Difference between carbon steel pipe and galvanized pipe

Posted by zora li on April 24th, 2024

Difference between carbon steel pipe and galvanized pipe

Carbon steel pipe and galvanized pipe are two different pipes, which differ in material, surface treatment, performance characteristics and application range:

1. Material and manufacturing process:

Carbon steel pipe is mainly composed of carbon steel composed of an alloy of carbon and iron, which has good mechanical properties and processing properties, but poor corrosion resistance. Galvanized pipe is a carbon steel pipe surface treated with galvanizing.

Carbon steel pipe is usually made by perforating steel ingots or solid round steel into rough pipes, and then hot rolling, cold rolling or cold drawing.

2. Surface treatment:

Carbon steel pipe is generally not surface treated or only grease coated, which is easily affected by external oxidation corrosion.

Galvanized pipe is coated with a layer of zinc on the surface of carbon steel pipe. This process is to immerse the steel pipe in a hot dip galvanizing tank to cover its surface with a layer of zinc. The galvanized layer is formed by electroplating and other technologies, which can not only prevent the surface of the steel pipe from rusting and increase its corrosion resistance, but also improve the wear resistance and aesthetics of the pipeline.

3. Performance characteristics:

Carbon steel pipes have weak corrosion resistance and are suitable for conveying fluids or gases and withstand greater pressure.

Galvanized pipes have excellent corrosion resistance, especially in humid and corrosive areas, and are more suitable for use.

4. Application scope:

Carbon steel pipes are suitable for conveying gas or fluids and withstand greater pressure. They are mainly used in conveying industries and construction industries such as oil field production pipelines, natural gas pipelines, high-rise buildings and bridge support structures.

Galvanized pipes are mainly used in humid and corrosive occasions, such as anti-corrosion, line laying, petrochemical, chemical, shipbuilding and marine development.

5. Cost:

Carbon steel pipes are usually cheaper than galvanized pipes because no additional galvanizing process is required.

6. Appearance: 

After the zinc layer is applied to the surface of the galvanized pipe, it presents a bright silver-white color, which has good decorativeness and recognition.

Carbon steel pipes are mainly in a simple black appearance.

In summary, the selection of carbon steel pipes and galvanized pipes should be determined according to the use environment and anti-corrosion requirements.