What Is Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes & Tubes
Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes and Tubes are widely used components in industrial piping systems, valued for their durability, corrosion resistance, and clean surface finish. Both the pipes (as per ASTM A312) and tubes (as per ASTM A249) are fabricated by welding stainless steel strips or plates longitudinally using advanced welding techniques such as TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) or ERW (Electric Resistance Welding). These products are engineered to meet the mechanical and dimensional standards required for structural, chemical, and hygienic applications.
The 304 grade is one of the most commonly used austenitic stainless steels, containing approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel, offering a balanced combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of fabrication. Its versatility and excellent weldability make it ideal for producing welded pipes and tubes that are used in sectors such as food processing, petrochemical, water treatment, and HVAC systems.
Thanks to its robust performance in both ambient and moderately aggressive environments, SS 304 welded pipes and tubes are considered a cost-effective, reliable solution for applications requiring sanitary finishes, pressure tolerance, and long-term resistance to oxidation and chemical exposure. This makes them a preferred material for engineers, manufacturers, and procurement teams across the globe.
Key Features of SS 304 Welded Pipes & Tubes
Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes and Tubes are renowned for their excellent performance across a wide range of industries due to their superior mechanical and chemical properties. Engineered to meet global standards such as ASTM A312 for pipes and ASTM A249 for tubes, SS 304 welded products offer a unique combination of durability, versatility, and cost-efficiency. Below are the key features that make SS 304 welded pipes and tubes a preferred choice for industrial and commercial applications:
- Excellent Corrosion Resistance: SS 304 welded pipes and tubes exhibit outstanding resistance to corrosion in chemical processing plants, marine environments, and mildly acidic or alkaline conditions. This makes them ideal for applications where exposure to corrosive substances is frequent.
- High Weldability and Formability: The 304 grade stainless steel used in these welded pipes and tubes offers exceptional weldability without the need for post-weld heat treatment. Its excellent formability allows for easy fabrication into complex structures without compromising structural integrity.
- Wide Range of Dimensions and Thicknesses : Available in multiple outer diameters, wall thicknesses, and lengths, SS 304 welded pipes and tubes can be customized to suit various industrial requirements, from lightweight tubing systems to heavy-duty structural frameworks.
- Versatile Application Use : These pipes and tubes are commonly used in structural supports, heat exchanger systems, and mechanical assemblies due to their high tensile strength, thermal stability, and long service life.
By combining these attributes, Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes & Tubes continue to be a top choice for engineers, project consultants, and OEMs seeking reliable performance and compliance with international quality standards.
Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes – Specifications
Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes are manufactured in accordance with ASTM A312 standards, which cover seamless and welded austenitic stainless steel pipes for high-temperature and general corrosive service. These pipes are widely preferred for their excellent corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and dimensional consistency, making them suitable for structural applications, fluid transport, and industrial piping systems.
Specifications of SS 304 Welded Pipes
|
Specification |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Standard |
ASTM A312 / ASME SA312 |
|
Grade |
TP304 |
|
Manufacturing Process |
Welded (ERW / TIG / Laser) |
|
Pipe Type |
Round Welded Pipe |
|
Size Range |
½” NB to 24” NB (Nominal Bore) |
|
Wall Thickness |
SCH 10 to SCH XXS |
|
Outer Diameter (OD) |
21.3 mm to 610 mm |
|
Length |
Single Random, Double Random, or Custom Cut |
|
Surface Finish |
Mill Finish, Pickled, Polished, Bright Annealed |
|
End Type |
Plain End, Beveled End, Threaded End |
|
Tolerance |
As per ASTM A999 |
|
Testing |
Hydrostatic, Eddy Current, PMI, Visual Inspection |
|
Certification |
EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2, NACE MR0175 (on request) |
ASTM A312 TP304 Welded Pipe Dimensions & Sizes
SS 304 welded pipes are available in various diameters and thicknesses to match industry needs in both light and heavy-duty applications.
