Pipe furniture is a popular way to give your home an industrial and utilitarian feel. From bookshelves to curtain rods to bookshelves to chairs and tables, you can create them all from steel pipes. The choice often falls to black and galvanized pipe, but which one is better?
Galvanized pipes are better for making furniture because they are durable and exceptionally resistant to rusting and corrosion. They are suitable for both indoor and outdoor furniture. However, if you’re on a budget, you can opt for the cheaper black pipes and apply a protective coating.
The rest of the article will explore topics related to this question in detail, including the differences between black and galvanized steel pipes, their strengths and weakness, and common usage.
Table of Contents
What Are Galvanized Pipes?
Galvanization or galvanizing is a manufacturing process that entails applying a coating of zinc on iron or steel to prevent rusting and corrosion.Hot-dip galvanizingis the most used coating process.
Hot-dip galvanizing entails dipping the iron or steel pipe in a molten pool of zinc heated at 860°F (460 °C). The process creates ametallurgical bondbetween zinc and the steel pipes. When exposed to the air, the pure zinc reacts with oxygen to formzinc oxide, further reacting with carbon dioxide to formzinc carbonate.
Zinc carbonate forms the final protective layer on hot-dipped galvanized steel pipes. It gives them a crystalline-like or spangle pattern.
With a formidable zinc-iron coating, galvanized steel is strong, durable, and isn’t susceptible to corrosion or rusting. The zinc coat acts as a barrier to the corrosive agents, resulting in a stable, superior quality steel product.
Benefits of Galvanized Steel Pipes
- Rust resistance. Iron is prone to rust when exposed to air and moisture. The zinc coating forms a protective buffer between the corrosive elements and the steel. The galvanizing process allows the molten zinc coat to cover every inch of the pipe, including the recesses and sharp corners, allowing pipes to resist damage.
- Cheaper than other treated steels. Galvanizing is the most affordable method of coating steel pipes and produces excellent results. Better yet, galvanized steel doesn’t require surface preparation or additional coating and painting before it’s ready to use.
- Long lifespan. A galvanized steel pipe has a life expectancy of 50 years with no maintenance whatsoever in a standard-setting. In severe water exposure, the pipes can last up to 20 years.
- The sacrificial coating. Whenever a galvanized piece is damaged, the surrounding zinc coat protects damaged steel. The protective coating corrodes first to offer sacrificial protection to the damaged area of the steel pipe.
Uses of Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel pipes are primarily used to supply water to homes and commercial buildings. The protective zinc coating prevents corrosion and mineral build-up within the tube. However, the zinc coat tends toflake with timeand might pose a health hazard when used to ferry drinking water.
Because of the cheap production process and extended lifespan of galvanized products, galvanized steel is becoming a staple in the manufacturing industry.
Galvanized metals are used to manufacture cars, bicycles, iron sheets, wires, tools, nuts, bolts, and more.
Galvanized steel is a staple in the construction industry, where it replaces bricks in modern steel frame buildings. It’s a popular choice when building structures such as staircases, balconies, walkways, verandahs, and ladders.
Galvanized steel is an excellent choice for any outdoor projects because of its ability to withstand extreme weather for many years. It’s the perfect choice for large structural pieces like fences, gutters, outdoor walkways, poles, rails, and roofs.
What Are Black Pipes?
Black pipes are uncoated steel coats with a characteristic scaly, black coating on the surface. The black color stems from the formation of iron oxide during the manufacturing process.
Black pipes are primarily used to transport gas and water, high-pressure steam and air, or conduits to protect electrical wiring. They are also used to build fire sprinkler systems because they can withstand high temperatures.
Black pipes are manufactured without a seam, making them strong and suitable for high-temperature, high-pressure applications. These pipes are a staple in the power generation, gas, oil, and pharmaceutical industries.
Theseamless pipes manufacturing processstarts with a solid, cylindrical chunk of steel known as abillet. Hot billets are hollowed out by driving a mandrel through their centers. The hollow billets are then rolled and stretched precisely to a predetermined diameter, length, and diameter thickness.
Benefits of Black Steel Pipes
- Strong heat resistance. Black pipes are used in fire sprinklers and pipes that transfer hot and cold water to heat exchangers due to their ability to withstand high heat.
- High corrosion resistance. Black pipes are made from mild steel, which gives them a superior corrosion resistance compared to cast iron pipes.
