical properties, and manufacturing processes.

Complying with ASTM standards ensures that the steel meets the requirements for quality and safety. Compliance is often a prerequisite for projects, especially in regulated industries like construction and aerospace.

ISO Certification

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) provides recognized certifications for various products and materials, including steel.

ISO certification indicates that the steel has met international quality benchmarks, making it suitable for projects that span different countries or must follow global standards.

Custom Standards

Custom standards might be developed for specialized projects or applications with unique requirements not covered by existing standards. Military projects, specialized research facilities, or unique architectural designs may require custom standards.

Regional and National Standards

Countries or regions may have their standards, which could be adaptations of international standards or independently developed guidelines. Examples are European EN standards and Japanese JIS standards.

Local or national standards may be mandatory for projects within specific jurisdictions, and checking for Compliance when sourcing structural steel is advisable.

Documentation and Verification

Often accompanies the product to certify that it meets the claimed standards. Independent entities may be hired to verify that the structural steel complies with all required standards.

Legal Implications

Failure to comply with quality certifications and standards can lead to legal consequences, including fines and project delays. Contracts often specify the quality standards to be met, and not complying with these could be a breach of contract.

Mechanical Properties

Tensile Strength

Tensile strength indicates how well a material can resist being pulled apart. It is an important factor in applications where materials will undergo tensile pressures. Usually measured in megapascals (MPa) or pounds per square inch (psi). For example, tensile strength is a key parameter in skyscraper construction, where steel has to support huge vertical loads.

Yield Strength

Yield strength defines the maximum stress that can be applied to the steel before it deforms permanently. In construction, this is especially important for ensuring structural integrity. It’s usually measured in megapascals (MPa) or pounds per square inch (psi). Bridges, for instance, require steel with high yield strength to endure dynamic loads like heavy traffic and wind forces without deforming.

Hardness

Hardness measures the resistance to deformation and is usually quantified using scales like the Rockwell or Brinell hardness scales. A higher hardness often indicates better wear resistance, which can be advantageous in applications like machinery components. In industrial machinery, harder steel can provide a longer lifespan for components like gears or shafts.

Ductility

Ductility describes how much a material can deform under tensile stress before breaking. Higher ductility can absorb more energy during deformation, making it valuable in earthquake-prone regions. Buildings in seismic zones often use steel with higher ductility to withstand the forces of an earthquake.

Fatigue Strength

Fatigue strength is the maximum stress a material can endure for several cycles without breaking. This property is particularly relevant in structures that experience repeated loading and unloading, like bridges or aircraft. For example, the steel used in aircraft landing gears needs high fatigue strength to endure repeated landings.

Weldability

Weldability refers to how well the material can be joined through welding without compromising its properties. Poor weldability can introduce weak points in the structure, compromising its integrity. High weldability can simplify construction and improve final quality in large projects where pieces are often welded on-site.

Dimensional Tolerances

Thickness

The thickness of structural steel directly affects its ability to withstand loads and stresses. Insufficient thickness can result in structural failure or a shorter material lifespan. Industry standards often define a narrow range of acceptable thicknesses. Going beyond these tolerances can compromise the structural integrity. Regular inspections using calipers or ultrasonic thickness gauges can help ensure the material falls within acceptable tolerances.

Length and Width

Exact dimensions in length and width are often necessary in construction planning, where every inch can matter. Any changes can affect everything from fit to the ability to make secure connections. Just like thickness, the length and width of structural steel are regulated by industry standards. Not following these can result in ill-fitting components, leading to project delays. Ruler tapes, laser distance measurers, and even traditional yardsticks can be used depending on the required level of accuracy.

Weight

The weight of the structural steel plays a big role in transportation costs. Exceeding weight tolerances might require specialized transportation methods, which can be costly. Weight directly impacts the ease of assembly. Heavier pieces might need more advanced lifting equipment or labor, increasing the project’s complexity and cost. Weighing scales with high precision are generally used to ensure the material falls within the specified weight tolerances.

Surface Treatment and Coatings

Galvanization

Benefits

Corrosion Resistance: Galvanized steel is more corrosion-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor structures.