|
Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) |
Outside Diameter (OD) |
Wall Thickness Range |
Standard Length |
|---|---|---|---|
|
½” |
21.34 mm |
1.65 mm – 3.73 mm |
6.0 – 12.0 meters |
|
1” |
33.40 mm |
2.77 mm – 4.55 mm |
6.0 – 12.0 meters |
|
2” |
60.33 mm |
3.91 mm – 5.54 mm |
6.0 – 12.0 meters |
|
3” |
88.90 mm |
5.49 mm – 7.62 mm |
6.0 – 12.0 meters |
|
4” |
114.30 mm |
6.02 mm – 8.56 mm |
6.0 – 12.0 meters |
|
6” |
168.28 mm |
7.11 mm – 10.97 mm |
6.0 – 12.0 meters |
|
8” |
219.08 mm |
8.18 mm – 12.70 mm |
6.0 – 12.0 meters |
|
10” |
273.05 mm |
9.27 mm – 12.70 mm |
6.0 – 12.0 meters |
|
12” |
323.85 mm |
9.53 mm – 13.49 mm |
6.0 – 12.0 meters |
Schedule & Wall Thickness Chart
|
Schedule |
Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) |
Wall Thickness (mm) |
|---|---|---|
|
SCH 10 |
½” to 12” |
1.65 – 4.78 mm |
|
SCH 20 |
½” to 12” |
2.11 – 5.54 mm |
|
SCH 40 |
½” to 12” |
2.77 – 6.35 mm |
|
SCH 80 |
½” to 12” |
3.73 – 8.18 mm |
|
SCH 120 |
2” to 12” |
6.35 – 12.70 mm |
|
SCH 160 |
3” to 12” |
7.62 – 13.49 mm |
|
SCH XXS |
2” to 12” |
Up to 20 mm |
Thicker walls and custom schedules available on request for high-pressure or specialty use cases.
Stainless Steel 304 Welded Tubes – Specifications
Stainless Steel 304 Welded Tubes, manufactured as per ASTM A249, are engineered for high-performance applications where precision, corrosion resistance, and durability are critical. These tubes are widely used in heat exchangers, condensers, instrumentation systems, and mechanical structures in industries such as petrochemical, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and marine engineering.
As an austenitic grade, SS 304 welded tubes offer excellent formability, consistent weld quality, and a clean internal surface — making them suitable for both sanitary and high-pressure systems. Produced using TIG welding or Laser Beam Welding, these tubes meet stringent quality and dimensional tolerances and are available in a variety of surface finishes and diameters to suit specific industrial needs.
ASTM A249 TP304 Welded Tube Sizes
Stainless steel 304 welded tubes conforming to ASTM A249 are available in both metric and imperial sizes. These tubes are generally thinner than pipes and are defined by their precise outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness, rather than by nominal size.
|
Tube Type |
Outside Diameter (OD) |
Wall Thickness Range |
Length |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Heat Exchanger Tubes |
6.35 mm to 50.8 mm (¼” – 2”) |
0.71 mm to 2.11 mm |
Up to 24 meters (U-bend or straight) |
|
Instrumentation Tubes |
3.00 mm to 25.4 mm |
0.5 mm to 2.0 mm |
Up to 12 meters |
|
Condenser Tubes |
12.7 mm to 38.1 mm |
0.89 mm to 1.65 mm |
Custom lengths |
|
Mechanical Tubes |
19.05 mm to 76.2 mm |
1.24 mm to 3.05 mm |
Up to 6 meters |
Tube sizes can be customized based on application and customer specifications, including for shell-and-tube heat exchangers, U-tube bundles, and coiled systems.
Surface Finish & Tolerances
The surface finish and dimensional tolerances of SS 304 welded tubes play a vital role in ensuring operational efficiency, especially in clean and high-precision environments.