- Seamless. Since black pipes are cold drawn and rolled while hot, they’re stronger and safer than the seamed varieties. They can, therefore, safely move propane and natural gas without the risk of explosion.
- Affordability. Black pipes are cheaper to produce compared to galvanized pipes as another costly metal does not cover them.
- Low maintenance. Black pipes often ship with a protective oily layer that keeps the corrosive agents from penetrating the iron oxide layer. An industrial-grade iron oxide layer, often coupled with wax or oil layers, allows the pipes to be buried when used in oil and gas pipelines.
Black Pipes vs. Galvanized Pipes
- Coating.While both pipes are made of steel, the surface coating makes all the difference. Galvanized pipes are coated with zinc, which gives them a silvery gray finish. Black pipes, on the other hand, have an iron oxide coating given them a black, crusty finish.
- Corrosion resistance. Galvanized pipes can resist corrosion without additional treatment for up to 100 years. Black pipes are susceptible to rusting and corrosion and require further treatment. Properprimingand painting can reduce the black pipe’s susceptibility to rust.
- Strength. Due to their seamless production method, black pipes are structurally stronger than galvanized pipes. Seams are a structural weakness that often causes pipes to burst in a high temperature and pressure environment.
- Cost. The protective zinc coating on galvanized steel pipes makes them a tad more expensive than black steel pipes. However, these pipes are worth every penny as they have an incredibly long lifespan and require virtually no maintenance.
- Custom finish. Galvanized pipes may limit your ability to create a custom finish because they require special primer and paint, which is quite expensive. Black pipes are easy to prime and paint if you wish to have the pipe furniture match a room’s décor.
- Furniture making. Both galvanized and black pipes have a broad application in the furniture-making industry. They are available in small sizes and can be joined with the help of accessories. Galvanized pipes have a superior ability to resist rusting and corrosion. Therefore, they are suitable for making bathroom fittings such as towel racks and outdoor pieces such as railings, staircases, ladders, and balconies.
Conclusion
Since both black and galvanized pipes are made from steel, they are strong and durable products with diverse applications.
Galvanized pipes are a staple in the construction industry and build outdoor structures such as scaffolding, railing, and roof. Black pipes are commonly used for pipelines in the oil and gas industry.
Galvanized pipes are the best choice for furniture construction because they are resistant to corrosion and rusting and require no maintenance. Since black pipes are susceptible to rusting, they’re not suitable for making outdoor furniture or pieces to be used in a humid environment, such as towel racks.
Sources
- Ame Pipe: Welded Vs. Seamless Steel Pipe
- Caxton Supply: Galvanized Steel, Stainless Steel, or Black Steel: Which Is Right for You?
- World Iron Steel: What Is Black Pipe and What’s Used For?
- Difference Between: Difference Between Black and Galvanized Pipe
- Reddit: Galvanized Steel vs. black steel Piping?
- Homedit: Pipe Furniture
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- Is Eucalyptus Wood Good for Outdoor Furniture?
FAQs
What is black pipe used for? ›
Black steel piping is mainly used to carry gas into commercial buildings. This pipe is seamless, and this makes it perfect for carrying gas. Also, this pipe is more fireproof than carbon steel piping. Therefore it is also used in fire sprinkler systems.
Should I use black iron or galvanized pipe? ›2. Black pipe is best used for gas lines, not for water lines because it rusts easily, while galvanized pipe is the safer pipe to use in water lines, but it cannot be used to convey gas. 3. Black pipe is cheaper than galvanized pipe because of the zinc that is added to galvanized pipe.
What's the difference between black and galvanized steel? ›What is the main difference between black steel pipe and galvanized steel pipe? Black steel pipe and galvanized pipe are made of steel, but galvanized pipe has a zinc coating while black pipe does not and therefore, galvanized pipe is more expensive and more durable.
Will black iron pipe rust indoors? ›Black pipe is plain steel pipe without any protective coatings. Black pipe is used for a variety of applications around the home. It is very common to see black pipe used for your natural gas line and sprinkler system lines. Since black pipe has no protective coating, it may rust easily in wet or humid environments.
What is stronger galvanized or black pipe? ›Both black steel pipe and galvanized pipe are made of steel, however, galvanized pipe has a zinc coating while black pipe does not. As a result galvanized pipe is more durable.