Longevity: The coating can extend the life of the steel, resulting in lower maintenance costs over time.

Ease of Use: Galvanized steel typically doesn’t require additional painting or treatments, reducing labor costs.

Drawbacks

Cost: The process can be expensive, especially for large-scale projects.

Limited Bonding: Paints and adhesives may not apply well to galvanized surfaces.

Environmental Concerns: Chemicals like zinc can make the galvanizing process less environmentally friendly.

Painting

Types

Epoxy Paints: They are known for their durability and chemical resistance and are commonly used in industrial settings.

Polyurethane Paints: Offer excellent weather resistance and are often used for outdoor structures.

Acrylic Paints: Provide a good balance between cost and performance, suitable for less demanding applications.

Uses

Aesthetic Purposes: Painting allows for a wide range of colors and finishes.

Additional Protection: Some types of paint can offer extra resistance to corrosion or chemical damage.

Identification: Different colors are used to identify pipes or structural elements for safety or organizational purposes.

Oxide Layers

When to Use

Natural Oxidation: In some environments, allowing steel to oxidize naturally creates a protective layer that can be both functional and aesthetically appealing.

High-Temperature Conditions: Oxide layers can resist oxidation at elevated temperatures, making them suitable for certain industrial applications.

Architectural Appeal: The rusted appearance of oxidized steel can be desirable in specific architectural or design contexts.

Availability and Lead Time

Stock Products

Pros

Quick Availability: Stock products are typically ready for immediate shipment, reducing lead time.

Lower Costs: Because they are mass-produced, stock products often come at a lower price point.

Ease of Replacement: If additional pieces are required, it’s generally easier to quickly source more of the same item.

Cons

Limited Customization: Stock products may not meet specialized requirements for unique projects.

Overstock Risks: You might need to purchase more material than needed if the products are only available in standard bulk quantities.

Custom Orders

Timeline

Initial Planning: Custom orders require an initial planning and design phase, adding to lead time.

Production Time: Depending on the complexity, this could range from weeks to months.

Quality Checks: Custom orders often undergo more rigorous quality control, extending lead times.

Costs

Design and Planning Fees: Customization requires specialized planning, which can be costly.

Production Costs: Small-batch production is typically more expensive per unit.

Quality Control Costs: Rigorous testing may incur additional expenses.

Vendor Reliability

Past Performance: A track record of on-time deliveries can indicate a reliable vendor.

Communication: Prompt and clear communication throughout the order process can be a good sign.

Financial Stability: A vendor’s financial standing indicates its ability to fulfill orders consistently.

Third-Party Audits: Some may opt for external audits or checks to ensure vendor reliability.

Environmental Factors

Corrosion Resistance

Climate and Location

Coastal Areas: Saltwater can accelerate the corrosion process, requiring materials with higher corrosion resistance.

High Humidity: Moist environments also increase corrosion risk and may necessitate special coatings or treatments.

Industrial Zones: The presence of chemicals or pollutants in the air can affect the durability of structural steel, requiring enhanced corrosion resistance.

Recyclability

Sustainability Concerns

Eco-Friendly: Steel is highly recyclable, reducing the overall carbon footprint of a construction project.

LEED Certification: Using recycled steel can contribute to LEED certification for green building.

Resource Conservation: Opting for recyclable materials can reduce the demand for new resources, which is beneficial from a sustainability standpoint.

Financial Considerations

Pricing

Supply and Demand: Changes can influence steel prices.

Raw Material Costs: The cost of iron ore and other raw materials can impact the price of steel.

Economic Indicators: Macroeconomic factors like inflation and interest rates can also affect pricing.

Bulk Discounts

Volume Requirements: Some suppliers offer discounts based on volume. Make sure to inquire about thresholds for these discounts.

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Strategic Sourcing: Collaborate with other departments or organizations to consolidate purchases and use volume-based discounts.

Timing: Off-season or end-of-quarter periods might offer additional opportunities for discounts due to inventory clearance.

