5 Things to Know Before Buying Galvanized Pipe Fittings Suppliers in Australia

Being one of the most used materials in the world, steel pipes have applications in several industries that you might have yet to know. From the construction industry to interior design and even automobile manufacturing, steel pipes with their several advantages can be found everywhere. Buying steel pipes seems to be an easy task, but how to buy them correctly and effectively can be a difficult one. In the blog below, Chinh Dai Steel will show you things you should consider before buying steel pipes.

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I. Overall about steel pipes

1. What are steel pipes?

Known as the most utilized product made from steel, steel pipes are cylindrical tubes with thin walls and hollow structures that are used in many ways in manufacturing and infrastructure. Depending on the purposes, steel pipes can be galvanized or used for further manufacturing processes. 

2. Application of steel pipes

Steel pipes can be found anywhere in the world. The primary use of steel pipes is in liquid & gas (underground) transportation including oil, gas, and water. However, the main purpose of steel pipes is throughout the manufacturing and construction industry. With the strength, durability, and ability to withstand extreme temperatures, pressures, and destructive elements, steel pipes make it possible to be the initial part of every building & construction. 

3. Classifications of steel pipes

There are many ways to classify steel pipes but the most common method is based on their characteristics. We then have 04 popular classifications of steel pipes: carbon steel pipes, stainless steel pipes, black steel pipes, and galvanized steel pipes. 

a. Carbon steel pipes

Being made of steel in which carbon is the main chemical element and determines the extent of the metal’s physical characteristics such as strength and toughness, carbon steel pipes are considered the most cost-effective type of steel pipes. During the manufacturing process, producers add carbon to iron so as to harden and strengthen the resulting metal.

Based on the purposes, carbon steel pipes are also classified as ultra-high carbon steel pipes, high carbon steel pipes, medium carbon steel pipes, low carbon steel pipes, and mild carbon steel pipes. 

Carbon steel pipes are mainly used in transporting water and wastewater underground, in industrial operations involving high temperature… 

b. Stainless steel pipes

Stainless steel pipes are widely known for their considerable corrosion resistance and in great demand in many countries. Also known as inox steel pipe, they are made of steel containing iron, carbon, and at least 10.5% chromium content, in which chromium is the main element. In stainless steel pipes, there is a passive layer that helps to protect the metal from deterioration which is made from the reaction between chromium and oxygen. 

Stainless steel pipes are commonly used in construction, transporting fluids, and other industries such as automotive industries, pharmaceutics… 

c. Black steel pipes

Black steel pipes are the most highly stable structured steel pipe for sale thanks to their convenience and high stability. Also called raw or bare steel pipes, black steel pipes are made of steel that is not covered with any kind of coatings. The ‘black’ in its name derives from the dark-colored iron oxide cover formed on its surface during the fabrication process.

Black steel pipes are also used in transporting water & oil and the construction industry, especially in making fences and scaffoldings. 

d. Galvanized steel pipes

Galvanized steel pipes are made of steel that is coated with several protective layers of molten zinc to prevent the pipes from rust and corrosion. The galvanization process was invented in the s and galvanized steel pipes have replaced lead-based pipes since then. 

Mostly used as water conveyance and building materials, galvanized steel pipes are broadly applied in many industries such as automatic and general engineering industries, bus body, and railway bogies manufacturer… 

II. What you should consider before buying steel pipes? 

Since steel pipes have many classifications and a wide variety of applications, we need to consider carefully before giving out the buying decision. 

Below is a list of things that you should consider before choosing any steel pipes for your projects and constructions. 

1. Which type of steel pipes are you looking for?

Before buying anything, you need to determine the exact classification of steel pipes you are in need of and what you are going to do with the pipes. As listed above, there are 04 types of steel pipes with different coating and characteristics. Carbon steel pipes are the least expensive pipes to get while stainless steel pipes do not rust. Galvanized steel pipes are coated with several layers of zinc which enhances the corrosion resistance and strength while black steel pipes can be used in many industries such as construction, fire fighting, fence making, scaffoldings… 

2. The grade of the steel pipes

Another step to get the correct steel pipes is to determine the grade of steel you need. You can base on international standards to pick out the most suitable steel pipes for the projects. The ASTM and ASME standards usually have piping specs that help you a lot in showing you which grades will do the best job. However, there are still differences between these two standards, which resulted from different testing methods applied. That’s why you should check the specs carefully when choosing the right grade of steel pipes.