|
Surface Finish |
Description |
Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
|
Annealed & Pickled (AP) |
Descaled finish after heat treatment |
General industrial applications |
|
Bright Annealed (BA) |
Smooth, reflective, mirror-like surface |
Food, pharma, and sanitary applications |
|
Polished (180–600 grit) |
Brushed or mirror polished finishes |
Architectural and decorative use |
|
Mill Finish |
As-welded, untreated surface |
Structural and mechanical tubing |
|
Tolerance Type |
Tolerance Level |
|---|---|
|
OD Tolerance |
±0.05 mm to ±0.1 mm (depending on size) |
|
Wall Thickness Tolerance |
±10% to ±12.5% (as per ASTM A1016/A249) |
|
Length Tolerance |
±6 mm (random) / ±1 mm (cut-to-length) |
|
Ovality |
≤ 3% of OD (max, depending on grade and finish) |
Application-Based Tube Selection Table
|
Application |
Recommended Tube Type |
Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
|
Heat Exchangers |
ASTM A249 TP304 Welded Tubes |
Thin-walled, high thermal conductivity, U-bend capability |
|
Condensers |
Light Gauge Welded Tubes |
Uniform diameter, excellent surface cleanliness |
|
Instrumentation Systems |
Bright Annealed Tubes |
Precise tolerances, ultra-clean surfaces |
|
Mechanical Assemblies |
Mill Finish or Polished Tubes |
High strength, good appearance, weld-ready |
By complying with ASTM A249 standards, maintaining tight dimensional tolerances, and offering multiple surface finishes, Stainless Steel 304 Welded Tubes deliver unmatched performance in environments where hygiene, pressure resistance, and operational efficiency are non-negotiable.
Chemical Composition of SS 304 Welded Pipes & Tubes
The chemical composition of Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes and Tubes plays a crucial role in determining their corrosion resistance, strength, and overall performance in demanding industrial environments. As per international standards such as ASTM A312 (for pipes) and ASTM A249 (for tubes), SS 304 is classified as an austenitic stainless steel alloy. Its balanced composition of chromium and nickel enhances its stability, weldability, and oxidation resistance, making it highly reliable for both structural and pressure-based applications.
All elements are carefully controlled during production to maintain consistency, quality, and compliance with global specifications. Below is the standardized chemical composition of SS 304 welded pipes and tubes:
|
Element |
% Composition (Typical Range) |
|---|---|
|
Carbon (C) |
0.08 max |
|
Chromium (Cr) |
18.0 – 20.0 |
|
Nickel (Ni) |
8.0 – 10.5 |
|
Manganese (Mn) |
2.0 max |
|
Silicon (Si) |
1.0 max |
This well-balanced composition makes SS 304 welded pipes and tubes suitable for a wide range of applications including food processing equipment, chemical containers, heat exchangers, and architectural structures where both form and function are essential.
All materials used in SS 304 welded pipes and tubes are tested and certified as per EN 10204 3.1 or 3.2 documentation standards to meet strict quality assurance protocols and international engineering codes.
Mechanical Properties
Understanding the mechanical properties of Stainless Steel 304 welded pipes and tubes is essential for engineers and fabricators to ensure reliable performance under pressure, temperature variations, and mechanical loading. Manufactured and tested according to international standards (such as ASTM A312 for pipes and ASTM A249 for tubes), SS 304 products undergo rigorous quality checks—including tensile, yield, and hardness testing in certified laboratories—to verify that they meet or exceed their specified values.
Below are the key mechanical properties of SS 304 welded pipes and tubes:
|
Property |
Value |
Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
|
Tensile Strength |
≥ 515 MPa |
ASTM E8 / ISO 6892 |
|
Yield Strength |
≥ 205 MPa |
ASTM E8 / ISO 6892 |
|
Elongation |
≥ 35 % |
ASTM E8 / ISO 6892 |
|
Hardness |
≤ 90 HRB |
ASTM E18 / ISO 6508 |
- Tensile Strength (≥ 515 MPa)
Indicates the maximum stress the material can withstand while being stretched before breaking. SS 304 welded pipes and tubes deliver high strength suitable for pressure-bearing and structural applications. - Yield Strength (≥ 205 MPa)
Defines the stress at which permanent deformation begins. A substantial yield point ensures that SS 304 welded components maintain dimensional stability under operational loads. - Elongation (≥ 35 %)
Represents ductility, or the ability to deform plastically before fracturing. High elongation enables SS 304 welded pipes and tubes to absorb impact stresses and accommodate thermal expansion without cracking. - Hardness (≤ 90 HRB)
Measures resistance to indentation and wear. Controlled hardness levels ensure adequate toughness and machinability, allowing clean welds and smooth finishes.
