Choosing the right pipe material affects safety, service life and cost. The three metal pipes most often used on industrial and building projects in Malaysia are carbon steel, stainless steel and galvanised iron (GI). Here is how they compare.
Carbon steel pipe
Carbon steel is strong, easy to weld and cost-effective. It is widely used for:
- Oil, gas and fuel lines
- Steam and hot water systems
- Fire protection mains
- Process and utility piping in plants
Its main weakness is corrosion. Carbon steel needs a protective coating or paint system, and buried lines need wrapping or other corrosion protection.
Stainless steel pipe
Stainless steel resists corrosion and keeps a clean surface, which makes it the choice for:
- Food, beverage and pharmaceutical plants
- Chemical and corrosive services
- Coastal and marine environments
- Hygienic and high-purity water systems
Grade 304 suits most general uses. Grade 316 contains molybdenum and resists chlorides better, so it is preferred near the sea or with salty or chemical fluids. Stainless steel costs more and needs skilled welders and correct procedures.
Galvanised iron (GI) pipe
GI pipe is carbon steel with a zinc coating that protects it from rust. It is commonly used for:
- Cold water supply lines
- Some fire services and sprinkler systems
- Handrails, fencing and light structural work
GI is usually joined with threaded fittings or grooved couplings, because welding burns off the zinc coating at the joint. If GI must be welded, the damaged area needs to be repaired with a zinc-rich coating.
Side-by-side comparison
| Carbon steel | Stainless steel | GI | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrosion resistance | Low without coating | High | Moderate |
| Typical joining | Welding, flanges | Welding, flanges | Threaded, grooved |
| Relative cost | Low | High | Low to moderate |
| Common uses | Oil, gas, steam, fire mains | Food, chemical, marine | Water supply, fire services |
Other things to specify
- Pipe size and wall thickness. Wall thickness is usually given as a schedule, such as SCH 40 or SCH 80. Thicker walls handle higher pressures.
- Pressure and temperature. Tell your fabricator the design pressure and temperature of the line.
- Standards. Your engineer or client may specify material standards and fabrication codes.
- Testing. Ask whether hydrostatic testing or weld inspection is required before handover.
If you are unsure which material suits your line, share the fluid, pressure, temperature and location with your fabricator. Our steel fabrication quote checklist lists what to prepare. See our fabrication services or send us your requirements.
Serving Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Johor
A4 Petroleum provides steel and pipe fabrication with on-site installation in Kuala Lumpur (KL), Selangor, Johor and across Malaysia. Send your drawings and quantities, or WhatsApp +60 12-886 6025 for a quote.