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It’s actually a well-known topic, but I recently came across an article that summarized it quite well; I’ve translated it for everyone’s reference. My translation skills are limited; please forgive me. PIPE VS TUBE: Pipes and tubes. STEEL PIPE: Metal pipe. STEEL TUBE: Metal tube. Key Dimensions: The most important characteristics of a pipe are its outer diameter and wall thickness. The outer diameter minus twice the wall thickness gives the inner diameter. The inner diameter determines the tube’s ability to allow fluid to pass through it. Its nominal pipe diameter does not match the actual diameter; it is merely a rough indicator. The most important dimensions of a pipe are the outer diameter (OD) and the wall thickness (WT). The OD minus 2 times WT gives the inner diameter (ID) of the pipe, which in turn determines the pipe’s capacity to hold liquid. NPS does not correspond to the actual diameter; it is only a rough indication. The most important characteristics of metal pipes are their outer diameter and wall thickness. These parameters are generally expressed in inches or millimeters as units, and the indicated outer diameter is the actual outer diameter. The most important dimensions of a steel tube are the outer diameter (OD) and the wall thickness (WT). These parameters are expressed in inches or millimeters and indicate the actual size of the hollow section. For metal tubes, the wall thickness is specified using a “schedule” value (the most common ones being Sch.40, Sch. STD., Sch. XS, Sch. XXS, etc.). When two pipes have different nominal diameters but the same schedule value, their wall thicknesses are different. The thickness of a steel pipe is indicated by a “Schedule” value (the most common ones being Sch. 40, Sch. STD., Sch. XS, Sch. XXS). Two pipes with different NPS values but the same Schedule designation have different wall thicknesses, measured in inches or millimeters. The wall thickness of a steel tube is also expressed in inches or millimeters; for tubes, this thickness is specified using a specific gauge notation. Types of Pipes and Tubes (Shapes): Round – only circular tubes; Round, rectangular, square, oval – circular, rectangular, square, oval shapes. Production range: The range of sizes available for mass production varies; it can be up to 80 inches or more for certain pipes, while tubes have a narrower range, up to 5 inches. Tolerances (straightness, dimensions, roundness, etc.) and strength: Tolerances are set, but they are relatively loose, as strength isn’t a primary concern. Metal pipes, on the other hand, have strict tolerances. During manufacturing, pipes need to have their various dimensions inspected, such as straightness, roundness, wall thickness, as well as the condition of their surface. Mechanical strength is a key consideration for pipes. Steel tubes are manufactured to very strict tolerances. During the production process, various dimensional quality checks are carried out on these tubes, including checks for straightness, roundness, wall thickness, and surface condition. Mechanical strength is a key factor that needs to be considered in regard to tubes. The production process involves highly automated and efficient methods, with tube manufacturers typically producing tubes in bulk and distributing them around the world. Pipes are generally manufactured using highly automated and efficient processes – pipe mills operate on a continuous basis, and distributors stock them around the world. The manufacturing process for tubes is longer and requires more labor. Delivery times can be short, but they are generally longer. The market price of tubes is relatively lower per ton compared to steel tubes, although it is higher due to lower production efficiency per hour in tube manufacturing, as well as stricter requirements regarding tolerances and inspections. There is a wide range of materials available for tube production; tubes are typically made from carbon steel, low-alloy steel, stainless steel, and nickel alloys. Steel tubes used in mechanical applications are usually made of carbon steel. The most common end connection types are beveled, plain, and threaded ends; threaded and grooved ends are also available to facilitate faster installation on-site