What is a Galvanized Pipe?
Galvanized pipe is a steel pipe that has been coated with a layer of zinc to prevent corrosion and rusting. The galvanization process provides a strong, long-lasting protective barrier, making galvanized pipes ideal for outdoor and industrial applications.
Galvanized steel pipes are commonly used in water supply systems, fencing, scaffolding, structural frameworks, HVAC, and construction due to their strength, durability, and corrosion resistance.
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Technical Specifications of Galvanized Pipe
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Galvanized Steel Pipe |
| Material | Q195, Q235, Q345, ST37, ST52, A53, A106, etc. |
| Standard | ASTM A53 / A500 / A252 / BS1387 / EN10240 / JIS G3444 / IS1239 |
| Manufacturing Process | Hot-Dip Galvanized (HDG) / Pre-Galvanized |
| Outer Diameter (OD) | 1/2” to 12” (21.3 mm – 323.9 mm) |
| Wall Thickness | SCH 10 / SCH 20 / SCH 40 / SCH 80 / SCH 160 / Custom |
| Length | 6 meters (standard) / Custom cut-to-length available |
| Zinc Coating Thickness | 40g/m² – 600g/m² (Typically 120g/m²–275g/m²) |
| Surface Finish | Regular spangle / Zero spangle / Oiled / Dry / Passivated |
| End Connection Type | Plain End / Beveled End / Threaded with Coupling / Grooved End |
| Tolerance | ±0.5% OD, ±10% WT (per ASTM/EN standards) |
| Pressure Rating | Based on SCH and diameter; consult chart or request custom data |
| Welding Method | ERW (Electric Resistance Welded) / Seamless |
| Applications | Water systems, scaffolding, fencing, fire piping, structural engineering |
| Packing | Bundled with steel strips, plastic caps on both ends, optional wrapping |
| Certificate Available | MTC, ISO 9001, CE, SGS, BV, etc. |
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Product Packaging
Adopting a professional industrial packaging solution that is moisture-proof and scratch resistant, each batch of steel is tied and fixed with customized wooden frames/steel strips, combined with anti rust coatings and cushioning pads to ensure zero damage during transportation. Clear product model, batch number, and storage identification on the outer packaging, supporting customized enterprise logos and information labels. Environmentally friendly and recyclable packaging materials practice green concepts, reducing transportation and disassembly costs.
Available Sizes and Standards
Outer Diameter (OD)
From 1/2 inch to 12 inches (or larger)
Custom sizes available upon request
Wall Thickness (Schedule)
| Schedule | Description |
|---|---|
| SCH 10 | Light wall |
| SCH 40 | Standard wall |
| SCH 80 | Thick wall |
| SCH 160 | Extra heavy wall |
Length
Standard: 6 meters (20 feet)
Optional: Custom lengths cut to specification
Common Standards
| Standard | Region | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ASTM A53 | USA | Standard for pipe, steel, black and hot-dipped, zinc-coated |
| BS 1387 | UK | Specification for screwed and socketed steel pipes |
| EN 10240 | EU | Coating of steel pipes and fittings with zinc |
| JIS G3442 | Japan | Zinc-coated steel pipes for water services |
| IS 1239 / IS 3589 | India | Steel tubes for structural and water conveying use |
Surface Finish Options
Regular Spangle
Minimized Spangle
Zero Spangle
Smooth Coated
Dry or Oiled Surface
Types of Galvanized Pipe
1. Galvanized Seamless Pipe
Made without a weld seam
Suitable for high-pressure and high-temperature applications
2. Galvanized Welded Pipe
Made by welding pre-galvanized or hot-dipped steel
Common in construction and fencing
Benefits of Using Galvanized Pipe
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Corrosion Protection | Zinc layer shields the steel from moisture and rust |
| Extended Service Life | Up to 50 years in non-aggressive environments |
| Low Maintenance | No frequent repainting or coatings needed |
| Ready to Use | Pre-coated, no post-fabrication treatment required |
| Cost-Effective | Lower lifecycle cost compared to painting or stainless steel |
| Robust & Durable | Withstands physical stress and harsh conditions |
| Versatile | Suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments |
Galvanized Pipe vs. Other Pipe Types
| Property | Galvanized Pipe | Black Steel Pipe | Stainless Steel Pipe | PVC Pipe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | Moderate to high | Low | Very high | Moderate |
| Strength | High | High | High | Low |
| Cost | Moderate | Low | High | Low |
| Weight | Heavy | Heavy | Medium | Light |
| Lifespan | 20–50 years | 5–10 years | 50+ years | 10–20 years |
| Best Use | Outdoor, structural, plumbing | Gas lines, welding | Sanitary, marine, chemical | Residential plumbing, drainage |
Applications of Galvanized Pipe
Galvanized pipes are highly versatile and can be found in various industrial, commercial, and residential settings.
