Stainless Steel Tubes vs Pipes: What is the Difference?

Stainless steel tubes and pipes may look similar, but they serve different purposes. Tubes are typically specified by their outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness and are available in round, square, and rectangular shapes. They are commonly used for precision applications such as instrumentation, heat exchangers, and structural components. Pipes are primarily circular and are generally sized by Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) and schedule, making them well suited for pressure, fluid, and gas transportation. Common stainless steel grades include 304, 316L, and 321.

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