MS Pipe (Mild Steel Pipe)
Mild Steel (MS) pipes are carbon steel pipes made from low carbon content, typically under 0.3%. These pipes are widely used in construction, infrastructure, and industrial applications. MS pipes are known for their strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
2. Material Composition:
- Base Material: Mild Steel
- Carbon Content: Typically 0.05% to 0.25% carbon content, offering good ductility and weldability.
3. Manufacturing Process:
- ERW (Electric Resistance Welded): The most common manufacturing process for MS pipes. It involves heating the edges of a steel strip and then welding them together.
- Seamless Pipes: Made by extruding the steel into a pipe without welding.
4. Specifications:
- Standard Sizes: Diameters typically range from ½ inch to 12 inches, although larger sizes are available.
- Wall Thickness: Varies from Schedule 10 to Schedule 160, based on application requirements.
- Length: Available in custom lengths (usually 6 meters or more).
- Grades: Common grades include IS 1239, IS 3589, ASTM A53, and ASTM A106.
5. Applications:
- Construction: Used for structural purposes, support frameworks, etc.
- Water Supply & Distribution: Often used in plumbing and piping systems.
- Industrial Use: Ideal for carrying fluids, gases, and chemicals.
- Electrical Conduits: As protective casing for electrical wires.
- Fencing: In residential and industrial fencing.
6. Advantages:
- Strength: Offers high tensile strength, suitable for heavy-duty applications.
- Malleability: Easy to weld and form into different shapes.
- Cost-Effective: Economical material for large-scale infrastructure projects.
GI Pipe (Galvanized Iron Pipe)
Galvanized Iron (GI) pipes are steel pipes coated with a layer of zinc to prevent corrosion and rust. These pipes are widely used in plumbing and various industrial applications where the material will be exposed to moisture and outdoor conditions.
2. Material Composition:
- Base Material: Mild Steel
- Coating: Zinc-coated to provide corrosion resistance. The thickness of the zinc coating can vary, usually from 80 to 200 g/m².
3. Manufacturing Process:
- Hot-Dip Galvanizing: The pipe is dipped in molten zinc to coat the steel surface.
- Electro-Galvanizing: A method where the zinc coating is applied through electrolysis.
4. Specifications:
- Standard Sizes: Diameters typically range from 15 mm to 100 mm.
- Wall Thickness: Varies depending on the grade and application.
- Grades: IS 1239, IS 3589, BS 1387, and ASTM A53.
- Coating Thickness: Typically 40 to 60 microns for general use, and thicker for harsh environments.
5. Applications:
- Water Supply Systems: Commonly used for water pipelines due to their corrosion resistance.
- Sewerage Systems: Used for drainage and sewage piping.
- Agriculture: Often used for irrigation pipes.
- Fencing and Railing: Used in outdoor fences and railings.
- Fire Protection Systems: In some instances, used in fire sprinkler systems due to their durability.
6. Advantages:
- Corrosion Resistance: The zinc coating provides excellent resistance against rust and corrosion.
- Longevity: The life span of GI pipes is extended due to the protective zinc layer.
- Cost-Effective: Affordable compared to other corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel.
- Strength: Strong and durable, capable of withstanding pressure and external impact.
G.I. Pipe (Galvanized Iron Pipe) vs. MS Pipe (Mild Steel Pipe)
| Property | MS Pipe | GI Pipe |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Mild Steel (low carbon content) | Steel coated with zinc (galvanized) |
| Corrosion Resistance | Low, requires coating or paint for protection | High due to zinc coating |
| Usage | Construction, plumbing, industrial | Plumbing, water supply, agriculture |
| Welding | Easy to weld and fabricate | Weldable but may need extra care due to zinc coating |
| Strength | High tensile strength | Good strength, but lower than MS pipe |
| Cost | Generally cheaper | Slightly more expensive due to galvanizing process |
| Life Span | Shorter in outdoor/harsh conditions | Longer lifespan in outdoor/harsh conditions |
| Applications | Structural, non-corrosive environments | Water systems, sewage, agricultural pipes |