comparing ERW vs Seamless pipes in firefighting applications

#Firefighting systems rely on a network of pipes to transport water and other fire suppression agents to the point of origin. The selection of the appropriate pipe material is crucial for the proper functioning and longevity of the system. Two of the most common types of pipes used in firefighting applications are Electric Resistance Welded (#ERW) pipes and #Seamless pipes. In this article, we will compare and contrast the two types of pipes in terms of their manufacturing process, strength, durability, and suitability for #firefighting applications.

ERW pipes are manufactured by rolling a steel coil and welding the edges together to form a pipe shape. The welding process creates a seam on the exterior of the pipe, which can be a potential weak point. ERW pipes are typically made from carbon steel, which is strong and durable but can be susceptible to corrosion over time. The strength and durability of ERW pipes make them suitable for low-pressure firefighting systems, such as residential and small commercial buildings.

Seamless pipes, on the other hand, are manufactured by piercing a round steel billet and then stretching it to create a pipe shape without any seams. The lack of a seam makes them stronger and more durable than ERW pipes. Seamless pipes are typically made from stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion and has a longer lifespan than carbon steel. The strength and durability of Seamless pipes make them suitable for high-pressure firefighting systems, such as large #commercial and #industrial buildings.

In terms of #suitability for firefighting applications, ERW pipes are suitable for low-pressure systems, while seamless pipes are suitable for high-pressure systems. Due to the lack of a seam, seamless pipes have a higher pressure rating and are less likely to leak or burst under high pressure. Additionally, the seamless pipes are less likely to corrode, thus providing a longer lifespan.

#NFPA 13 "Standard for the Installation of #Sprinkler Systems" and NFPA 14 "Standard for the Installation of #Standpipe and Hose Systems" both provide guidelines for the selection of pipe material for fire protection systems, including Electric Resistance Welded (ERW) pipes and Seamless pipes.

In NFPA 13, section 8.5.2 specifies that pipe material for sprinkler systems shall be steel, Schedule 40 or Schedule 80, conforming to ASTM A53, ASTM A135, or ASTM A795. This standard includes both ERW and seamless pipe materials.

In NFPA 14, section 8.4.2 specifies that pipe material for standpipe systems shall be steel, conforming to ASTM A53, ASTM A106, ASTM A135, or ASTM A795. This standard also includes both ERW and seamless pipe materials.

In addition to these two standards, NFPA 24 "Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances" provides guidelines for the selection of pipe material for private fire service mains and their appurtenances.

There are several limitations to using Electric Resistance Welded (ERW) pipes in fire protection systems:

• Strength: The welding process used to manufacture ERW pipes creates a seam on the exterior of the pipe, which can be a potential weak point. This can make ERW pipes less suitable for high-pressure fire protection systems, as they are more likely to leak or burst under high pressure.
• Durability: ERW pipes are typically made from carbon steel, which is strong and durable but can be susceptible to corrosion over time. This can shorten the lifespan of ERW pipes and may require more frequent replacement and maintenance.
• Leakage: As the welding process may not be perfect in all cases, there is a higher risk of leakage in ERW pipes as compared to seamless pipes.
• Cost: Seamless pipes are generally more expensive than ERW pipes, which can be a limitation for projects with tight budgets.
• Pressure Rating: Due to the presence of a seam, ERW pipes generally have a lower pressure rating than seamless pipes, which limits their use in high-pressure fire protection systems.

In conclusion, ERW (Electric Resistance Welded) and Seamless pipes are commonly used in fire protection systems. ERW pipes are manufactured by rolling a steel coil and welding the edges together to form a pipe shape, while Seamless pipes are manufactured by piercing a round steel billet and then stretching it to create a pipe shape without any seams. ERW pipes are typically used for low-pressure fire protection systems and have a lower cost, but they have limitations such as a potential weak point in the form of a seam, lower durability and pressure rating, and higher risk of leakage. On the other hand, Seamless pipes are typically used for high-pressure fire protection systems, have a longer lifespan, and are less likely to leak or burst, but they are generally more expensive than ERW pipes. The choice between the two types of pipes ultimately depends on the specific requirements of the fire protection system and the budget available. Both types of pipes are covered by codes and standards such as NFPA 13 and NFPA 14, which provide guidelines for the selection of pipe material for fire protection systems.

Thanks, Cover Picture is generated Using #AI