ERW Steel Pipe & Tube (Electric Resistance Welded)
ERW steel pipe is manufactured by cold-forming steel strip or coil into a cylindrical shape and welding the longitudinal seam using high-frequency electrical resistance welding, creating a strong, consistent bond.
Material
Carbon Steel and Low-Alloy Steel. Common grades include ASTM A53 Gr. B, ASTM A500 Gr. B/C, ASTM A513, API 5L PSL1 Gr. B, JIS G3444 STK400, GB/T 3091 Q235. Model: ERW Pipe, ERW Tube
Model
ERW Pipe, ERW Tube
Size
Outer Diameter (OD) range: approximately 10 mm (3/8″) to 660 mm (26″) and larger. Common NPS sizes from 1/2″ to 24″.
Thickness
Wall thickness typically from 0.8 mm to 25 mm, defined by schedule or gauge.
Standard
ASTM A53 (PSCH, FSCW), ASTM A500 (Structural), ASTM A513 (Mechanical), API 5L (Line Pipe), EN 10219 (S235-S460), JIS G3444.
MOQ
10 Metric Tons.
Delivery Time
Standard lead time is 4 to 8 weeks from order confirmation; common sizes may be available from stock.
Long Description
ERW (Electric Resistance Welded) steel pipe is produced by passing a continuous steel strip through a series of forming rolls that gradually shape it into a round tube. The open edges are then brought together and welded by applying a high-frequency electrical current, which heats the metal to forging temperature and fuses it under pressure without filler metal. This efficient, high-speed process results in a weld seam that is often as strong as or stronger than the parent metal. Post-weld heat treatment is commonly applied to normalize the weld zone and improve ductility. ERW pipes are known for their excellent dimensional accuracy, consistent wall thickness, smooth surface finish, and cost-effectiveness for medium to high-volume production. They serve a wide range of applications where the pressures and service conditions are less severe than those requiring seamless pipe.
Key Product Highlights
ERW pipe offers a precise, smooth weld seam with minimal internal and external flash, requiring little to no cleanup.
The manufacturing process allows for excellent dimensional consistency, particularly in outer diameter and wall thickness.
It is a highly economical choice for a wide range of structural, mechanical, and low to medium-pressure fluid applications.
Available in a broad range of diameters and wall thicknesses, from small tubing to large-diameter pipe.
The product can be supplied in various lengths, including long random lengths, reducing the need for field joints.
Product Advantages
High production efficiency translates to competitive pricing and reliable availability for standard sizes.
Controlled welding and heat treatment processes ensure consistent weld quality and mechanical properties.
The smooth internal bore minimizes pressure drop and is suitable for conveying fluids and gases.
Easy to cut, thread, groove, and weld on-site using standard techniques and equipment.
Full compliance with international standards, including hydrostatic or non-destructive testing (eddy current, ultrasonic) as required.
Industry Application
This pipe is used for structural columns and trusses, fencing, handrails, scaffolding, water and gas distribution lines, mechanical tubing, automotive parts, furniture frames, and low-pressure hydraulic lines.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Unit | Structural ERW Pipe (e.g., A500 Gr.B) | Pressure ERW Pipe (e.g., A53 Gr.B) | Mechanical ERW Tube (e.g., A513) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon Content (C) | % | ≤ 0.26 | ≤ 0.30 | ≤ 0.25 (Type 1) | Varies by specific grade and application. |
| Manganese (Mn) | % | ≤ 1.35 | ≤ 1.20 | ≤ 1.35 (Type 1) | |
| Phosphorus (P) | % | ≤ 0.035 | ≤ 0.05 | ≤ 0.035 | Tighter controls in structural and mechanical grades. |
| Sulfur (S) | % | ≤ 0.035 | ≤ 0.06 | ≤ 0.035 | Tighter controls in structural and mechanical grades. |
| Tensile Strength | MPa | ≥ 400 | ≥ 415 | ≥ 310 (Type 1) | Minimum values per respective standard. |
| Yield Strength | MPa | ≥ 250 (Gr. B) | ≥ 240 | ≥ 215 (Type 1) | Minimum values per respective standard. |
| Elongation | % | ≥ 23 | See standard | ≥ 25 (Type 1) | |
| Hardness | HRB | ≤ 80 (typical) | N/A | N/A | Sometimes specified for structural pipe. |
| Outer Diameter (OD) | mm | 21.3 – 660+ | 10.3 – 660+ | 10 – 220 | Broad range; mechanical tube typically smaller OD. |
| Wall Thickness | mm | 1.5 – 25 | 2.0 – 25 | 0.8 – 12 | Varies by product type and size. |
| Length | m | Random (6-12m) or Cut Length | Random (6-12m) or Double Random | Cut Length (up to 12m) | |
| Surface Treatment | – | Bare, Galvanized, Painted | Bare, Black/Galvanized | Bare, Oiled, Galvanized | Galvanizing is common for corrosion protection. |
| Coating / Finish | – | Plain End, Beveled End | Plain, Threaded & Coupled, Beveled | Plain End, Deburred | End finish depends on application. |
| Manufacturing Process | – | ERW, Cold Formed | ERW, Continuous Weld (CW) | ERW, Cold Drawn (CDW optional) | ERW is the primary welding method. |
| Standard Example | – | ASTM A500 Gr. B Round | ASTM A53 Gr. B ERW | ASTM A513 Type 1 | Representative specifications for different uses. |
Packaging & Surface Treatment
Pipes are bundled according to size and length, secured with steel straps. For galvanized pipes, care is taken to avoid damaging the zinc coating. Bundles are often wrapped in waterproof material. Standard surface conditions include black (bare with mill scale), hot-dip galvanized (zinc-coated), or pre-painted. Plain ends are typical, but pipes can be supplied with threaded ends, grooved ends, or beveled ends for welding, often with protective plastic caps.
Aliases Names
Electric Resistance Welded Pipe, HFW Pipe (High-Frequency Welded), Continuous Welded Pipe (CW), Structural Hollow Section (when square or rectangular), Round Tube.