Hidden Costs

Freight Costs: The price of steel often does not include shipping costs, which can greatly increase the overall expenditure.

Import Taxes and Duties: If sourcing from another country, be aware of import taxes or customs duties.

Storage Fees: If immediate use is unplanned, storage costs should be factored into the overall financial planning.

Supplier Reputation

Customer Reviews

Diverse Sources: Obtain reviews from various platforms, trade journals, and forums for a well-rounded perspective.

Detail-Oriented Feedback: Focus on reviews that provide specific insights into the steel’s quality and customer service.

Recency: Prioritize recent reviews as they more accurately reflect the current state of the supplier’s operations.

Industry Experience

Track Record: A supplier with a long history in the industry is often more reliable and has established quality control procedures.

Certifications: Look for industry-relevant certifications that indicate a commitment to quality.

Referrals: Companies with extensive experience often come recommended by other industry professionals.

Transparency

Open Dialogue: A reputable supplier should be willing to answer any questions and address concerns promptly.

Documentation: The availability of Compliance certificates, test reports, and other data is a sign of a transparent and reliable supplier.

Accountability: Transparent suppliers are more likely to take responsibility for any issues and offer solutions.

Successful Structural Steel Product Purchase

Comprehensive Research: A thorough understanding of material grade, dimensional tolerances, and surface treatments is critical.

Budgeting and Financial Planning: To avoid budget overruns, factor in all potential costs, including hidden fees like transportation or storage.

Environmental Responsibility: Choose materials that align with sustainability goals whenever possible.

Vendor Due Diligence: Take the time to assess the reliability and reputation of your supplier.

Consult Industry Experts: Consulting with engineers or material scientists can offer invaluable insights for complex projects.

Use Reputable Sourcing Platforms: Websites and trade journals often list verified suppliers and provide user reviews.

Project Management Software: Utilizing specialized software can help track expenses, timelines, and order statuses for better project management.

You can make a well-informed decision for your structural steel purchase by systematically assessing factors like material properties, costs, supplier reputation, and environmental considerations. The more you know, the better you can negotiate and make choices that align with your project goals and budget. A multi-pronged approach that considers all these aspects is the key to successfully acquiring structural steel products.

FAQ: Factors to Consider When Buying Structural Steel Products

How Do I Determine the Steel Grade Best Suited for My Project?

Consider your Project’s specific load-bearing requirements, environmental conditions, and overall design. Consulting with a structural engineer is highly advisable for tailored guidance.

What are Dimensional Tolerances, and Why Are They Important?

Dimensional tolerances refer to the allowable variations in dimensions like thickness, length, and weight. These variations can impact structural integrity, project planning, and costs.

Are Bulk Discounts Always More Economical?

Not necessarily. While bulk discounts can offer cost benefits, they may also result in overstock or storage costs. Evaluate your Project’s precise needs before opting for bulk purchases.

How Can I Be Sure a Supplier is Reliable?

Look for customer reviews, check for industry certifications, and assess the supplier’s transparency and communication. You can also request references from the supplier for additional assurance.

What Should I Consider for Environmental Sustainability?

 Opt for corrosion-resistant steel if the project environment requires it, and consider using recyclable steel for sustainability.

Are there Hidden Costs I Should Be Aware of?

Yes, be sure to account for costs like transportation, import taxes, and storage fees, as they can significantly add to your Project’s budget.

How to Select the Right Pipe Material for Fluid Handling Operations

At manufacturing plants and other industrial locations, many parts are involved in the success of the entire operation. One of those components is the fluid handling system throughout the building — the piping that runs along the walls, ceiling and potentially underground to provide the facility with water, oil and other fluids that are necessary to complete certain processes.

Like any system, the pipe and fittings involved in your fluid handling operations will eventually need to be replaced. If you’re building a new facility, you get to start from scratch and choose the best piping material for your needs. Whether you’re replacing your fluid handling system or installing one at a brand-new building, there are several factors you should consider before starting, as well as multiple pipe material options to choose from.

