What Is Schedule 40 Steel Pipe?

Pipe Schedule 40 is one of the most commonly used steel pipes. It’s not just a specification. It’s critical industrial information. Schedule 40 has many applications in steel pipe production and related fields.

Whether you’re looking for durable piping solutions, increased efficiency, or lower costs, this article will provide key information about Pipe Schedule 40.

This aids in making a well-informed decision regarding the appropriate piping materials, ensuring a seamless project.

What Is A Pipe Schedule?

A pipe schedule measures the standard wall thickness of a pipe. It applies to various industries, including plumbing, construction, and manufacturing. It is a standardized system that helps ensure the compatibility and safety of pipes in different applications.

Why is it called Schedule 40 pipe?

Schedule 40 pipes are the most commonly used, and they are named as such due to their standardization and popularity. The term “Schedule 40” for pipes comes from historical standards used in the United States.

The “Schedule” in Schedule 40 pipes refers to the wall thickness of the pipe, and the number 40 specifically indicates the wall thickness relative to the pipe’s nominal size.

Grades of Schedule 40 steel pipe

Schedule 40 steel pipe is typically available in various steel grades, each designed for specific applications and requirements. Here are some common steel grades used for Schedule 40 steel pipe:

• A53 Grade B: This is a common choice for general-purpose applications like plumbing and low-pressure fluid transport. A53 Grade B has a minimum tensile strength of 60,000 psi.
• API 5L Grade B: API 5L is commonly used for transporting natural gas and petroleum products. It boasts a minimum yield strength of 35,000 psi and a minimum tensile strength of 60,000 psi.
• A106 Grade B: A106 is used for high-temperature service and is commonly used in oil and gas applications. It has a minimum tensile strength of 60,000 psi.
• A333 Grade 6 is specially formulated for use in low-temperature service, making it appropriate for cryogenic applications. Its minimum tensile strength is 60,000 psi.

These are some commonly used steel grades for Schedule 40 steel pipes. It’s important to consult with a knowledgeable supplier or engineer to select the appropriate steel grade for your specific needs.

Schedule 40 Steel Pipe Sizes

Schedule 40 pipe dimensions are usually expressed in inches, including the outside diameter (OD) and the inside diameter (ID).

Note that Schedule 40 pipe is characterized by its relatively thick walls. Wall thickness is the difference between the inner and outer diameter of the pipe. It determines the strength of the pipe and the pressure it can withstand. Typically, wall thickness is part of the Schedule 40 pipe size, but is not explicitly represented in the size designation.

The most common is 4-inch Schedule 40 steel pipe. The outer diameter is 4.5 inches (approximately 114.3 mm), while the wall thickness is 0.237 inches (approximately 6.02 mm) per Schedule 40 standards.

Schedule 40 Steel Pipe Weight

The weight of Schedule 40 steel pipe depends on the dimensions of the pipe (outer diameter and wall thickness) and the density of the steel. Below are weight estimates per foot (1 foot = 12 inches) for some common Schedule 40 steel pipe sizes.

These values are based on standard Schedule 40 steel pipe, which has a steel density of approximately 0.2836 pounds per cubic inch. To calculate the exact weight of a specific size and length of pipe, you can use the following formula:

Pipe Weight (lbs/ft) = [π/4 x (OD^2 – ID^2)] x Steel Density

In this formula, the outside and inside diameters are expressed in inches, the steel density is 0.2836 pounds per cubic inch, and π is pi, which is approximately 3.14159. Using this formula, you can calculate the exact weight per foot of any Schedule 40 steel pipe size.

Chemical composition of Schedule 40 steel pipe

The chemical composition of Schedule 40 steel pipe generally depends on the specific type of steel used and the manufacturing standards. Generally speaking, the chemical composition of steel pipes includes the following main elements:

• Carbon (C): Carbon is one of the main alloying elements in steel, and its content is usually between 0.02% and 2.1%. The amount of carbon affects the hardness and strength of steel.
• Silicon (Si): Silicon helps improve steel’s strength and wear resistance. Silicon content usually ranges from 0.2% to 2.1%.
• Manganese (Mn): Manganese is also used to increase the strength of steel and reduce brittleness during cold working. Its content usually ranges from 0.3% to 1.5%.
• Phosphorus (P): The phosphorus content of steel is usually less than 0.04% because a high phosphorus content may cause it to become brittle.
• Sulfur (S): The sulfur content is usually less than 0.05%, because high sulfur content may reduce the processing properties of steel.
• Chromium (Cr): The addition of chromium can improve the corrosion resistance of steel, which is important in some special applications. The chromium content is usually less than 0.1%.
• Nickel (Ni): The addition of nickel can also improve the corrosion resistance of steel and its cold-working properties. The nickel content is usually less than 0.1%.
• Copper (Cu): The copper content is usually less than 0.4%. One benefit of copper is that it enhances corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity.
• Other alloying elements: In some special applications, other alloying elements, such as molybdenum, vanadium, titanium, etc., can also be added to meet specific performance requirements.

Before purchasing steel pipe, it is a good idea to review the detailed specification sheet provided by the manufacturer. Schedule 40 steel pipe is typically manufactured to ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) or other international standards, which contain detailed chemical composition regulations.

Sch 40 steel pipe applications

Schedule 40 steel pipe has a wide range of applications in industry and construction due to its thicker wall thickness and moderate strength. Here are some common applications for Schedule 40 steel pipe:

• Water pipes: These include residential, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities.
• Drainage systems: These pipes are also used in drainage systems, including stormwater drainage, wastewater drainage, and sewage treatment.
• Heating and Cooling Systems: Schedule 40 steel pipes to transport hot water, steam, and coolant.
• Gas Transmission: These pipelines can transport natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), industrial gases, and other gases.
• Industrial Applications: They convey chemicals, oils, air, and other fluids. They are also used for supporting structures, decks, and pipe frames.
• Fire Protection Systems: Schedule 40 steel pipe is commonly used in fire protection systems, including sprinkler systems and fire hoses.
• Cooling towers and heating plants: These pipes circulate coolant or hot water in cooling towers and heating plants.
• Chemical Plants: Chemical plants move various chemicals and liquids, and Schedule 40 steel pipe is also used in these applications.

Schedule 40 steel pipe prices

The price of Schedule 40 steel pipe is affected by various factors, such as the size and length of the pipe, the type of steel, geographical location, etc. If you purchase large quantities of steel pipes, please send them directly from UNIASEN steel pipe suppliers. Your expenses will be considerably less compared to those of alternative suppliers.

If you want to wholesale steel pipes or know more about steel pipes, please continue to browse the article or contact us directly.

The difference between Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 pipes

The distinction between Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 pipes lies in their varying wall thicknesses.

Schedule 40 pipe possesses walls of lesser thickness compared to Schedule 80 pipe.
Hence, Schedule 80 pipe is better suited for applications involving high pressure and elevated temperatures.

However, the cost of Schedule 80 pipes is higher than that of Schedule 40 specifications.

Please contact us directly for more information on steel pipes and product types.