On Tue, 05 Mar 2013 17:06:59 -0500, Ned Simmons
wrote:


Is either better for structural uses?
jsw

Yes and no -depends. Black Iron water/gas pipe today is pretty much
an unknown, quality-wise. Cheap rough Chinese crap in many cases - in
which case Rigid conduit MAY be stronger/more predictable.

ASTM A53 is the standard that covers common steel plumbing pipe in the
US. Even Home Depot and Lowes cite that spec for the black pipe they
sell, so I don't think it's fair to say that the quality of black pipe
is an unknown. It may not be exactly what one might want for a
particular purpose, but it is qualified for its intended use.

The steel dealers around here stock uncoated A53 pipe, which is much
better looking than the black stuff, and preferable if you're welding
or painting it.

I found that out awhile back, I was welding up platforms and putting
on railings and found I could buy bare steel pipe. The stuff I got
welded nicely. Came in 21 foot lenghts, same as plumbing pipe. Not
sure what the ratings were.
Remove 333 to reply.
Randy