What’s the Difference Between Perforated Metal Tube and Perforated Metal Pipes?

One of the most frequent questions we get from customers is "What's the difference between perforated metal pipe and perforated metal tube?"

Here, I am pleased to discussed some of the main differences between the two.

Shape Difference

The biggest difference between perforated metal tube and perforated metal pipes is their shape. Perforated metal pipes are always round, while the perforated metal tube can be round, square, rectangular or other customized shapes.

The difference between tube and round pipe can be a little trickier. Althrough they can appear identical at a quick glance, their dimensions are quite different.

Pips always transfer liquid or gas, and are constructed to withstand high pressure. Tubes are on the other hand are used in structural applications, such as trailer frame or patio furniture.

Different Outside Diameter Perforated Metal Tube

Measurements Difference

When they come into measurement, pipes are generally measured by the inside diameter, also called the normally diameter, and a "schedule", which refers to the wall thickness.

Tubes measurements, on the other hand, are always measured by the outside diameter, and the wall thickness, usually measure by inches or normally diameter, and a "schedule".

There is a couple of easy way to remember the this. Pipe have a "I" in the word as does the term "ID" referring to the inside diameter. And the other tip would be if the “schedule” is used it will be a pipe.

Perforated metal pipe for oil industry

Manufacturing Difference

For perforated metal tube, usually firstly punching, and then rolling and welding the perforated sheet into a tube, and also can be made by laser cutting or drilling.

While, to make the perforated pipe, we make it by laser cutting or drilling holes directly, in order to keep it with withstand high pressure.

Drilling Holes on Metal Pipe

Other difference

Tube typically have tighter tolerance on the dimensions. The outside diameter of normal tube will never change, but the inside diameter does. Below 3 inch diameter pipe, the outside diameter are weird sizes.

I hope this has helped you understand the difference between the perforated metal tube and pipe. To purchase perforated tube, perforated pipes, or other perforated metals please view our pages and contact us.