Besides, you can also count on SAE & AISI – the two other organizations that are well known for steel pipe grades. Their numbering system simplifies a lot of the more complex classifications of steel pipes, however, not the whole specifications when choosing the correct pipes. 

When basing on international standards to find the correct steel pipes grade, you should refer to industry standards as well. For example, if you are looking for oil and gas transporting steel pipes, the API 5L standard will do the job. It is the industry standard for oil and gas transporting pipes. When there are a lot of standards to consider to make the buying decision, you should combine them together to have a full profile to narrow down what works best for your projects. 

3. Seamless or welded steel pipes?

The customization options of steel pipes are also an important factor to consider when buying steel pipes. Of which, there are the 02 most popular options of customization: seamless or welded. The decision is mostly based on your choice of what would best suit your needs. However, most welded pipes are more cost-effective than seamless, and it becomes a huge thing to consider when you buy in bulk. 

Also, the consistency from pipe to pipe, which enhances the wall thickness, also an important factor to count when choosing the customization option of steel pipes. Manufacturers will keep the consistency by checking the internal surface of steel pipes, which could be extremely difficult when it comes to seamless steel pipes due to the way they are made. Hence, if you are finding steel pipes with a high consistency from pipe to pipe, welded steel pipes are the best choice.

However, seamless pipes are without seams (of course) and have the advantage of consistent roundness. Hence, there will be no chance for a weak seam, which might lead to a headache problem for the projects in the near future. 

4. Quantity

Whatever you buy, buying in bulk always gets you a better price. Besides, you might have the added benefit of mixing steel pipes length and size or getting customize-to-need pipes; which you will never have once you buy in small quantities. 

Besides, if you purchase pipes at full length, there might be extra benefits from manufacturers. To get this, you should pay attention to reputed manufacturers’ websites to know where the most savings are. 

In case you are not concerned about the price, you still need to consider the quantity of steel pipes you need to get the correct quotation. Some steel manufacturers only sell steel pipes in exact quantities. Also, to avoid mistakes happening during the projects, you might want to buy extra steel pipes to take the initiative. 

5. Pipe size

Specifying the steel pipes’ size might be a problem since it often contains plumbing terminology which is not familiar to most buyers. It’s essential to know the fittings and size before ordering any steel pipes. You can research the fittings and sizes based on manufactures’ charts, or consult with the sellers. If you buy in bulk, it’s easy to get steel pipes customized to your needs and wants. 

6. Why does coating matter? 

Steel is strong already, but the coatings give out additional properties as it protects the steel itself from corrosion and harsh weather conditions. Hence, steel pipes with coatings are highly recommended when you are finding ones that are strong and durable. Others’ based on your needs and budget. Black steel pipes are the alternative option for galvanized steel pipes if you just need steel pipes to work on other projects such as fences, barricades… Meanwhile, galvanized steel pipes are strong and protect perfectly against corrosion and do the job better in transporting water. 

Pre-painted steel pipes are also a good choice from residential to commercial with their multiple uses and competitive prices. It is durable yet also visually attractive, which is needed for any project. 

7. Choosing reputed suppliers

Choosing the correct type, quantity and coating is not sufficient if you cannot find a reputable supplier that manufactures high-quality steel pipes. If you need to find trusted suppliers by searching and scrolling through the feedback section, here are some factors you should refer to:

• They have mills with high production capacity
• Their products should be qualified for specific international standards which are widely applied for their purposes
• It should be easy to track the origin of the product on its labels and QR codes, which ensures you are buying the steel pipes from a prestigious supplier/manufacturer

Why should you choose Chinh Dai Steel steel pipes? 

Chinh Dai Steel supplies steel pipes and steel products that tick all the boxes. All products, from galvanized steel coils, galvanized steel pipes, black steel pipes to galvanized perforated purlins and agricultural supports such as cattle panels … are manufactured from carefully selected materials. 

