What is ERW Steel Pipe? | The Supply Chain Xchange

ERW steel pipes, also known as Electric Resistance Welded pipes, are formed through the process of welding steel plates together, resulting in pipes that are typically cylindrical in shape and feature longitudinal welds. This manufacturing method employs either low-frequency or high-frequency resistance to create the weld at the seam. These pipes are primarily utilized for transporting vapor-liquid substances such as oil and natural gas, and they are capable of accommodating various pressure requirements, making them a crucial component in global transport pipelines.

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During the welding process of ERW pipes, current passes through the contact surfaces where the edges of the steel meet, generating significant heat. This heat raises the temperature of the steel's edges to a level where they can bond seamlessly. The combined pressure applied during this process causes the molten edges to fuse together, forming a strong and durable weld. Typically, the outer diameter (OD) of ERW pipes reaches up to 24 inches (609 mm); pipes requiring larger dimensions will typically be manufactured using the Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) method.

Numerous pipe standards can be produced utilizing the ERW process. Below are some commonly recognized specifications for pipelines.

• Carbon steel pipes in ERW include:
  - ASTM A53 Grade A and B (and Galvanized)
  - ASTM A252 for pile pipes
  - ASTM A500 structural tubing
  - ASTM A134 and ASTM A135 pipes
  - EN S275, S355 pipes
• Standards and specifications for stainless steel ERW pipes:
  - ASTM A269 stainless pipe
  - ASTM A270 sanitary tubing
  - ASTM A312 stainless pipe
  - ASTM A790 ferritic/austenitic/duplex stainless pipe
• API ERW line pipes:
  - API 5L B to X70 PSL1 (PSL2 is typically produced using HFW)
  - API 5CT J55/K55, N80 casing and tubing

The applications and usage of ERW steel pipes are diverse, primarily involving the transportation of fluids, including gas and liquids, such as oil and natural gas. They meet both low and high-pressure requirements, and advancements in ERW technology have led to their increasing use in sectors such as the oil and gas industries as well as in automotive manufacturing.

Some advantages of ERW pipes include high production efficiency, cost-effectiveness, minimal material wastage, and the ease of automating the manufacturing process. As a result, ERW pipes are a widely chosen option in various industrial applications.

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