When implementing or constructing a fluid handling system in your plant or warehouse, you will have to make several decisions based on your industry, handled materials and objective. One of the most important decisions you will make during this process is the type of pipe material you need to transport your liquids, gases, chemicals and other fluids. This is not a decision to make lightly — the wrong pipe material could jeopardize the quality of your product, as well as the safety of you and your employees.

Here are seven factors to consider when choosing the best pipe material for your fluid handling system.

8 Elements to Consider When Selecting Pipe Material

The material of the pipes in your fluid handling system has a direct impact on the overall success of the system, as well as your facility’s overall mission or goal. It’s critical to weigh all your options and account for the multiple factors that will affect the oil and water pipe material selection process. Here are eight things to consider before you choose your fluid handling pipe material.

1. Material Being Transported

What type of liquid are your pipes transporting? More specifically, is the liquid corrosive or non-corrosive? Corrosive liquids include substances such as crude oil, ammonia, seawater and other acidic liquids that have a heavy chemical makeup. These liquids require a corrosion-resistant pipe material such as a plastic CPVC pipe or lined pipe. Since most liquids are at least slightly corrosive, you will need a corrosion-resistant material for the pipes that will transport it. Meanwhile, non-corrosive fluids or gases like lube oil, air and nitrogen are safe to transport via carbon steel or metal pipelining.

The type of liquid or gas your pipe system transports plays a significant role in choosing fluid handling pipe material. Some pipe materials are better suited for non-corrosive liquids, like oils or standard wastewater. More corrosive liquids, like acid or peroxide, require a pipe with an interior that can hold up to the abrasiveness of these corrosive materials. Corrosive materials are common in many industrial cleaning solutions, as well as in chemical manufacturing and handling. Remember, despite a plastic or metal pipe material’s durability and corrosion resistance, chemicals, acids and saltwater are much more abrasive than standard water or oil. Always keep the liquid you are transporting in mind when selecting a pipe material.

Take a look at how the following popular pipe and pipe lining materials stand up to corrosion:

• Stainless steel: It’s called “stainless” steel for a reason — stainless steel does not rust or corrode as quickly or easily as other materials. It naturally resists most corrosion because it consists of several different alloys, all of which help form a protective oxide layer on the surface. This natural layer is tough and durable. For this reason, it is an ideal water pipe material selection that is also suitable for oils and some chemicals.
• Aluminum alloy: Aluminum does not rust, which is useful when you need your transported liquid to remain pure and uncontaminated. It can handle exposure to many gases, oils and liquids without deteriorating. However, aluminum does corrode over time, especially in saltwater or sulfuric applications.
• Cast iron: Cast iron is easy to find and is uniquely durable against many external sources of corrosion, like plant growth and soil, because it is so thick. Cast iron can withstand water and saltwater for short periods, so it could be suitable for short-term projects. However, it does corrode and rust after prolonged water exposure.
• Fluoropolymer (PTFE) lining: PTFE pipe lining is non-reactive and very resistant against corrosive chemicals. It is one of the most universally applicable pipe lining materials, and thanks to its durability and zero-risk of product contamination, it is the perfect acid, water, chemical and oil pipe material selection.
• PVDF Kynar® lining: PVDF pipe lining is very durable and strong, and is one of the most abrasion-resistance materials on the market. Manufacturing facilities or plants that handle high-strength acids, chemicals, saltwater and nuclear materials find success with PVDF lining. It also resists corrosion from natural sunlight and weathering.
• Galvanized steel: For short-term saltwater projects, galvanized steel is a suitable pipe material, as it does not rust. However, it will corrode after prolonged exposure to both salt and water. Also worth noting is that galvanized steel often corrodes from the inside out, so it may be challenging to detect.
• Copper: Copper is widely used due to its ready availability and aesthetic appeal. It is not completely immune to corrosion, but it is more corrosion resistant than many other materials, such as galvanized steel. Copper is most prone to corrosion in fresh and saltwater, as well as particularly harsh chemicals and acids.
• Resistoflex ATL PTFE lining: ATL PTFE pipe lining contains specially formulated resins that make it very strong and durable during prolonged exposure to saltwater and aggressive chemicals. It is often used in paper processing and power generation plants, as well as in the service industry.
• Carbon steel:  Although carbon steel is ideal for high-temperature fluids, it does corrode easily under high levels of exposure to moisture, chemicals and acids.
• Polypropylene (PP) lining: PP pipe lining is a good high-temperature pipe material as it performs very well in temperatures as hot as 225 degrees, as well as saltwater and both basic and acidic applications. However, it does not withstand solvents, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or excessively low temperatures. PP lining is often used in water treatment facilities, chemical processing plants, power generation facilities and food and beverage manufacturing.

