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The two common types of tubing are welded and seamless. These two types of tubing can be found in a variety of applications and industries. Detroit Nipple Works produces both of these tubings. However, you might be wondering what the difference between the two is. So, let’s go over the differences between these types of tubes and their applications.
Welded tubing is produced by rolling sheets of stainless steel into a tube shape. After rolling the sheets, the tube’s seam goes through longitudinal welding. The welding process can be done with either a hot or cold forming process. While both processes make a durable and strong tube, the cold process tends to lead to a smoother finish.
Although welded tubes have impurities, it has tighter tolerances and thinner walls for large-diameter application. Because the tubing process is simplified, welded tubing is affordable and readily available in a variety of lengths. These tubes are seen in industries such as pharmaceuticals, automotive, marine, and food/beverage. They are used in many applications such as:
Seamless tubing is tubes that do not have a welded seam, unlike its counterpart. This type of tubing is produced through an extrusion process. The tube is drawn from a billet of solid stainless steel and extruded into a hollow form. This is done by heating the stainless steel billet before being formed in oblong circular molds. These molds are drawn through a mandrel rod, elongating the material. This process creates a seamless, homogenous tube shape. The shape is further defined through cold drawing.
Compared to welded, seamless tubing is stronger and has superior corrosion resistance due to its homogenous shape. Furthermore, it has higher pressure resistance allowing it to be used in more critical applications. Some of these applications are:
Regardless if you are looking for welded or seamless stainless steel tubes for your project, Detroit Nipple Works has you covered. Since 1934, our company has been one of the premier manufacturers and suppliers of pipes, tubes, and nipples. Detroit Nipple Works has both types of tubes available so clients can get the tubing they need for their projects. However, our company has more than just tubing. Detroit Nipple Works has an extensive list of products to help customers find exactly what they need!