Types of MS Pipe – Classification by Use, Grade & Thickness
Types of MS Pipe – Classification by Use, Grade & Thickness
Mild Steel (MS) pipes are the backbone of infrastructure in India — from plumbing and irrigation to structural fabrication and industrial pipelines. But did you know that there are multiple types of MS pipe, each made for a specific purpose?
In this guide, we simplify the classification of MS pipes based on manufacturing process, application, class rating (A, B, C), and thickness. Whether you're a contractor, fabricator, or buyer, this article will help you identify the right MS pipe for your needs.
What Are MS Pipes?
MS pipes are made from low carbon steel with excellent ductility and weldability. They're widely used in both pressure-bearing and non-pressure-bearing systems across India.
Classification of MS Pipes – Overview
There are 3 primary ways to classify MS pipes:
1. By Manufacturing Process
- ERW (Electric Resistance Welded) MS Pipe – Formed by rolling steel and welding the seam; widely used in water lines, scaffolding, light structural work.
- Seamless MS Pipe – No weld seam; made by hot extrusion — used for high-pressure and industrial pipelines.
2. By Pipe Class (A, B, C)
Defined by wall thickness:
- Class A: Light (Thin wall)
- Class B: Medium (Standard wall)
- Class C: Heavy (Thick wall)
These classes impact pressure rating and durability. Learn more:
3. By Application Use
- Structural MS Pipes – Used in construction, trusses, industrial sheds.
- Conduit MS Pipes – For electrical wiring protection.
- Plumbing MS Pipes – Water transport systems.
- Fire-fighting MS Pipes – Red-painted Class C pipes.
Class A, B, C – Thickness & Use Comparison
| Class | Wall Thickness | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| A | Thin (e.g. 2.0 mm) | General water lines, low load |
| B | Medium (e.g. 2.9 mm) | Commercial plumbing, frames |
| C | Thick (e.g. 3.6 mm) | Heavy-duty use, pressure systems |
Dive deeper:
Other Ways to Classify MS Pipes
By Shape:
- Round Pipe – Most common
- Square Pipe – For railing, grills
- Rectangular Pipe – For frames, sheds
By Size:
- From 15mm (1/2") to 300mm (12") or more
- Standard lengths: 6 meters
By Coating:
- Bare MS Pipe
- Black MS Pipe – Oiled finish
- Red MS Pipe – Fire fighting
- Galvanised MS Pipe – For corrosion resistance
Common Use-Cases for Each Type
| MS Pipe Type | Industry/Application |
|---|---|
| ERW Round Pipe | Water transport, scaffolding |
| Seamless Pipe | Oil, gas, steam lines |
| Square MS Pipe | Furniture, fabrication |
| Class C Pipe | Fire fighting, pressure plumbing |
| GI Coated MS Pipe | Water lines, fencing |
Summary – Quick Reference Table
| Type | Description | Used For |
|---|---|---|
| ERW Pipe | Welded seam, affordable | General plumbing, structural |
| Seamless Pipe | No seam, high-pressure | Industrial pipelines |
| Class A / B / C | Thickness-rated by IS standard | Light to heavy-duty pipelines |
| Square Pipe | MS pipe with square cross-section | Railings, fabrication |
| Conduit Pipe | Thin-wall pipe for wires | Electrical installations |
FAQ – Types of MS Pipe
Q1. What is the difference between Class B and Class C MS pipes?
Class C pipes are thicker and more durable, suitable for high-pressure applications, while Class B is for medium-duty.
Q2. Which is better: ERW or Seamless MS pipe?
Seamless is stronger and used for critical systems, but ERW is more cost-effective and sufficient for non-critical use.
Q3. What is the standard length of MS pipes?
Most MS pipes come in 6-meter lengths, but custom cuts are also available.
Q4. Can I use square MS pipes for load-bearing structures?
Yes, square pipes are often used in trusses and frames, especially in light to medium load structures.
Q5. Are GI pipes and MS pipes the same?
No. GI pipes are galvanized MS pipes with zinc coating to resist corrosion.
Related Internal Links
- MS Pipe Class →
- MS Pipe Class C Thickness →
- What Is MS Pipe →
- MS Pipe vs GI Pipe →
- 2 Inch MS Pipe Weight →
Conclusion
MS pipes come in a wide variety of types, each engineered for specific structural, plumbing, or industrial needs. Understanding the different types of MS pipe helps you choose the right pipe class, coating, and thickness — saving cost and ensuring performance.
Need Help Choosing the Right MS Pipe?
Udhhyog offers all types of MS pipes with verified quality, credit terms, and B2B bulk support.
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