2. Temperature of Liquid Passing Through

The next thing to consider is the temperature of the liquid in your fluid handling system. If you’re transporting high-temperature liquids, you’ll need to be sure your system consists of high-temperature pipe materials. Certain types of plastic piping may not be ideal for handling high temperatures, while others may be designed to handle fluids no matter how hot they are. Metal pipe materials are typically wise choices for high-temperature liquids, although some types may become too hot to the touch.

If you are handling extremely high or low-temperature fluid — including cryogenic liquids— make sur

e your pipe consists of material intended for extreme temperatures. Otherwise, you risk damaging or corroding your pipes and contaminating the liquids inside of them. In some cases, extreme temperatures can break your piping entirely, resulting in expensive repairs, damaged product and hazardous workplace conditions. Metal pipe material is usually suitable for extremely hot liquids, although you and your employees should exercise caution when working with them. Depending on the temperature, aluminum is often used to transport cryogenic liquids.

Your piping material must support these temperatures as well as maintain them throughout the liquid transfer process. In many applications — including laboratories, food processing, medical facilities and plants that work with hazardous chemicals — precise temperatures are required for all liquids and vapors used.

Some pipe materials that can be suitable for high temperatures include carbon steel, as well as PTFE, PVDF, ATL PTFE and PP pipe linings. For extremely low temperatures, copper, some aluminum alloys and high-alloy austenitic stainless steel are least likely to become brittle and break.

3. The Pressure of the Liquid Handling Process

What is the pressure of the fluids your system is handling? If the pressure of these service fluids is very high, you will need piping material that is either high-strength, higher thickness or designed to resist high-pressure fluids. The average pressure that most manufacturing facilities’ piping must be able to handle is around 150 pounds per square inch gauge (psig). If your facility is working with liquids of higher pressures than this, you may have to request a piping material that is specially designed to handle high-pressure fluids.

Various liquids and gases create different pressures inside of your fluid handling pipes. For example, cryogenic fluids are known for creating very high-pressure environments during the transfer process. Many external factors can impact this pressure, too, including the temperature and elevation of your piping.

Some liquids and gases that might require pressure-specific pipe materials include:

• Ammonia
• Chlorine
• Propane
• Carbon dioxide
• Nitrous oxide
• Acetylene
• Butane
• Hydrogen
• Helium
• Neon
• Nitrogen
• Concentrated oxygen

Make sure you choose a pipe material that is rated for high-pressure or low-pressure substances and conditions. If you use a high-pressure liquid or gas in a pipe that is not suited for high-pressure handling, you risk leaks, pipe bursts, flooding, fire, explosion and injury to property and personnel.

Never assume your fluid handling system is adequate for high-pressure substances. Always ask your pipe provider if your fluid handling system is designed to handle high-pressure fluids and vapors before use.

4. Service Life of the Fluid Handling System

You need reliable and durable piping, but how long do you need your fluid handling system to last? A major component of effective piping design and material selection is asking how long you expect your fluid handling system to last. If you know you’ll likely have to replace the system in five to 10 years due to another reason, such as relocation, you don’t need to invest in a very long-lasting piping material. This may also affect how much money you’re willing to spend on the system, which will, in turn, impact the type of material you should choose.

If, on the other hand, you expect this system to last for 10 or more years, you should invest in the most durable type of piping material.