Chinh Dai Steel has experienced over 20 years of development in international markets. Chinh Dai Steel has 03 factories covering a total area of 10 hectares with a production capacity of 300,000 tons of steel pipes and about 250,000 tons of galvanized steel coils annually.

Since , Chinh Dai Industrial ranks No. 1 in Vietnam and Southeast Asia in terms of steel pipe export volume to Australia. The steel pipes and steel products from Chinh Dai are manufactured using high-quality materials, such as galvanized steel products with the zinc coating from Z120 – Z275. These products meet international standards such as ASTM (A500, A53 & A513) AS / NZ , JIS G, and EN and you can easily check the origins of every product on its own labels with QR codes.

Final words

Whether you are finding the steel pipes for personal or professional usage, getting the right steel pipes all comes down to research. Don’t let the information overwhelm you into making a rushed decision. Follow the steps, take the time and give out the final decision. Consistency makes all the difference in the world, and it’s the same process with choosing the right steel pipes. 

Unless you’re a plumber or a pipe relining expert, you may not realise how many different types of materials plumbing pipes can be made out of. In this article, we’re going to have quick look at the most common types of plumbing pipes you’ll find, and have a look at their advantages and disadvantages.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Galvanized Pipe Fittings Suppliers in Australia.

If you’re having problems with your existing pipes, the good news is you may not have to replace them. Pipe relining is a cheaper solution for fixing damaged pipes. It’s quicker and far less invasive than digging trenches or calling out a traditional plumber.

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5 Most common plumbing pipes

The best plumbing pipes for your home or commercial building

Before we talk about the best pipes for your property, let’s explore the five main pipes you can expect to see around the perimeter. Keep reading for the full list.

5 Most common plumbing pipes

Curious about what pipes might already be fitted to your Aussie home? Keep reading to discover the five most common types of plumbing pipes used around the country.

1. Copper plumbing pipes

Copper piping is one the most commonly used materials in Australia, especially when it comes to tight spaces and interior plumbing. When used underground, it’s recommended you have an inner and outer layer, with a plastic protective layer to avoid damage.

Average lifespan of copper pipes: Copper is one of the most long-lasting materials you can use for plumbing pipe. There are copper pipes installed 60-70 years ago that are still running strong. If you plan to use copper, make sure your plumber uses locally made copper pipe. Australia and New Zealand have strict regulations regarding copper pipes that may not be standard in other countries, which could be costly to you down the track.

Pros:

• Longevity: One of the biggest advantages of Copper Pipes are their longevity. Copper is able to resist corrosion,
• Durability: Unlike other materials, copper is corrosion resistance and is generally known for being a strong material.
• Recyclable: In the eventual circumstance you need to replace copper pipes, copper is a very re-useable material and easily be recycled.
• Safety: Copper Pipes are great for hygiene as it’s not a good place for bacteria to breed. Copper also won’t contaminate the water any way, making it ideal for drinking water supply lines.
• Temperature Tolerance: Copper pipes are great for hot and cold water, as it is very adaptable towards extreme temperatures.

Cons:

• Expensive: The biggest deterrent with copper is the price. It is easily one of the more expensive materials to build with.
• Environmentally unfriendly: Although it is a recyclable material, copper needs to be mined and manufactured which can have a negative impact on the environment
• More difficult to install: Copper can take longer to install than plastic, though nowadays, copper piping often uses push-fit/crimp connections over soldered fittings which cuts down the installation time drastically.

2. PVC plumbing pipes (polyvinyl chloride)

Currently the most popular pipes (along with ABS pipe) used in the homes and most commercial areas. These plastic piping is commonly used for sewerage pipes, as flexible PVC pipes are easy to manoeuvre.

Average lifespan of PVC plumbing pipes: This can vary depending on the quality of your pipes and the type of plastic pipe you’re using. It can range from anywhere from forty to 100 years depending on the quality of the pipe. Issues with outdoor plastic piping can often be fixed with a relining saving you the cost of a complete replacement.

