Seamless steel pipe is a round pipe that is hollow inside and has no seams, joints or welds on the outside. This type of pipe is usually made of one type of steel, most commonly carbon or alloy steel. It can also be crafted from Stainless Steel Ingots. Manufactured using hot-rolled, cold-rolled or cold-drawn processes, as previously described, the result is a smooth, tough appearance. Seamless steel pipe is often considered the best alternative to things like welded pipe because it can withstand a greater degree of working pressure and is more resistant to damage and corrosion. However, it is more expensive than welded pipe, but for some applications the extra price is worth it.
Application of seamless steel pipe
Seamless steel pipes are versatile and can be used for many different purposes. Below are some of the most common applications.
• Bearing piles
When used as load-bearing piles, seamless steel pipe is a very efficient way of carrying and supporting heavy structural loads. When seamless steel pipes are used as load-bearing piles, they can be filled with concrete to increase their strength.
• Casing
During the drilling construction process, permanent or temporary casing is required, and seamless steel pipes can come in handy. The seamless steel pipe can support the hole during construction, and concrete and cages are applied at the same time.
• Combination wall
Seamless steel pipe can be used to create composite walls, which are retaining wall structures. Seamless steel pipes are combined with steel sheet piles to be used as main piles in composite wall construction. Pipes support most of the load, while sheet piles help transfer the load to the soil and piles. The combination wall design eliminates the transmission of shear forces in the interlocks of the system.
• Structural Sections
When used for structural profiles, seamless steel pipe is a good choice as it provides equal bending strength in all directions, which makes it resistant to buckling. Its buckling resistance allows it to handle significantly heavier loads at its extra-long length. The use of seamless steel pipes as structural profiles is particularly useful for large open structures and cofferdams.
• Underground facilities
Jacking drilled seamless steel pipe is an excellent choice for auxiliary installation of underground facilities. When used in this manner, a hydraulic jack is usually used to drive a length of steel pipe between excavations. The next length of pipe is then spliced to the first and the pipe cleared to make room for a safe and efficient utility installation. When used in this way for underground utilities, damage to nearby areas, especially roads and businesses, can be minimized.
These are just some of the major applications where seamless steel tubes are useful. Overall, seamless steel pipe is a practical choice for those who need versatility, durability, and strength, especially when heavy loads are involved.