ERW (Electric Resistance Welded) & LSAW (Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welding)
The main difference between ERW and LSAW pipes lies in the way they are fabricated. ERW pipes are formed by rolling a flat sheet of steel into a cylindrical shape and then welding the seam. This process is accomplished by passing a high-frequency electrical current through the edges of the steel strip. On the other hand, LSAW pipes are manufactured by using a specialized welding process in which a heavy-duty welder is used to weld the edges of the steel plates together.
ERW pipes are generally of smaller diameter and thinner wall thickness compared to LSAW pipes. They are mostly used for transporting fluids, gases, and steam in industries such as oil and gas, construction, and plumbing. ERW pipes are also commonly used in structural applications such as scaffolding and fencing.
LSAW pipes are used for larger diameter and thicker wall thickness applications such as gas and oil pipelines, refineries, and water treatment plants. LSAW pipes can also be used for structural purposes such as bridge construction and in the construction of large buildings.ERW pipes are typically smaller and thinner while LSAW pipes are used for larger and thicker applications.
1. Manufacturing process: ERW pipes are manufactured by rolling metal and welding it longitudinally. On the other hand, LSAW pipes are produced by forming a hot rolled steel plate into a cylindrical shape and welding it from the inside and outside.
2. Size range: ERW pipes are generally available in smaller diameters, ranging from ½” to 24”. In contrast, LSAW pipes can be made in larger diameters, ranging from 16” to 56”, making it a more viable option for large-scale applications.
3. Quality control: Another factor to consider is the quality control measures implemented during the manufacturing process. ERW pipes require strict inspection and monitoring during welding to ensure that the welding equipment produces the necessary heat and pressure for successful welding. LSAW pipes, on the other hand, require more complex quality control measures, such as ultrasonic testing and x-ray inspection, to ensure that the welding is uniform and free of defects.