Which is cheaper black pipe or galvanized? ›In general, black steel pipes are cheaper than galvanized pipes. It is due to the zinc coating on the galvanized pipes and the manufacturing process. Galvanized fittings also cost more than the fittings used on black steel due to its demand for maintenance.
Is galvanized steel good for furniture? ›Galvanised steel is a common material used for outdoor furniture as it is long lasting and rust resistant. Choosing outdoor furniture made of galvanised steel construction will help ensure your pieces ware well under exterior conditions.
Can you mix black pipe and galvanized? ›There is no galvanic corrosion/reaction between galvanized and black pipe because they're both made of "soft steel", galvanized is simply coated with zinc.
Will galvanized pipe rust? ›Galvanized steel pipes have a protective zinc coating in an attempt to prevent rust and corrosion. Unfortunately, the galvanized pipe lining corrodes and rusts on the inside after years of exposure to a water supply.
What is the difference between steel pipe and galvanized pipe? ›Durability. While it's true that steel is already a relatively durable material, galvanized pipes have better strength due to the protective zinc coating. The coating takes on the damage rather than the steel itself and it will rust before the interior.
How long does black iron pipe last? ›
Many Californian properties have cast iron sewage and sanitation pipes. That's not necessarily bad news for property owners; cast iron is capable of withstanding high water pressure, and properly installed cast iron lines can easily last for 80 to 100 years.
How do you seal black iron pipe to furniture? ›How To Clean and Seal Iron Pipes - YouTube
How do I keep my galvanized pipe from rusting? ›The best way to protect against metal-to-metal corrosion is to insulate the metal. For piping, consider installing insulators, such as wear pads or pipe shoes. Insulators add a buffer between metals, so the metal stays durable longer.
How do you seal black pipe? ›Sealing Black Iron Pipe Joints - YouTube
Can you use galvanized pipe for wood stove? ›Galvanized pipe does not belong in wood heat period. Welding makes extremely high temperatures which will vaporize zinc. You never want to use metal in the parts of a RMH that can get to those temps anyway, and heating the galvanized duct to the point of converting the zinc to a stable form is safe enough.
What is galvanized steel used for? ›Galvanized steel, in particular, is often what is used in modern “steel frame” buildings. Galvanized steel is also used to create structures like balconies, verandahs, staircases, ladders, walkways, and more. Galvanized metal is the ideal choice if your project will live outside after it's done.
Can you paint galvanized steel? ›Paint Galvanized Metal FAQ
Once the galvanized metal is cleaned, sanded thoroughly primed, most acrylic paints will adhere to it without any issues. For best results, it's advised that you remove the layer of white rust that develops on weathered galvanized metal over time.
Can you paint over galvanised steel? Hot Dip Galvanizing by itself is a long lasting, cost effective means of corrosion protection. However, galvanised steel can be painted for the following reasons: add colour for aesthetic, camouflage, or safety purposes.
What is black pipe called? ›Black Pipe
They are also known as black steel pipes, black iron pipes or black malleable pipes. Used to transport natural and propane gas from the street or a tank to the home. Good for fire sprinkler systems because of heat resistance. Hub-and-spigot cast iron pipes should be installed by professionals.
The steel pipe is more durable and it is not easy to scratch. Both iron and steel is heated easily. Thereby, the users should be careful while heating the pipes to handle the frozen water supply system. Steel pipe is more expensive than black iron pipe.
What type of metal is used for furniture? ›
In the past, bronze, gold, silver, and iron were the most commonly used metals; currently, steel and aluminium are the most commonly used metals in furniture production.
How strong is galvanized steel pipe? ›The mechanical properties of this type of pipe varies according to the method of manufacturing. However, the typical yield strength is around 30,000 psi.
How long does Galvanised steel last outside? ›The zinc coating of hot-dipped galvanized steel will last in the harshest soil is 35 to 50 years and in less corrosive soil 75 years or more. Although humidity affects corrosion, temperature itself has less of an impact. Galvanized zinc coatings respond well in extreme cold and hot temperatures.
How strong is black steel pipe? ›| MECHANICAL INFORMATION | ||
|---|---|---|
| Imperial | Metric | |
| Density | 0.282 lb/in3 | 7.8 g/cc |
| Ultimate Tensile Strength | 58,000psi | 400 MPa |
| Yield Tensile Strength | 46,000psi | 317 MPa |
Limitations Of Black Iron Pipe
It requires a coating and application method approved by the local jurisdiction. So most professionals just don't use black iron outdoors.