For example, temporary worksites or processing plants that do not typically deal in fluid handling may not need as intricate or durable a system as a permanent plant that transfers fluids daily. You should also factor in how often your business will use your fluid handling system. Of course, there are some conditions — such as extremely corrosive chemicals, hazardous materials or fluids that need temperature regulation — that will require certain pipe materials, regardless of the desired service life of your system. If no special circumstances apply to your business, use this information to help you gauge the amount you should invest in your pipes, as well as that type and quality of material used.

5. Ease of Maintenance

Just like flooring, countertops and other solid surfaces, certain types of piping material are easier to clean than others. Ask yourself how often you can clean your fluid handling system. Be realistic about the frequency, as it is can become a very time-consuming task depending on the size and intricacy of your system. If you won’t be able to clean it very often, having a low-maintenance piping material should be a priority for your facility.

Make sure the material you choose for your fluid handling pipes is maintainable under your current circumstances. There are three main types of maintenance that all fluid handling systems should consider:

• Preventive maintenance: Preventive maintenance is necessary for all parts of your fluid handling system, and should be performed at regularly scheduled intervals based on the approximate cost of downtime, potential risks of system failure, expected time between part repairs and availability of backup equipment if necessary.
• Routine cleaning maintenance: Routine pipe cleaning maintenance will help prevent internal and external product build-up, which can corrode your system and contaminate transferred fluids.
• Emergency maintenance: Even with attentive preventive maintenance and highly durable products, you will likely require emergency or special repairs at least once in your fluid handling system’s life. Address concerns as they arise to reduce emergency maintenance visits.

During each of these maintenance scenarios, your pipes must be accessible. Always have a professional technician install your fluid handling system. Professional system technicians are trained to consider your system as a whole, rather than focus on singular parts or pieces of equipment. They will make sure your pipes are large enough for your space and business needs, but not oversized. Oversized pipe systems result in unnecessary maintenance and take up a lot of otherwise usable space.

If your business does not have the time, available workforce or budget for regular and frequent maintenance, choosing a low-maintenance pipe material should be your top priority.

6. Exposure to External Elements

External elements exist indoors and outdoors. Indoors, external corrosion and other issues can arise from corrosive fumes in the air, humid conditions and mold. Outside poses several threats for external corrosion and damage, including the salt in seawater, inclement weather, microorganisms, plant overgrowth and more.

If any part of your fluid handling system is exposed outdoors, you need piping material that can withstand environmental elements. External elements that could lead to the deterioration or corrosion of your fluid handling piping include UV light, corrosive soil, precipitation and other atmospheric conditions.

Examples of external elements to be cautious of include the following:

• Corrosive fumes or vapors in the air from other work stations or materials
• Extreme or fluctuating temperatures, both indoors and outdoors
• Mold and mildew growth
• Salt from seawater
• Inclement weather, including rainfall, snow, lightning and hail
• Micro- and non-microorganisms that can burrow or corrode
• Plant, root and moss growth on outdoor piping
• Exposure to UV rays from the sun
• Corrosive and damp soil

7. Valve and Fitting Sizes

Certain piping materials will only have a few valve and fitting sizes to choose from, so you may need to eliminate some options based on this factor. Some of the valve and fitting types you can choose from include:

• Butterfly valves
• Ball valves
• Check valves
• Diaphragm valves
• Rupture pin safety valves
• Knife gate valves
• Solenoid valves
• Slurry valves
• Severe service valves
• Sanitary valves

The types of valve and fittings you choose will depend upon the types of connections you’ll need to make from pipe to pipe, as well as to connect the pipes to other features of the fluid handling system.

8. The Cost of the Material

Cost is a significant factor in any business decision. As you consider different pipe materials, keep in mind the cost of:

• The initial investment in all required parts, including the pipes, valves and pipe fittings
• Whether your chosen material is readily available or needs to be imported
• Routine and emergency maintenance appointments
• Pipe lining materials, if applicable

As with any expense, always consider the return on investment when comparing different costs. For example, if a pipe material is best suited for your industry due to its thermal regulation and durability, but it is more expensive, keep in mind the potential loss you might face if choosing a cheaper, less viable option. For many industries, not investing in the right pipe materials can lead to much more costly issues down the road. Always keep your industry’s non-negotiable needs in mind when examining costs.

