Stainless steel pipes are long, hollow tubes that are used for a variety of purposes. They are produced by two distinct methods which result in either a welded or seamless pipe. In both methods, raw steel is first cast into a more workable starting form. It is then made into a pipe by stretching the steel out into a seamless tube or forcing the edges together and sealing them with a weld. The first methods for producing steel pipe were introduced in the early 1800s, and they have steadily evolved into the modern processes we use today. Each year, millions of tons of steel pipe are produced. Its versatility makes it the most often used product produced by the steel industry.

There are two types of stainless steel pipe, one is seamless and another has a single welded seam along its length. Both have different uses. Seamless tubes are typically more light weight, and have thinner walls. They are used for bicycles and transporting liquids. Seamed tubes are heavier and more rigid. The have a better consistency and are typically straighter. They are used for things such as gas transportation, electrical conduit and plumbing. Typically, they are used in instances when the pipe is not put under a high degree of stress.

Certain pipe characteristics can be controlled during production. For example, the diameter of the pipe is often modified depending how it will be used. The diameter can range from tiny pipes used to make hypodermic needles, to large pipes used to transport gas throughout a city. The wall thickness of the pipe can also be controlled. Often the type of steel will also have an impact on pipe's the strength and flexibility. Other controllable characteristics include length, coating material, and end finish.

Production process of stainless steel seamless pipe: a.preparation of round steel; b.heating; c.hot rolling and piercing; d.cutting end; e.pickling; f.grinding; g.lubrication; h.cold rolling; i.degreasing; j.solution heat treatment; k.straightening; l.pipe cutting; m.pickling; n.finished product inspection.

Production process of stainless steel welded pipe:

Decorative welded pipe: a.raw materials; b.slitting; c.welding and pipe making; d.end trimming; e.polishing; f.inspection (spray printing); g.packaging; h.shipment (warehousing).

Welded pipe for industrial piping: a.raw materials; b.slitting; c.welding and pipe making; d.heat treatment; e.correction; f.straightening; g.end trimming; h.acid pickling; i.water pressure test; j.Inspection (spray printing); k.packaging; l.delivery (warehousing).