Send the specification, destination and target volume for an order-specific quote.
Pipe buyers often start by comparing price per ton, but the first real question is how the pipe is made. Seamless, ERW, LSAW and spiral pipe differ in how they are formed and in the sizes and service they suit. Choosing the right type avoids paying for capability you do not need, or buying pipe that cannot do the job.
| Type | How it is made | Seam | Typical size range | Typical uses |
| Seamless | Pierced from a solid billet | None | Small to about 24 in | Pressure, high-temperature and boiler service |
| ERW | Strip formed and resistance welded | Straight | Up to about 24 in | Water, structural and general line pipe |
| LSAW | Plate formed and submerged arc welded | Straight | About 16 in and larger | Large-diameter pipelines and heavy structures |
| SSAW (spiral) | Strip formed into a helix and submerged arc welded | Spiral | Large diameters | Water lines, piling and structural pipe |
Size ranges are approximate and differ by mill and standard. This comparison of seamless, ERW and LSAW pipe gives more background. Confirm the actual range with your supplier.
With no weld seam, seamless pipe is often specified for pressure and high-temperature service, or where the code or specification requires it. Larger sizes and thick walls can cost considerably more and may be harder to source, so do not specify seamless by habit if your code allows another type.
ERW pipe is made from strip with a straight seam, and it is usually an economical choice in common sizes. It suits many water, gas, structural and general services when the standard and inspection level fit the job.
Both are used for large diameters. LSAW is made from plate with a straight seam, and it is common on demanding large-diameter pipelines. Spiral pipe has a helical seam, which makes large diameters practical and is widely used for water lines and piling. Project requirements should decide whether spiral pipe is acceptable for pressure service.
Spiral welded steel pipe, API 5L Gr.B PSL1, OD 1016 × 12 mm × 12 m, 3PE coated, bevelled ends, 500 tons, CIF [destination port].
No. It avoids a weld seam, but modern welded pipe suits many services at lower cost. The specification and service should decide.
It is widely used for this, subject to the pile design and required standard.
They are product specification levels in API 5L. PSL2 has stricter requirements than PSL1, so choose the level stated in your specification.
Shanghai Banzhijia Steel supplies seamless pipe, welded pipe and spiral pipe. Send us your size list and service conditions, and our sales team will reply with a quote.
Send the specification, quantity and destination port, and our sales team will prepare a quote.
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