Application of stainless steel welded pipe in various industries

Stainless steel welded pipes are versatile materials that are used in a wide range of industries due to their exceptional strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. Their ability to be fabricated in various sizes and grades makes them suitable for many applications, from automotive systems to fluid transportation. Below is an overview of the key industries where stainless steel welded pipes are widely applied.

1. Automotive Industry

One of the primary uses of stainless steel welded pipes in the automotive sector is in the exhaust systems of vehicles. Stainless steel, particularly ferritic grades such as 409L and 436L, is favored for its resistance to high temperatures and corrosion, making it ideal for exhaust applications. The exhaust gases produced by automobile engines pass through various components, including the exhaust gas intake pipe, front pipe, hose, converter, and center pipe, before being released through the muffler. Stainless steel welded pipes are predominantly used in the manufacturing of these components, with an estimated 1.5% of the total stainless steel welded pipes being used in automotive applications. Typically, a 2:1 ratio of stainless steel seamless pipes to welded pipes is observed in this industry.

2. Petrochemical Industry

The petrochemical industry represents a significant demand for stainless steel pipes, particularly for the transportation of fluids and gases under high pressure. While stainless steel seamless pipes are more commonly used in this sector, welded pipes are still critical for certain applications. Common materials used include grades such as 304, 321, 316, 316L, 347, and 317L. These pipes are utilized for various purposes, including furnace tubes, material conveying tubes, and heat exchanger tubes. The outer diameters of the pipes typically range from 18mm to 610mm, with wall thicknesses varying from 6mm to 50mm. The demand for stainless steel pipes in this industry is immense, driven by the need for high-strength, corrosion-resistant materials to withstand harsh operating conditions.

3. Fluid Transportation (Water and Gas)

Stainless steel pipes are considered some of the most advanced materials for fluid transportation, particularly in the water and gas sectors. With strong anti-corrosion properties, stainless steel is an ideal choice for water purification and distribution systems. It is commonly used in water preparation, storage, transportation, purification, regeneration, and seawater desalination. These pipes are highly durable and resistant to corrosion, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of water and gas over long distances. The global demand for stainless steel pipes in the water industry is substantial, with an estimated annual requirement of around 25,000 tons. This includes applications for both drinking water systems and wastewater treatment facilities.

4. Equipment Manufacturing and Maintenance

Stainless steel welded pipes are essential in various equipment manufacturing and maintenance sectors, with an annual consumption exceeding 20,000 tons. In these industries, sanitary and antibacterial-grade stainless steel pipes are commonly used. For example, SUS304 and 316L grades are used in the production of sanitary seamless pipes that meet the stringent requirements for transporting various media in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Antibacterial stainless steel combines the advantages of stainless steel with inherent antibacterial properties, making it particularly suitable for applications in food processing, medical equipment, and daily household products. These pipes are increasingly in demand for kitchen equipment, workbenches, medical instruments, tableware, refrigerator brackets, and other household and industrial uses.