Pros:

• Larger pieces: PVC pipe can come in a range of sizes which requires less joints.
• Chemical resistant: Plastic pipe are non-corrosive and resistant to most chemicals (some types more so than others so discuss this with your contractor).
• Easy to adapt: Plastic pipes are among the most variable when it comes to sizes and can often be custom made to meet your needs.

Cons:

• Warping: One of the possible downsides on PVC Piping is it can be prone to warping when exposed to extreme temperatures.
• Not suitable for high pressure environments: Some industries require high pressure pipes for their business to function and PVC is not an appropriate option. However, this isn’t an issue for your home.

3. Clay plumbing pipes

In the past, clay pipes were the go to option for Australian homes and their plumbing needs. Older homes often still have clay pipes, however, plumbers often recommend replacing them with plastic pipe material or something more durable.

Average lifespan of clay plumbing pipes: Clay pipes can last for up to 100 years, providing they don’t crack from the earth moving around them, which they are prone to do.

Pros:

• Rust Proof: Clay won’t rust like other material and has less chance of corrosion.
• Copes well with heat: Clay pipes tend to handle high temperatures well.

Cons:

• Fragile: The biggest disadvantage of clay pipes is their susceptibility to tree roots and the damage they can cause. They’re also at risk of cracking under pressure.
• Heavy: When installing, clay pipes are very heavy yet fragile, making them a chore to install successfully.
• Difficult to find: Though still possible to buy, it will be hard to find and you’re unlikely to find a contractor or plumber who’ll recommend it.

4. Galvanized steel pipes/cast iron pipes

Galvanized pipe are steel pipes commonly used in Australia during the s-60s. Nowadays, plumbers don’t typically install them. However, if you own an older home, it is possible to still have these pipes in tact.

Similar to galvanized steel pipes, however cast iron pipe has an internal/external coating that helps prevent corrosion. Like galvanized steel pipe, cast iron is rarely used these days, though when it is found, it’s sometimes used in multi-unit developments or similar setups, due to it’s noise cancelling properties.

Average lifespan of galvanized steel pipes: Galvanized steel pipe tends to last for 20 to 50 years which may seem like a long time, but it much shorter than a lot of other materials.

Pros:

• More corrosion resistant: If you’re worried about a corrosive environment, galvanized steel pipes are great for moist environments.
• Sturdy material: Though not installed as often as it was in the past, the good news is that cast iron is a reliable material, so if you buy a pre-existing house with galvanized steel pipes, it’s unlikely to be something to concerned about.

Cons:

• Heavy and hard to install: Compared to plastic pipe, cast iron and galvanized pipes are very heavy, require special tools to cut, and are costly.
• Not always durable: Galvanized steel pipes are vulnerable are not corrosion resistant which can be an issue when transporting drinking water.

5. ABS piping material

ABS pipes are similar to PVC pipe, though they tend to have black colour and are a common material for sewer lines and storm water pipes.

Average lifespan of ABS piping: They typically last anywhere from 50-80 years.

Pros:

• Cost effective: Like PVS, ABS piping is much cheaper than metal pipes.
• Better Flow Rate: Due to the smoother inner-surface, the flow rate is superior in
• Stronger than PVC: One reason a plumber may choose ABS over PVC pipe is that is a stronger material.
• Easy to Install: Plastic pipes are much easier to install than those made of steel.

Cons:

• Cannot be used outdoors if exposed: ABS pipes are vulnerable UV rays.
• Need to be installed correctly: If installed incorrectly, the pipe is at risk of bowing or sagging.

The best plumbing pipes for your home or commercial building

Keep in mind that some of the above materials are no longer commonly used. However, you still have a few choice when it comes to material for your pipes. Your choice of pipe will come down a few basic factors including:

Function: Different materials will work better for different purposes.

Where you’re installing: The area you’re installing in can influence your decision when it comes to pipe material.

Price: Everyone has a budget, and this will influence your choice in material.

Have a chat to a trusted professional and they will be able to advise you on the best setup for your requirements.

Our experienced team can answer any questions you have and will have your pipes fixed in no time. Book your free pipe relining consultation here or call us on 02 . 

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