Although all forms of steel make for durable building materials, over the years, experts in the field of custom fabrication have created different grades to serve different purposes. Carbon steel is a very popular product, as is a steel pipe, but both offer a unique set of benefits. To know which item is best for your project, it’s important to understand the fundamental differences between the two.

Carbon Steel & Steel Pipe: 3 Key Differences

1. Composition

No matter what grade you may be using, steel always consists of an alloy of iron and carbon. In carbon steel, as the name implies, the carbon content is unusually high, whereas, in steel pipe, this is not necessarily the case. Sometimes custom fabrication teams will opt for a higher grade for piping, as it may be used for both practical and decorative purposes.

2. Corrosion Resistance

Carbon steel often corrodes more quickly than steel pipe. As such, it’s often employed in applications like steel beams—most construction teams and architects don’t care that it will corrode more quickly than other grades because it is concealed within the building. Steel pipe, on the other hand, is often fabricated to stand up to corrosion, since it’s more frequently visible.

3. Cost

Because it isn’t as resistant to corrosion as other options, carbon steel is an affordable choice if you’re on a tight budget. While it still delivers reliable results, it’s not as useful for decorative uses. Depending on the grade of steel your piping is made of, steel pipe tends to be more expensive, but is often worth the price due to its aesthetic superiority.

Understanding these basic differences will help guide you toward the best product for your needs. However, to know which type would serve your purposes best, it’s a good idea to reach out to experts in your area. They’ll discuss your project with you, ensuring you make the right purchase.

Looking for a quality steel supplier in the Connecticut and Westchester, NY area? Get in touch with Magna Steel Sales, Inc., based in Beacon Falls, CT. Contact them online to learn more about their services, or call (203) 888-0300.