Advantages and Disadvantages of Mild Steel Pipe

What is Mild Steel Pipe?

Mild steel pipe ( MS pipe full form ), made from low carbon steel, is a type of carbon steel pipe. The chemical composition of MS pipe is carbon, silicon, manganese, phosphorus, and sulfur. It is used for various applications, including structural, mechanical, and fluid transport. Mild steel pipe can be manufactured as either seamless or welded to meet the needs of different pressure ratings and operating environments.

Common MS Pipe Standards

The standards applicable to MS pipe vary worldwide, depending on the specific application, region, and other factors. The following are some examples of commonly used MS pipe standards:

1. Indian Standards

IS 1239, IS 161, IS 3589, IS 4270, IS 1978, IS 3601, etc., apply to mild steel pipe for general use, pressure piping, and structural applications.

2. American Standards

ASTM A53, ASTM A135, ASTM A795, ASTM A523, etc., apply to carbon steel pipe for liquid and gas transport and fire protection.

3. British Standards

BS 1387, BS 3601, BS 6323, etc., apply to threaded pipes and structural steel pipes.

4. European Standards

EN 10255, EN 10219, EN 10217, EN 10296, etc., apply to non-alloy steel structural pipes, pressure pipes, and welded steel pipes.

5. Japanese Standards

JIS G 3444, JIS G 3452, JIS G 3454, JIS G 3455, etc., apply to structural, general piping, and pressure steel pipes.

6. Australian Standards

AS 1074, AS 1163, AS 1450, etc., apply to low-carbon steel pipes for piping and structural purposes.

These standards cover various aspects of MS pipes, such as dimensions, weight, chemical composition, mechanical properties, and testing procedures. The specific standard adopted depends on a variety of factors, such as the intended use, the specific requirements of the project or industry, and regulations in the region where the pipe will be used.

Advantages of MS Pipe

1. Good Ductility

MS pipe is easily bent into any shape and can be used in manufacturing.

Compared to other steel pipes, mild steel pipe is easier to form into various shapes.

Compared to high-carbon steel or alloy steel, its elongation can reach 20%-25%, resulting in superior processability.

2. Cost-Effectiveness

The production cost of mild steel pipe is much lower than that of other steel pipes, such as galvanized steel pipe.

This lower production cost is due to its low carbon content, while other steel pipes have a higher carbon content and, therefore, a higher production cost.

3. High Pressure Resistance

Seamless MS pipe is made by forming steel plate into a round shape (called a "billet"), then heating and rolling it until it reaches the desired pipe size.

This type of pipe is more expensive, but it is stronger and can withstand very high fluid and gas pressures, making it widely used in many industries.

4. Reusability

MS pipe can be reused as scrap. Scrap can be processed through various methods to extract pure steel, reducing the cost and effort of steel mining.

5. High Weldability

Because MS pipe contains low carbon content (generally less than 0.25%), it does not produce a significant hardened structure during welding, making it easy to weld with other carbon steel pipes and products.

Disadvantages of MS Pipe

1. Susceptibility to Rust and Corrosion

Due to its lack of a protective coating, MS pipe is more susceptible to rust and corrosion than other pipes (such as GI pipe).

Therefore, a protective coating is required on the outer surface of MS pipe to reduce the likelihood of rust and corrosion.

2. Maintenance

Because MS pipe is more susceptible to rust and corrosion, it requires more frequent replacement, resulting in higher maintenance costs in locations where MS pipe is used.

3. Reaction with Water

Mild carbon steel pipe reacts with water, which is harmful to human health and therefore cannot be used in drinking water supply pipes.

4. Tensile Strength

The tensile strength of mild steel is typically between 330–410 MPa, lower than that of alloy steel (>600 MPa). Mild steel pipes are also less rigid, meaning they tend to fracture under low stress.

Applications of Mild Steel Pipes

1. Fire Protection Systems

Mild steel pipes are used in fire protection systems to transport water to fire hydrants and automatic sprinkler systems.

2. HVAC Systems

Mild steel pipes are used to transport air and hot and cold water in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

3. Piping Applications

Mild steel pipes are used in piping systems for transporting water and waste.

4. Structural Applications

Mild steel pipes are commonly used for structural support, such as building frames, bridges, and buildings.

5. Mechanical Applications

Mild steel pipes are used in a variety of mechanical applications, such as pipes transporting liquids and gases.

6. Automotive Applications

Mild steel pipes have a variety of uses in the automotive industry, such as exhaust systems.

7. Agricultural Applications

Mild-carbon steel pipes are used for agricultural irrigation and drainage.

FAQ

1. What is The Lifespan of MS Pipes?

Untreated MS pipes have a lifespan of approximately 5–10 years in humid environments.

If treated with hot-dip galvanizing, epoxy coating, or internal lining, the lifespan can be extended to over 25 years.

2. Can MS Pipes Be Used in Drinking Water Systems?

Not recommended.

Since MS pipes easily react with oxygen in water and rust, affecting water quality, they are not suitable for drinking water piping.

Galvanized or stainless steel pipes should be preferred for drinking water systems.