In the metal industry, there is a wide range of applications that are ideal for the wide variety of shapes and types of alloys. However, there are two materials that are extremely useful for the vast majority of projects due to their characteristics and resistance to the different climates that exist on our planet, we are talking about stainless steel and copper.
Why use stainless steel or copper in industrial applications?
The stainless steel and copper are high-quality options with outstanding durability for indoor or outdoor use. The similarities between these two metals outweigh the differences. Which metal should I use for my projects or plans? Which of these metals stands out in its use for pipes?
The process and service pipes are two of the most common varieties for this application. Within a manufacturing plant, the liquid is transferred through process pipes between various processing units and storage tanks. However, service calls transport water, air, steam, and other elements for processing. For industrial purposes, some common pipe materials are:
Carbon steel, due to its hardness and resistance
Stainless steel used for its great resistance
A variety of plastics including polyvinyl chloride, cellulose acetate butyrate and polyethylene
Iron and Copper, either through cast iron or ductile iron
Some applications use Glass for their pipes
The copper and stainless steel have become popular options for industrial pipes. As a result, research into the two metals is necessary to gather information about their different properties and characteristics to select the right one to meet the needs within a plant, industrial area, or offices.
Main differences between the pipes of these metals
Both options are widely used metals for industrial pipes; this is because they have very useful properties and characteristics for manufacturing this type of element.
The pipes that are made of pure or almost pure copper can be found in two main varieties, which are drawn or annealed. Brazing fittings and flared are common methods for joining the smooth ends of copper pipe.
It is also possible to fit by pressure without the need for welding or any other form of assembly that requires a lot of heat or labor. Therefore, it is easy to handle, perfectly fulfills the objective and does not represent a major expense, which represents a wide variety of advantages for any company.
The stainless steel, on the other hand, is a general term for a group of metals and alloys with percentages of chromium ranging from 12 to 30%, which offers protection when the localized concentration is above 12%. Despite their similarities, stainless steel and copper have important distinctive characteristics that we will mention below.
Characteristics that define each metal
Corrosion resistant materials
The ability of pipe systems to resist the corrosive effects of the liquid passing through them and external corrosive forces is known as corrosion resistance. Depending on the circumstances, corrosion can be widespread or confined to a specific area.
The passive layer of chromium oxide that forms on the surface of stainless steel pipes allows them to resist corrosion in an extraordinary way. It is effective in preventing stress corrosion cracking caused by chloride.
Giving it a great point in favor of carrying out industrial pipe installations with this material, as they are safer for workers and people who are in a certain area.
Carbon dioxide and sulfur, along with hydrogen sulfide, accelerate the corrosion of copper pipes. The copper pipe inside can corrode if subjected to acidic environments. This can trigger cases of copper poisoning and water discoloration in the system.
Calculation of water flow rates
Several factors, including the size and roughness of the pipe, can affect the water flow rate through the system. Water and other liquids flow at a slower speed through copper pipes than through stainless steel pipes. This is due to the smoother interior offered by a material like the latter alloy.
The stainless steel pipe, on the other hand, can handle larger volumes of liquid without compromising its structural integrity through corrosion.
Tensile strength
The stainless steel is significantly more durable than copper; in addition, it can withstand greater tension without bending or breaking. The copper pipes are prone to cracking and leaking due to the inherent brittleness of the material.
Easy to install
As a result, copper is a much more flexible and soft metal. The ability to bend into different shapes makes it ideal for pipes because fewer fittings and fasteners are required.
In addition, the copper pipes are perfect for permanent installations due to their rigidity and lightweight. The prices of this material tend to fluctuate more than the prices of stainless steel, so a cost-benefit analysis should be considered during the planning of the installation of a system of either of these materials.
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