If you are installing a piping system, you can select from a wide range of materials. For example, many companies choose carbon steel, but in some cases, iron, stainless steel, or plastic may be the better choice. Yet, for many industrial and commercial applications, some contractors choose carbon steel industrial pipe. Here are some of the benefits carbon steel has to offer.
What is Carbon Steel?
Iron is very strong and durable, but when you add carbon and other ingredients to it, you get steel. In fact, virgin steel has about one and one-half percent carbon. Yet, if you increase the carbon content to a little over two percent, you get carbon steel.
Carbon Steel Vs. Iron
Carbon steel industrial pipe is more durable than iron. It does not scratch as easily as iron pipe. Carbon is more energy-efficient even though it costs more to make than iron.
Safety
Working with some kinds of piping can be hazardous to the installers. For example, with some plastic piping, you must use glue or adhesives which create toxic fumes. Some piping gets treated with preservatives, but treating is not necessary with carbon steel. It is safe for people to work with.
Corrosion Issues
When you think of iron or steel, you may think about rusting and corroding. However, carbon steel is more resistant to corrosion than iron. If you need to install piping in acidic or corrosive environments, carbon steel industrial pipe is the most cost-effective choice.
Shock
Installing piping systems underneath roadways or bridges can be a problem because of the weight of heavy vehicles. In fact, plastic pipe may not hold up to the vibrations and shock placed on it by traffic. However, carbon steel is very strong and shock-resistant. Water lines do not deform or crack under pressure from constant traffic.
