Looking for carbon steel pipe but overwhelmed by the myriad standards, processes, and price lists?
This 2025 guide breaks down everything you need—from chemical composition, dimensions, and tolerances to practical applications—so you can buy with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
What Exactly Is Carbon Steel Pipe?
Carbon steel pipe is a hollow, cylindrical tube made from iron and >0.12 % carbon.
The higher the carbon content (up to 2 %), the stronger and harder the pipe, perfect for high-pressure services.
| Element | Typical % | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon | 0.06–1.5 % | ↑ Strength, ↓ Ductility |
| Manganese | 0.3–1.6 % | ↑ Hardenability |
| Silicon | 0.1–0.5 % | Deoxidizer |
| Sulfur / Phosphorus | ≤0.05 % | ↓ Toughness |
Large Diameter Steel Pipes Market Size and Share Forecast Outlook (2025 to 2035)
The large diameter steel pipes market is expected to register stable growth between 2025 and 2035, driven by increasing investments in oil & gas infrastructure, expansion of water transportation and irrigation networks, and demand for durable, high-pressure pipeline systems across industrial and municipal sectors.
The market is projected to be valued at USD 13,341.4 million in 2025 and is anticipated to reach USD 17,245.4 million by 2035, reflecting a CAGR of 2.6% over the forecast period.
Key Standards & Grades Explained
| Standard | Grade | Yield Strength | Typical Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASTM A106 | Gr.B | 35 ksi | High-temp steam |
| ASTM A53 | Type E & S | 30 ksi | Water, gas, and fire sprinkler |
| API 5L | B / X52 / X65 | 52–65 ksi | Oil & gas pipeline |
| EN 10216-2 | P265GH | 265 MPa | Boiler & heat-exchanger |
Quick tip: ASTM A106 Gr.B is the most common carbon steel pipe grade for high-temperature service.
Size & Schedule Chart
| Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) | Outside Diameter (OD) | Schedule | Wall Thickness (WT) | Weight per Meter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2″ | 60.3 mm | SCH 40 | 3.91 mm | 5.44 kg |
| 4″ | 114.3 mm | SCH 80 | 8.56 mm | 22.3 kg |
| 6″ | 168.3 mm | SCH 120 | 10.97 mm | 42.6 kg |
Seamless vs Welded Carbon Steel Pipe
| Criteria | Seamless | ERW Welded |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Higher (no seam) | Good |
| Pressure Rating | 20 % higher | Standard |
| Cost | +10–15 % | Base |
| Size Range | 1/2″–24″ | 1/2″–80″ |
Choose seamless for >500 °C or critical service; choose ERW for cost-effective water lines.
2025 Application Spotlights
- Green-Hydrogen Pipelines – Netherlands 1 GW project uses API 5L X65 internally clad with 316L.
- CCUS CO₂ Lines – Canada’s 240 km network ordered 36″ A106 Gr.C with 3-PE coating.
- Desalination Plants – Middle East mega-plants switched to A312 TP316L internally lined carbon steel pipe for cost balance.
2025 Price Matrix
| Grade & Standard | OD × WT mm | USD / m* | USD / t* | Trend vs Jan 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASTM A106 Gr.B | 168.3 × 7.11 (6″ SCH40) | $4.50 | $635 | +3.8 % |
| API 5L X52 PSL2 | 219.1 × 8.18 (8″ SCH40) | $7.20 | $640 | +2.5 % |
| ASTM A53 Gr.B | 60.3 × 3.91 (2″ SCH40) | $1.70 | $625 | +4.1 % |
| Low-Temp A333 Gr.6 | 114.3 × 6.02 (4″ SCH40) | $3.35 | $650 | +5.2 % |
*Prices include anti-dumping tariff buffer for US-bound shipments.
HRC feedstock has fallen 12 % since April 2025, but energy surcharges keep pipe prices firm.
How to Choose a Reliable Supplier (Checklist)
✔ Mill test certificates (MTC) EN 10204 3.1
✔ Hydrostatic test 100 % or 5 MPa above service pressure
✔ OD & WT tolerance ≤ ±0.5 %
✔ Third-party inspection (SGS, BV, Lloyd’s)
✔ Stock ≥ 5,000 tons for fast delivery
At Shandong Jiuyang, we tick every box.
[Get 15-Second Quote]
FAQ
Is seamless pipe still worth the premium in 2025?
Yes—if design temp > 400 °C or cyclic loading, price gap narrowed to 8 %.
How do I avoid anti-dumping duty to the US?
Source from Malaysia or Mexico with an origin certificate; duty-free until 2027 review.
