Difference between Black Steel Pipe and Galvanized Steel Pipe
time2024/12/27
- Black steel pipe is cheaper than galvanized pipe. This is due to the zinc coating on galvanized pipe and the manufacturing process making it. Black steel pipe is darker than galvanized pipe; it is flat black while galvanized pipe is silver and gray. Black pipe is ordinary iron pipe used by businesses and residences to carry natural gas or propane gas supplies. Galvanized pipe is usually applied for water carriage.
Black iron pipes and galvanized pipes are two of the most common pipes used to transport liquids and gases.
So, what is the difference between black pipe and galvanized pipe.
1. Appearance
Black iron pipes are darker compared to galvanized pipes. The iron oxide formed during manufacturing is what resulted in its gray appearance. Galvanized pipes appear silvery-white in color due to the galvanization. The zinc coating results in a shiny smoother and higher quality finish.
2. Material
Black iron pipes are made from iron. It is not coated with any protective layer, which makes it susceptible to rust and corrosion when exposed to moisture.
Galvanized pipe is made from steel that has been coated with a layer of zinc to protect it from corrosion. The zinc coating gives it a barrier against rust.
3. Manufacturing Process
Black iron pipes are manufactured by stretching the steel out into a seamless tube or forcing the edges together and sealing them with a weld.
Hot-dip galvanized pipes are manufactured by black steel pipe and with zinc coating. The process involves acid washing the steel pipe to remove any rust or oxidation, cleaning it with a solution of ammonium chloride, zinc chloride, or a combination of both before immersion in a hot-dip galvanizing bath.
4. Corrosion Resistance
The main difference between black iron pipes and galvanized pipes is corrosion resistance.
Black iron pipe is manufactured using mild steel. It has a low-grade carbon content. More prone to rust and corrosion, especially in wet environments. It is typically used in applications where it will not be exposed to moisture.
Galvanized pipes are covered with a protective layer of zinc. The process of adding a layer of zinc is called galvanization, which makes the pipes possess an ideal property of higher corrosion resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use and in plumbing systems where moisture is present.
5. Applications
The seamless feature of black iron pipes makes it the best and safe option for transporting natural and propane gas. The black welded steel pipe is not only cheaper, but also good choice for delivery natural gas and also used for fire sprinkler systems.
Black iron pipes are known to corrode from water easily. This is why mainly use galvanized pipe for carrying water. Due to its ability to resist corrosion, it can also be utilized for countless outdoor and industrial applications. Its applications can include outdoor railings, scaffolding frames, fences, sewage plumbing, road signage, and farm irrigation.
6. Installation
Black Iron Pipe:
Typically joined using threaded connections or welding. It requires more care during installation to prevent leaks.
Galvanized Pipe:
Also joined using threaded connections, but the zinc coating can make cutting and threading more challenging due to the potential for flaking.
7. Cost
Consider choosing black iron pipes over galvanized pipes if you have a budget in mind and if durability is not your primary consideration.
Black Iron Pipe:
Generally less expensive than galvanized pipe due to the absence of the zinc coating.
Galvanized Pipe:
Usually more expensive because of the additional processing involved in galvanization.
8. Lifespan
Zinc coating increases galvanized pipes life expectancy for up to 40 or 50 years.
Black iron pipes are uncoated and therefore less durable. In addition, water does corrode this type of pipe fairly easily.
The final decision should depend on the specific application and environmental conditions. If you want to buy from a steel pipe supplier in China, Youfa Steel Pipe is your best source. We've been in the industry for more than 20 years, and we also offer the most competitive prices in the market without compromising quality. Click here to Contact Us now.
better for water supply and outdoor applications due to its corrosion resistance.