Black-iron pipe is OK for gas lines and for closed-loop hydronic- and steam-heat systems because oxygen isn't regularly introduced into the loop. The oxygen in water is what actually rusts the pipe. Stick to copper pipe or PEX tubing for use in your home's potable-water lines.
What can I use instead of galvanized pipe? ›Galvanized pipes are no longer used in homes. The 3 common types of pipes used to replace galvanized are PEX (Cross-linked polyethylene), PVC-CPVC (polyvinyl chloride or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) or copper pipes.
How long can galvanized pipe last? ›Galvanized pipes have an average lifespan that ranges between 40 and 50 years. However, pipes that are well-built, well-installed, and well-maintained can easily exceed the typical lifespan. Read below to learn more about the life span of galvanized pipes.
How long does it take for galvanized pipe to rust? ›Galvanized water pipes are made of iron or steel that has a thin protective coating of zinc. They are durable and have a life expectancy of 50-70 years.
› Articles ›The Difference Between Black Pipe and Galvanized Pipe
The difference between black steel pipe and galvanized steel pipe
The Difference Between Galvanized Steel Pipe and Black Steel Pipe
What for the black pipes are used underground? ›
What pipe can be used for natural gas? Black iron, galvanized steel.
Is black pipe steel or iron? ›Despite its name, black iron pipe is actually made of a low-grade "mild steel" compound. This gives it much better corrosion resistance than traditional cast iron piping.
Can black pipe be used outside? ›Limitations Of Black Iron Pipe
It requires a coating and application method approved by the local jurisdiction. So most professionals just don't use black iron outdoors.
Black Pipe
They are also known as black steel pipes, black iron pipes or black malleable pipes. Used to transport natural and propane gas from the street or a tank to the home. Good for fire sprinkler systems because of heat resistance.
There is no galvanic corrosion/reaction between galvanized and black pipe because they're both made of "soft steel", galvanized is simply coated with zinc.
How do you clean black galvanized pipe? ›How To Clean and Seal Iron Pipes - YouTube
Will galvanized steel pipe rust? ›Galvanized steel pipes have a protective zinc coating in an attempt to prevent rust and corrosion. Unfortunately, the galvanized pipe lining corrodes and rusts on the inside after years of exposure to a water supply. This rust finds its way into your water lines and, eventually, to you.
How long does black iron pipe last? ›Many Californian properties have cast iron sewage and sanitation pipes. That's not necessarily bad news for property owners; cast iron is capable of withstanding high water pressure, and properly installed cast iron lines can easily last for 80 to 100 years.
How strong is black steel pipe? ›| MECHANICAL INFORMATION | ||
|---|---|---|
| Imperial | Metric | |
| Density | 0.282 lb/in3 | 7.8 g/cc |
| Ultimate Tensile Strength | 58,000psi | 400 MPa |
| Yield Tensile Strength | 46,000psi | 317 MPa |
What's the difference between Black Steel and Carbon Steel Pans? There is no difference in materials between cookware sold as “black steel” and cookware sold as “carbon steel.” Both are constructed of high-carbon steel.
Can you use galvanized pipe for wood stove? ›
Galvanized pipe does not belong in wood heat period. Welding makes extremely high temperatures which will vaporize zinc. You never want to use metal in the parts of a RMH that can get to those temps anyway, and heating the galvanized duct to the point of converting the zinc to a stable form is safe enough.
How do you seal black pipe? ›Sealing Black Iron Pipe Joints - YouTube
How do I keep my steel pipe from rusting? ›The best way to protect against metal-to-metal corrosion is to insulate the metal. For piping, consider installing insulators, such as wear pads or pipe shoes. Insulators add a buffer between metals, so the metal stays durable longer.
Why is galvanized pipe so expensive? ›Galvanized pipe is more expensive because of zinc coating. Galvanized pipe is more durable. You do not want to use galvanized pipe for gas because of the galvanized coating. Over time pieces of the galvanized steel will flake off and clog your gas regulators and burner units.
Which pipe is used for interior work? ›Copper and PEX are the most common pipe materials used in homes.
What is black water pipe called? ›Black polyethylene, or PE, pipe comes in very long rolls and is used in many areas for the water main between the meter and the house and for sprinkler systems. Just like any other type of pipe, poly pipe does not last forever and can develop leaks with time and with the help of tree roots.
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