Steel Pipe vs. Concrete Pipe
There are many variables to consider when deciding whether to use steel pipe or concrete, including things like ease of installation, longevity, resistance to corrosion, pipe strength, weight and cost. Though some jobs might allow these pipes to be used interchangeably, most are better suited for one or the other.
Installation
Concrete Pipe
One of the biggest challenges in working with concrete pipe is its installation. Properly installed, concrete pipe can last for decades. Improperly installed, however, the pipe can quickly fail. Concrete pipe requires expert and careful installation, and small errors can dramatically shorten the life of the pipe.
Steel Pipe
Steel pipe is easy to install. The steel can be customized to any height, width or strength, and it can be modified on site as needed. Because of this, steel pipe is considered one of the most versatile and convenient types of pipe. On the downside, steel pipe is relatively expensive to install compared to concrete.
Longevity
Concrete Pipe
Much of the life expectancy of a pipe has to do with its resistance to corrosion. Concrete is resistant to corrosion, except in situations where there are highly acidic compounds in the soil or wastewater, in which case the concrete might need a separate coating of plastic material to prevent corrosion. If installed correctly, concrete pipe can last between 75 and 100 years. Similarly, concrete has a high breaking point, which allows for higher operating pressures and less risk of root intrusion.
Steel Pipe
Steel pipe has a low interior surface friction, remains stable at extreme temperatures, and is not affected by sunlight or ultraviolet rays, which adds to its longevity. If a steel pipe is properly treated during the manufacturing process (coated both inside and out with zinc or protective paint), the pipe can be expected to last 100 years.
Strength
Concrete Pipe
Concrete pipe has long been considered one of the strongest and most durable building materials available, and it is often used in the construction of storm water drains, sewers, culverts, and other projects requiring heavy loads and a high amount of water flow.
Steel Pipe
Steel pipe boasts more mechanical strength and durability than other metals like iron. Steel is resistant to bursting from mechanical force, since the metal tends to bend rather than break under high pressure.
Weight
Concrete Pipe
Concrete pipe is heavy, which creates difficulties during installation. Often, more equipment and labor is required to install concrete pipe as opposed to steel.
Steel Pipe
Steel pipe ranges in size and weight, but often it’s more lightweight and therefore easier to handle and install than concrete pipe.
Cost
Concrete Pipe
Concrete pipe is typically cheaper to purchase and install than steel pipe. When considering cost, it’s important to look at the costs of the initial design, construction, materials, inspection and maintenance for the pipe. Concrete is typically considered a “low cost” pipe because it does not require additional investments for repair or maintenance over its lifetime.
Steel Pipe
The price of steel pipe purchase and installation can vary greatly depending on its application. However, when using steel pipe in comparable situations to concrete pipe, steel pipe is typically more expensive to purchase and install. The design, installation and inspection costs of steel pipe are on average larger than comparable concrete pipe costs.
Versatility
Concrete Pipe
Concrete pipe has a relatively low versatility when compared to steel pipe. It’s mainly used in the construction industry and is prevalent in water and sewage transportation.
Steel Pipe
Steel pipe is one of the most versatile pipes available, making it a top choice in a wide range of industries including construction, medical, shipbuilding, textile, agricultural and oil and gas, and more. Since steel pipe is both durable and lightweight, it’s commonly used in city water, gas, heating and plumbing systems, as well as in everyday items such as fridges, bicycles, flagpoles and cars.
To learn more about steel pipe, check out our blog post titled "All About Steel Pipe".
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