MS Seamless Pipe vs ERW Pipe – Full Comparison Guide 2025

When choosing the right Mild Steel (MS) pipe for your project, it’s important to understand the two main types: MS Seamless Pipes and MS ERW Pipes. Each type has distinct features, manufacturing processes, and use-cases. In this comprehensive guide from Udhhyog, we break down their definitions, benefits, differences, and when to use which.

What is an MS Seamless Pipe?

MS Seamless Pipe is manufactured from a solid billet of steel without any weld seam. The billet is heated and pierced to create a hollow tube. Since it has no welding joint, it offers superior strength, uniformity, and pressure resistance.

Key Features of MS Seamless Pipe

• Manufactured using hot extrusion or cold drawing
• No welding seam – ensures smooth internal surface
• Excellent strength for high-pressure systems
• More expensive than ERW but preferred in critical applications

What is an MS ERW Pipe?

MS ERW Pipe Full Form: Electric Resistance Welded Pipe. It is made by cold-forming a strip of steel into a tube and then welding the seam longitudinally using electric resistance.

Key Features of MS ERW Pipe

• Fast and cost-effective production
• Slight internal welding line (can be removed for smooth flow)
• Suitable for medium to low-pressure applications
• Widely used in general construction, water lines, and fencing

Seamless vs ERW Pipe – Comparison Table

Seamless MS Pipe Size Chart

The following are standard dimensions used in seamless MS pipe manufacturing:

• 15mm NB – OD 21.3mm
• 25mm NB – OD 33.7mm
• 50mm NB – OD 60.3mm
• 100mm NB – OD 114.3mm
• 150mm NB – OD 168.3mm
• Thickness varies as per Schedule (SCH 20, 40, 80, 160)

Strength & Testing Differences

Seamless pipes undergo stricter quality control and hydrostatic testing due to their use in pressure-sensitive environments. ERW pipes are tested mainly for weld integrity and dimensional uniformity.

Where Each Pipe Is Used

MS Seamless Pipe Applications:

• Petroleum and gas transmission lines
• Steam boilers and superheater tubes
• Heavy-duty hydraulic systems
• Chemical processing plants

MS ERW Pipe Applications:

• Water supply lines
• Scaffolding & construction
• Fencing and boundary walls
• Automobile frames

Diagram: Seamless vs ERW Pipe (Structure)

(Image placeholder: A cross-section image showing seamless pipe as a smooth cylinder and ERW pipe with a visible longitudinal weld seam)

Price Comparison – Seamless vs ERW

As of 2025, the average price difference between the two types:

• MS Seamless Pipe: ₹90 – ₹105 per KG
• MS ERW Pipe: ₹66 – ₹80 per KG

Prices vary based on class (A/B/C), wall thickness, and source (domestic vs imported). Seamless pipes command higher pricing due to raw material and precision processing costs.

Summary – Which One Should You Use?

• Use MS Seamless Pipes for high-pressure, critical installations like oil, gas, and heat exchange systems.
• Use MS ERW Pipes for general-purpose structural or water distribution pipelines.

Internal Resources

• MS Pipe Price List – Per Meter & KG
• Types of Pipes Used in Plumbing & Construction

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? FAQs

Q1. What is the full form of ERW pipe?

ERW: Electric Resistance Welded.

Q2. What is the difference between seamless and welded pipe?

Seamless pipes have no weld seam, while welded (ERW) pipes have a longitudinal seam formed by electric resistance welding.

Q3. Are seamless pipes stronger than ERW?

Yes, especially in high-pressure applications, seamless pipes offer better mechanical strength and reliability.

Q4. Which is cheaper – seamless or ERW?

ERW pipes are generally cheaper due to faster and simpler manufacturing.