Stainless and carbon steel are two highly popular grades of tubing. They’re used for all sorts of work in the mechanical industry. Both material types come with their own advantages and shortcomings. What we want to do here is look at the primary considerations to take into account when using them. Knowing these, you will be able to make the right material choice for your next project. We can help with that, offering the best ERW steel tubes in the West Midlands.
Carbon steel
When specifying any product, sustainability, longevity, and cost are critical issues. Carbon steel over the last decade has seen more use as a greener alternative to mild steel. It is as much as 50% lighter. Not only is installation simpler, but carbon steel utilises fewer materials. The result is that there is less CO2 during manufacturing.
Carbon steel together with press-fitted connections now sees extensive use. This is thanks to its corrosion resistance in chilled water and closed heating systems. Boasting better eco credentials and money-saving pros, the metal is a convincing alternative. All you need to do is ensure you install it properly.
One of carbon steel’s essential benefits is the anti-corrosive attribute in closed-circuit systems. Although, you need correct commissioning, installation, handling, and storage. Otherwise, you can’t alleviate damage from corrosion. Come to us if you need the finest ERW steel tubes West Midlands has.
When you don’t follow the manufacturer’s guidance with these tubes though, issues can develop. With carbon steel, you must keep it clean. Before fitting, you need to protect the tubing from damage and dirt. You also shouldn’t store it alongside stainless steel tube. Contact corrosion can happen if you do.
These products need to be moisture free as well. Protect your tubes against moisture and the influence of weather. For chilled-water applications, you need to maintain a barrier in locales where condensation is likely to happen.
Keeping your products oxygen free is also crucial. The likelihood of corrosion goes up if oxygen exists in the circuit. There is a greater chance when concentrations exceed 0.1g/m3. It can happen via automatic air valves, screw connections, or compression glands. Although, there is minimal danger of corrosive damage from oxygen when supplementing and filling with water. This is because oxygen levels are low.
Stainless steel
This is a distinct form of steel that doesn’t corrode. It obtains such a characteristic by using chromium as a special alloying agent. What you get is steel’s basic properties. However, the material reacts to oxygen in the air to create an oxide layer. It will protect it against additional oxidation. Because of this, you can use it in open systems and projects demanding high hygiene levels. Choose us if you need reliable ERW steel tubes in the West Midlands for these projects.
The flexibility and durability of stainless steel is essential while deciding on systems. It can provide a far longer lifespan than carbon steel. Due to the anti-corrosive features, it can last up to 50 years. The 316 grade is also usable for potable water and vented systems. Thus, you can use it as a replacement for copper. It is worth considering this with projects where copper theft can be a concern. This is especially true with larger dimensions.
As opposed to carbon steel fabrications, you don’t need to examine stainless steel for paint degradation. Nor do you need to repaint it. You’ll save money and time on plant shutdowns, insulation removal, and other jobs. Even better, you can use it in heavily corrosive settings like underground, off shore, and coastal locales. It is a versatile option regardless of the work you are doing.
There are many options available if you need ERW steel tubes in the West Midlands
At Union Steel Tubes, we have plenty of options in regards to tubing. This extends to our finishes as well. You can choose the likes of chrome and zinc plated, or deburred. We ensure that orders get to the clients quickly as well through our excellent delivery service.
So, if you need the foremost ERW steel tubes in the West Midlands, contact us. We can supply them with assurances on the quality.