Construction & Structural Use
Steel frameworks
Scaffolding
Fencing posts
Temporary shelters
Water & Plumbing
Cold water distribution systems
Agricultural irrigation
Rural water supply
Industrial Applications
HVAC piping
Compressed air lines
Oil and gas processing (non-corrosive)
Outdoor Infrastructure
Road sign supports
Railings and guardrails
Poles and lighting columns
Gas Supply
- Galvanized pipes are suitable for gas lines due to their ability to withstand high pressure and resist corrosion.
- They are used in both industrial and residential gas supply systems.
How Is Galvanized Pipe Made?
Galvanized pipes are produced through two main processes:
1. Hot-Dip Galvanizing (HDG)
In this method, the steel pipe is immersed in molten zinc at a temperature of around 450°C (842°F). The zinc reacts with the steel to form a series of zinc-iron alloy layers, creating a thick, durable coating.
Advantages:
Thicker zinc coating
Longer lifespan (up to 50 years outdoors)
Better suited for harsh and corrosive environments
2. Pre-Galvanizing (Mill-Galvanizing)
This involves galvanizing the steel sheet or coil before it is formed into a pipe. The pre-galvanized pipe usually has a thinner coating than hot-dip galvanized pipe.
Advantages:
Lower cost
Uniform surface
Suitable for indoor or light-duty outdoor use
Storage and Handling Tips
To maintain the quality and longevity of galvanized pipes:
Store in dry, well-ventilated areas
Stack properly to prevent warping
Avoid direct contact with aggressive chemicals or moisture
Use protective gloves during handling to avoid scratching the zinc coating
How to Choose the Right Galvanized Pipe?
Determine application – Structural, plumbing, fencing, or industrial
Choose the right size & wall thickness – Based on pressure, flow rate, or load-bearing needs
Select seamless or welded – Seamless for pressure systems, welded for cost efficiency
Decide on coating type – Hot-dip for outdoor use; pre-galvanized for indoors
Ensure compliance with standards – ASTM, EN, JIS, etc.
Check supplier credentials – ISO certification, material test reports, customization options
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does galvanized pipe last?
Galvanized pipe can last 20 to 50 years, depending on the environment, thickness of the zinc coating, and usage.
Q2: Can I use galvanized pipe for drinking water?
In modern plumbing, galvanized pipe is not recommended for potable water due to the potential leaching of zinc and lead over time. PEX, copper, or stainless steel are preferred alternatives.
Q3: Is galvanized pipe rust-proof?
Galvanized pipe is rust-resistant, not completely rust-proof. It performs well in most environments but can corrode over time, especially in salty or acidic conditions.
Q4: What is the difference between galvanized and black pipe?
Black pipe has no coating and is used primarily for gas lines. Galvanized pipe has a zinc coating and is used for water and outdoor structural purposes.
Q5: Can galvanized pipe be welded?
Yes, but welding galvanized steel requires special precautions. Zinc fumes released during welding are hazardous and require proper ventilation or removal of coating prior to welding.
Why Global Clients Choose Us?
Henan Gengfei Industrial Co., Ltd. is China’s leading supplier of steel and other metal products. Our company is dedicated to providing its customers with the quick quotes, superior quality products, competitive prices and fastest possible deliveries.
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