Seamless or Welded? Methods of Manufacturing Stainless Steel Pipes

A hollow cylinder with a closed circular cross-section — not the most exciting definition, right? Yet stainless steel pipes, which fit this very description, continue to surprise with their vast range of applications and ever-improving performance. What types are available, and where do they work best? Today at INOX Polska, we’re clearing up all your doubts!

Stainless Steel Pipes – Product Range

Stainless steel pipes come in a wide variety of sizes and lengths, making it easy to find the right fit for almost any project. What’s more, diversity extends beyond dimensions — while classic round shapes dominate, you’ll also find rectangular, elliptical, and square pipe profiles used in modern applications.

Seamless vs. Welded – Manufacturing Methods

When discussing stainless steel pipes, we can distinguish two main categories: welded and seamless pipes. What exactly sets them apart? The key difference lies in the manufacturing technology, which directly affects the product’s durability and performance. Let’s take a closer look:

  • Seamless pipes have been used in industry since the late 19th century. They can be produced in several ways — for example, by cross-roll piercing or extrusion under pressure — but they all share one crucial feature: the absence of any weld. This seamless structure ensures superior strength and quality. Seamless stainless steel pipes are ideal for high-performance structural applications thanks to their outstanding durability and pressure resistance.

  • Welded pipes were the first to dominate the market, with their origins dating back to 1825. Initially produced by rolling steel strips, this method has since evolved into more advanced techniques such as lap or butt welding and electric resistance welding (ERW). These modern solutions have significantly improved both precision and the strength of joints. Today, welded pipes are widely used across multiple industries, appreciated for their cost efficiency and the ability to achieve large diameters.

Applications of Stainless Steel Pipes

Thanks to their strength and exceptional resistance to external factors, stainless steel pipes are now indispensable in countless industries. They are commonly used for fluid and gas transport systems, as well as for structural components in demanding sectors such as construction, chemical processing, and even the aerospace industry.

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