By adhering to these mechanical benchmarks and testing protocols, Stainless Steel 304 welded pipes and tubes offer predictable, certified performance—making them a trusted choice for critical infrastructures such as petrochemical piping, heat exchanger systems, and architectural frameworks.
Applications of SS 304 Welded Pipes & Tubes
Thanks to their exceptional corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and ease of fabrication, Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes and Tubes are extensively used in diverse industries across both structural and process-based applications. Manufactured in compliance with ASTM A312 (pipes) and ASTM A249 (tubes), they meet strict quality standards, ensuring performance in demanding operating conditions such as high temperature, pressure, and corrosive environments.
SS 304 Welded Pipes Applications
SS 304 welded pipes are primarily used in medium- to high-pressure flow systems and structural applications where both durability and corrosion resistance are critical. With their robust construction and consistent wall thickness, they provide dependable solutions in the following areas:
- Industrial Pipelines: Widely used for transporting fluids, gases, and chemicals in oil & gas, petrochemical, water treatment, and process industries due to their excellent corrosion resistance and strength.
- Structural Fabrication: Utilized in building frameworks, support columns, and load-bearing structures where mechanical integrity and aesthetic appearance are important.
- Exhaust Systems: Applied in automotive and mechanical exhausts for their high-temperature resistance and oxidation stability.
- Construction Equipment: Suitable for scaffolding, brackets, and handrails, especially in coastal or high-humidity environments.
- Sanitary Piping: Common in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries where hygiene and corrosion control are vital.
SS 304 Welded Tubes Applications
SS 304 welded tubes are precision-engineered for applications requiring tight tolerances, smooth surface finishes, and high performance under thermal cycling. Their superior fabrication quality and compatibility with sanitary and heat transfer systems make them ideal for:
- Heat Exchangers: Used extensively in shell and tube configurations, air preheaters, and economizers in power plants, chemical processing, and marine systems due to excellent thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance.
- Condensers: Ideal for condenser tubing in HVAC, refrigeration, and industrial cooling systems, offering longevity and resistance to scaling and fouling.
- Instrumentation Systems: Used in control and measuring equipment in process industries because of their dimensional precision and clean inner surface.
- Pharmaceutical & Dairy Processing: Perfect for hygienic fluid transport systems due to their smooth polished finish and compliance with sanitary standards.
- Decorative & Architectural Uses: Employed in furniture, railings, and façade systems for their aesthetic appeal and resistance to environmental wear.
By catering to a broad range of functional and structural roles, SS 304 welded pipes and tubes continue to be the material of choice for project consultants, design engineers, and procurement professionals across industrial sectors. Their proven performance in both corrosive and high-temperature environments underscores their reputation as a globally trusted stainless steel solution.
Why Choose USA Piping Solution for SS 304 Welded Pipes & Tubes?
At USA Piping Solution, we specialize in supplying high-quality Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes and Tubes that meet global standards such as ASTM A312 and ASTM A249. Our products are backed by Mill Test Certificates (MTC) with EN 10204 3.1/3.2 compliance, ensuring full traceability and material authenticity. With a strong global logistics network, we provide timely delivery to over 50+ countries, catering to EPC contractors, OEMs, and industrial end-users. Our export packaging is seaworthy and secure, guaranteeing that every order—whether standard or customized—reaches you in optimal condition.
Clients choose us for our competitive pricing, consistent quality, and ability to meet custom dimension and surface finish requirements. Whether you need specific OD, wall thickness, or cut-to-length pipes and tubes, we tailor solutions to your exact project needs. Available finishes include annealed, pickled, polished, and bright annealed, depending on the intended application. Our ability to combine technical precision with commercial flexibility makes USA Piping Solution a trusted global partner for reliable and certified stainless steel piping solutions.
Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube Price List
We offer competitive export pricing for Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes and Tubes, ensuring high-quality materials at globally viable rates. Below is the price list in USD to help you estimate your project costs. All products comply with ASTM A312 (pipes) and ASTM A249 (tubes) standards and are available in multiple finishes and lengths.
|
Product |
Size Range |
Price (USD/Kg) |
Price (USD/Meter) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
SS 304 Welded Pipe – SCH 10 |
1” to 4” |
$3.10 – $3.40 |
$9.00 – $15.00 |
|
SS 304 Welded Pipe – SCH 40 |
1” to 6” |
$3.20 – $3.60 |
$10.00 – $18.00 |
|
SS 304 Welded Tube – Polished Finish |
½” to 2” (OD) |
$3.30 – $3.70 |
$8.00 – $14.00 |
|
SS 304 Welded Tube – Bright Annealed |
6mm to 25mm (OD) |
$3.40 – $3.80 |
$8.50 – $15.00 |
|
SS 304 Welded Pipe – Custom Lengths |
Up to 12 meters |
On Request |
On Request |
Note: Prices are indicative and may vary based on order quantity, destination, raw material fluctuations, and finishing requirements. Please contact our export team for a formal quotation tailored to your project.
Related Products
|
Stainless Steel 304l Welded Pipes & Tubes |
FAQs About Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipes & Tubes
What is the best way to weld stainless steel pipe?
The best way to weld stainless steel pipe is by TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding, as it offers precise control, clean welds, and minimal contamination. For thicker sections, MIG welding or stick welding may also be used depending on project requirements.
How long can stainless steel pipe last?
Stainless steel pipes, especially Grade 304, can last 50 years or more under normal conditions. Their lifespan depends on environmental exposure, operating temperatures, and maintenance, with corrosion-resistant performance in both indoor and outdoor systems.
How to join a stainless steel pipe without welding?
Stainless steel pipes can be joined without welding using compression fittings, press-fit connectors, threaded couplings, or grooved-end mechanical joints. These methods are commonly used in plumbing, HVAC, and low-pressure systems for quick, reliable connections.
What is the standard for stainless steel tube?
The most common standards for stainless steel tubes include ASTM A249, ASTM A269, and ASTM A213. These define the manufacturing, testing, and dimensional tolerances for welded and seamless tubes used in heat exchangers, boilers, and general applications. .
Which adhesive is best for joining metals?
Epoxy adhesives, particularly two-part metal epoxies, are ideal for joining stainless steel and other metals. Products like Loctite EA 9460 or Permabond ET536 provide strong, durable bonds for structural and industrial use when welding is not feasible.
How do you bond stainless steel without welding?
Stainless steel can be bonded using industrial adhesives, rivets, or mechanical fasteners. Epoxy-based adhesives or polyurethane formulations are especially effective for bonding in structural and load-bearing applications without heat or deformation.
Considering Other Stainless Steel Options?
While Stainless Steel 304 is incredibly versatile, USA Piping Solutions also offers other stainless grades that might be a better fit for certain specific conditions:
ASTM A213 TP304L Stainless Steel Tubes
This is specifically the low-carbon (L-grade) version of 304 tubing, often required by the A213 standard for boiler/heat exchanger use, particularly important when welding is involved to prevent sensitization and maintain corrosion resistance.
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ASTM A269 TP304 Stainless Steel Tubing
This standard covers seamless and welded tubing for general purposes. It might be used for instrumentation lines, decorative work, or less critical fluid handling compared to A312 pipe or A213 tubes.
Ready to Source Your Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube?
Are you looking for high-quality Stainless Steel 304 Welded Pipe & Tube for your next industrial, architectural, structural, or sanitary project? When you need proven reliability, excellent corrosion resistance, and versatile performance, USA Piping Solutions is your trusted supply partner.
We provide precision-engineered SS 304 Welded Pipes and 304 Stainless Steel Tubing that consistently meet demanding ASTM and ASME specifications. Thanks to our extensive inventory, efficient global delivery network, and commitment to providing full mill test certifications, we are a preferred choice for manufacturers, EPC contractors, fabricators, and distributors across the country and around the world. Get the ASTM A312 TP304 Pipe and tubing you need, delivered reliably.
Request a Quote Today or connect with our stainless steel specialists. We're ready to provide tailored solutions and competitive pricing for your specific project requirements!
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