.....actually to make a Verandah handrail.

I have in mind the kind of stuff which in the past was used for heating
systems (at least in my school in the 1960's) but that no longer seems to be
available through plumbers merchants.

I have found tube for compressed air distribution (eg
http://tinyurl.com/o5qwe) seems to be readily available. Is this the same
stuff? Basically I don't want it to bend if leaned on, over a 1.5 metre-ish
span. I'm confident that pipe at least 1" diameter with wall thickness
over 1/8" will cut the mustard.

Any other suggestions on making strong tubular/cylindrical handrails
appreciated.


David