Surplus vs. New Steel Pipe
Surplus steel pipe is pipe that has been previously purchased but unused. Many times, if a contractor has already purchased steel pipe for a project that gets canceled, the pipe will be stored in a yard for a period of time. There are many benefits to surplus steel pipe, mostly involving the cost savings.
Where Does New and Surplus Steel Pipe Come From?
New or “prime” steel pipe is one of the most commonly used products in the steel industry, and each year millions of tons of steel pipe are manufactured and sold around the world. Surplus steel pipe, on the other hand, does not come directly from the manufacturer but rather from a job site or other location where it’s been previously stored.
It’s a common misconception that surplus steel pipe must be old, dirty or corroded, but this isn’t always the case. Sometimes surplus steel pipe looks and functions as brand new. Surplus steel pipe might be sold as “used” or “surplus” if the pipe was left over from another project, such as in instances where more pipe was ordered than needed, or where scraps of pipe were left over from being cut. In these cases, the pipe cannot be resold as new, but buyers can purchase the top quality material at a lower rate. Similarly, new steel pipe might be resold as surplus in instances where the pipe was ordered but rejected on site. This might happen if the material was improperly cut, the wrong size was ordered, or the project was cancelled.
Additionally, used steel pipe is very common on the market. Excess steel pipe is commonly created when companies upgrade their systems, and the old pipe can be resold. Similarly, if a company upgrades to a different type of pipe or to a system with a different pipe diameter, lightly used pipe will be available.
When to Choose Surplus Over New Steel Pipe
In many cases, surplus steel pipe is just as effective as new steel pipe and can be used successfully in its place. Surplus steel should always be tested for pressure resistance and durability before use, and pipe that doesn’t pass the test should only be used in light-duty situations. Surplus steel pipe can be utilized for structural work, reinforcement projects (such as bulkheads), deep foundations, drainage, and, more. Surplus steel pipe can be used as a surface casing or road bore casing, which is pipe that’s used beneath roads to hold together smaller pieces of pipe.
When Should Surplus Steel Not Be Used?
When purchasing surplus or used steel pipe, it is always important to perform an inspection on the pipe. Eiffel Trading’s expert account managers are always available to set up inspections and to assist you in the purchasing process!
To learn more about steel pipe, check out our blog titled "All About Steel Pipe".
BUY AND SELL WITH EIFFEL TRADING
In addition to used and surplus steel pipe, our online marketplace hosts a wide variety of used and surplus materials, including used wide flange beams, used sheet pile, used barrier wall, and much more. Furthermore, our online marketplace currently has loads of used equipment, from used accomodation barges to used dozers, and everything in between.
All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing for free.
Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.
If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.