Types of Piping Material Available

Now that you know what factors will affect the piping material you should choose, let’s talk about six of the most popular piping materials, as well as the conditions that each of them would work best for.

1. Cast Iron

Cast iron was one of the earliest materials used for piping, and it’s most commonly found in underground applications. Piping that carries materials like water, gas and sewage underground must be incredibly durable, pressure-resistant and long-lasting since these pipes must last for several decades without having to be replaced. Soil pipes are also commonly made using cast iron due to its excellent corrosion-resisting properties. Cast iron pipes are more popular in apartment buildings rather than private dwellings due to its fire resistance and noise-dampening qualities.

If you need underground piping at your facility that will last as long as possible, cast iron may be the best material for your fluid handling system.

2. Steel and Steel Alloys

Carbon steel pipes and steel alloys are created using different manufacturing methods to provide multiple piping material options all made from steel. Steel is a desirable piping material because of its thickness and ability to contain highly pressurized fluids. Two common types of steel piping materials for manufacturing facilities are:

• Carbon steel pipes: Carbon steel pipes are available in several different grades depending on the amount of carbon the pipe contains. This type of steel piping is more subject to corrosion than other varieties, making it ideal for indoor systems transporting non-corrosive materials.
• Galvanized steel: The second option for steel piping is galvanized steel, which is better equipped to handle corrosive fluids, as well as high-temperature materials. However, it is not as ideal for high-pressure substances, as it is rated only for pressures of up to 250 psi.

3. Nonferrous

The category of nonferrous pipe materials refers to any piping material that is a metal other than steel. Popular options for nonferrous metals include:

• Brass: Brass piping is popular for the transportation of corrosive materials, and the most common type is red brass.
• Aluminum: Several varieties of aluminum piping exist based on the type and amount of alloy added to the aluminum. The level of aluminum pipe you choose will be dependent on whether you’re transporting highly corrosive or high-pressure materials.
• Copper: Copper piping is standard for both commercial and residential water applications, such as plumbing and other waterlines. You can choose between several types of copper piping based on thickness.
• Copper-nickel: Copper-nickel piping is most commonly used in marine and offshore applications for its excellent ability to transport seawater effectively and with minimal corrosion. As a durable pipe material option, copper-nickel can also handle materials of high temperatures.

4. Concrete

The most typical application for concrete pipes is in large-scale engineering projects such as water resource management and stormwater control. Depending on the diameter of the pipe, concrete pipes are typically reinforced with another layer or durable wire to allow it to maintain its strength underground. Concrete pipes used for civil purposes must pass several destructive tests to ensure they can withstand any potentially disastrous occurrences.

These pipes must also be regularly maintained, as dirt and debris can easily stick to the insides of concrete pipes and cause a backup. Depending on the type of material the pipes are carrying, a sewage or stormwater backup could be very hazardous to the surrounding areas. Most manufacturing facilities would not benefit from using concrete piping for their fluid handling systems.

5. Plastic

Plastic pipes are an option you may seriously consider for your facility’s fluid handling system. Options for plastic pipes include:

• PVC: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes are the most widely used type of plastic piping, ideal for both structural and electrical applications.
• Polypropylene: Polypropylene pipes are most effective and appropriate for transporting chemical waste and other highly corrosive materials.
• Polyethylene: Polyethylene is a flexible but strong material that is best for piping in irrigation, sprinkler and other water-related applications.
• PEX: PEX pipes are essentially polyethylene pipes that have been processed to be both stronger and more resistant to hot and cold temperature changes. This material is becoming a significant alternative to traditional copper pipes.
• ABS: You’ll find ABS pipes in sewer, waste, drain and vent applications.

6. Lined Pipe

We saved the best type of pipe for most industrial and manufacturing systems for last — lined pipe and fittings are recommended for fluid handling systems in most facilities. Plastic-lined steel pipe is essentially the “best of both worlds,” combining the corrosion-resisting qualities of plastic with the durability of metal materials. You can choose which type of plastic material you want your steel pipes to be lined with. Popular choices for plastic-lined pipe and fittings include:

• Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF): When you’re transporting high-strength acids and other corrosive liquids, opting for PVDF-lined pipe and fittings is a durable choice. These pipes are designed to withstand the corrosive properties of fluids involved with chemical processing and electronics manufacturing.
• Fluoropolymer (PTFE): PTFE-lined pipe and fittings are known for their ability to transport fluids at high temperatures and pressures. Its strength and corrosion-resistance make it a popular piping material for many industrial applications.
• Polypropylene (PP): PP-lined pipe is the best choice for handling basic fluids with low chemical makeup and low to no corrosive qualities. It’s the most economical option for small-scale operations and transporting liquids at an average temperature.

Benefits of Adding Thermoplastic-Lined Pipe to Your Operation

For most standard manufacturing facilities and other industrial applications, there are several benefits of plastic-lined pipe and fittings. Some of the most notable advantages of this type of pipe material include:

• Affordability: By combining the excellent resistance properties of plastic lining to the low cost of steel and other metallic materials, thermoplastic-lined pipe and fittings are one of the most affordable piping options for many manufacturing facilities.
• Customization: By adjusting the amount of each material used, you can customize the properties of your lined pipe while still benefiting from each material’s most desirable characteristics.
• Safety: Plastic-lined pipes lead to improved product quality thanks to the lack of contamination from the liquid touching metallic materials. They are also less likely to result in the fouling of materials and the costly downtime that comes along with the cleanup and repair process.
• Lower maintenance: Thermoplastic-lined pipe is resistant to corrosion and chemicals, and it also does not require frequent maintenance or cleaning.
• Simple installation: When installation technicians have been trained properly, lined pipe installation is much simpler, faster and affordable than installing metal pipes.

Which Pipe Material Is Best for Fluid Handling Operations?

To find the best pipe material for fluid handling operations, you must consider several factors about your facility and your fluid handling system. Every manufacturing facility is unique and requires pipe material and fittings for differing applications. When it comes time for you to replace your fluid handling system, be sure to consider each choice carefully and not just do what everyone else may be doing. Just because metal pipe liners work for one facility, for example, does not mean they are also the best choice for yours.

That being said, lined pipe material is often the best solution for most average-sized manufacturing facilities, as it combines the best features of the two most popular small-scale choices — plastic and metal.

Get Custom Pipe and Fittings From SEMCOR

Once you’ve decided which pipe material and fittings might be best for your operation, contact the experts at SEMCOR to start the process of getting them into your building or buildings. We offer the best products for custom fluid handling, including pipe and fittings, valves, hoses and other custom solutions. Plus, all our products are designed with durability in mind, minimizing the need for future maintenance or an early replacement. We can also provide assistance in choosing the right materials based on your facility’s system and needs.

SEMCOR offers a wide range of fluid handling solutions and customizations, including:

• Pipe and pipe fitting fabrications: SEMCOR specializes in rigid piping designed to withstand high-temperature and corrosive environments. We also provide high-quality and standard plastic pipe linings and fittings, including PTFE, ATL PTFE, PVDF and PP lining. If you require custom lining and fabrications, SEMCOR is here to help.
• Hose and valve modifications: SEMCOR offers hoses made of PTFE, metal, rubber and plastic. We also provide PTFE hose crimp fittings, rubber hose clamping fittings and metal hose welding fittings, so each product can be modified to meet your exact specifications. Our valves, actuators and controls come from top industry suppliers and are made of strong, corrosion-resistant plastics so they can withstand the most abrasive fluid transfer. Our design and fabrication options also allow us to create customized valves, actuators and control solutions for any industrial application.
• Custom expansion joints: SEMCOR provides customizable metal and rubber expansion joints from top industry brands like Resistoflex and Hose Master.

Since , SEMCOR has remained committed to answering your questions and delivering nothing but top quality fabrications for your business. To learn more about SEMCOR fluid handling products and services, or to request a quote, reach out to us online or at (314) 300-.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Carbon Steel Pipe. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.