SSAW Steel Pipe (Spiral Welded Steel Pipe)
SSAW (Spiral Submerged Arc Welded) steel pipe is a large-diameter welded pipe manufactured from hot-rolled coils using helical forming. Known for cost-efficiency and diameter flexibility, it is widely used for water transmission, low-pressure pipelines, structural piling, and industrial infrastructure projects.
| Material | Welded Carbon Steel (SSAW/HSAW Spiral Weld) |
|---|---|
| Grade / Standard | API 5L Grade B/X42/X46/X52/X56/X60/X65; Q235B/Q345B; S235JR/S355JR |
| Outer Diameter (OD) | 219mm - 3500mm (8" - 138") |
| Wall Thickness (WT) | 5.0mm - 25.4mm (0.197" - 1.0") |
| Length | 6m - 18m (Customized Fixed Length Available) |
| Delivery Condition | normalized |
| Surface Treatment | bare / galvanized |
| MOQ | 25 Tons (Project Dependent) |
| Delivery Time | 15-45 Days (Depends on Volume & Coating) |
| Loading Port | Tianjin / Shanghai / Qingdao / Rizhao |
Overview of SSAW Steel Pipe
SSAW (Spiral Submerged Arc Welded) steel pipe, also known as spiral welded pipe or HSAW (Helical Submerged Arc Welded) pipe, is manufactured by continuously forming hot-rolled steel coils into a helical (spiral) shape and welding the seam using the submerged arc welding (SAW) process. This unique manufacturing method allows for the production of large-diameter pipes from narrower steel coils, offering significant cost advantages over longitudinal welded alternatives in many applications.
Shandong Tanglu Metal Material Co., Ltd. supplies premium SSAW steel pipes conforming to international standards including API 5L, ASTM A252, ASTM A53, AWWA C200, EN10217, SY/T 5037, and GB/T 9711. Produced on advanced spiral forming mills with multi-wire SAW systems, our SSAW pipes deliver reliable performance for water transmission, structural piling, and general fluid conveyance projects worldwide, providing an optimal balance of large-diameter capability and economic efficiency.
Key Features and Technical Advantages
The primary advantage of SSAW steel pipe is its manufacturing flexibility — using steel coils of standard width, it can produce pipes of virtually any diameter (typically 219mm to 3500mm or 8″ to 138″) without requiring specialized plate widths. This results in lower raw material costs and faster production lead times compared to LSAW or seamless alternatives for large-diameter applications.
The helical weld seam distributes stress more evenly around the pipe circumference under certain loading conditions, and modern multi-wire SAW technology ensures full-penetration, defect-free welds. Our SSAW pipes undergo comprehensive quality control including 100% ultrasonic inspection of weld seams, hydrostatic testing, and dimensional verification. They are available in various wall thicknesses and can be supplied with external coatings (FBE, 3LPE, polyethylene wrapping) and internal linings for corrosion protection in demanding service environments.
Main Applications of SSAW Steel Pipe
SSAW steel pipe is the backbone of municipal and industrial water infrastructure. It is extensively used for long-distance water transmission pipelines, municipal water supply networks, drainage systems, and irrigation projects. In the oil and gas industry, SSAW pipes serve as gathering lines, low-to-medium pressure transmission pipelines, and casing pipes for wells.
The structural sector relies heavily on SSAW pipes for foundation piling (bridge piers, port structures, high-rise building foundations), structural columns, and marine sheet piles. SSAW is also widely utilized in the construction of penstocks for hydroelectric power plants, cooling water systems for thermal power stations, slurry transport in mining operations, and large-diameter ducting for industrial ventilation and process plants. Its cost-effectiveness makes it the preferred choice for projects where large-diameter, moderate-pressure conduits are required.
Why Choose Us for SSAW Steel Pipe
Shandong Tanglu Metal Material Co., Ltd. partners with leading spiral pipe mills equipped with advanced 3-roll forming systems, multi-wire internal and external SAW units, and inline ultrasonic testing equipment. We provide comprehensive Mill Test Certificates (MTC) documenting full compliance with specified standards, including heat numbers, chemical composition, mechanical properties, and NDT results.
We offer flexible production scheduling to accommodate project timelines, with the ability to produce custom diameters and lengths efficiently. Our logistics team handles specialized packaging for large-diameter pipes, including protective end caps, waterproof wrapping, and secure bundling. With extensive export experience to over 60 countries, we provide technical consultation on coating specifications, installation methodologies, and material selection for diverse project requirements.
📐 Dimension & Size Table
| Dia (mm) | Dia (Inch) | Wall Thickness (mm) | Weight (kg/m) | Steel Grade Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 219.1 | 8" | 6.0 | 31.5 | |
| 406.4 | 16" | 8.0 | 79.0 | |
| 610.0 | 24" | 8.0 | 118.8 | |
| 813.0 | 32" | 10.0 | 197.4 | |
| 1020.0 | 40" | 12.0 | 296.2 | |
| 1220.0 | 48" | 12.7 | 374.1 | |
| 1420.0 | 56" | 14.0 | 481.9 | |
| 1620.0 | 64" | 16.0 | 629.5 | |
| 2020.0 | 80" | 18.0 | 882.3 | |
| 2520.0 | 99" | 20.0 | 1224.0 | |
| 3000.0 | 118" | 22.0 | 1605.0 |
* Custom sizes available upon request. Tolerances per relevant international standards.
🔬 Chemical Composition
| Element | Min | Max | Display Value | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | - | ≤0.22 | ≤0.22 | Max varies by grade |
| Mn | - | ≤1.60 | ≤1.60 | |
| Si | - | ≤0.45 | ≤0.45 | |
| P | - | 0.030 | ≤0.030 | |
| S | - | 0.030 | ≤0.030 | |
| CE (Carbon Equivalent) | - | ≤0.43 | ≤0.43 | Weldability control |
* Chemical composition may vary by heat, thickness and specification. Please refer to the actual mill test certificate.
⚙️ Mechanical Properties
| Property | Value | Unit | Test Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yield Strength (Min) | 235 - 450 | MPa | Q235B to X65 |
| Tensile Strength (Min) | 370 - 535 | MPa | Varies by grade |
| Elongation (A5) | ≥20 | % | Min requirement |
| Charpy Impact Test | ≥27 (Avg @ 0°C) | J | Per standard spec |
| Hydrostatic Test | Passed | - | Mandatory for each pipe |
| Weld Tensile Test | ≥Base Metal Strength | - | Transverse weld test |
| Ultrasonic Inspection | 100% Weld Seam | - | Standard requirement |
* Values shown are minimum requirements unless otherwise stated.
📦 Commercial Information
| Packaging | Large diameter SSAW pipes are shipped loose with protective plastic or metal end caps on beveled ends. Pipes are stenciled with heat number, size, standard, and manufacturer mark. For coated pipes, padded slings and cradles are used to prevent coating damage. Pipes are loaded onto flatbed trucks or bulk vessels with adequate dunnage, blocking, and securing straps. Smaller diameters may be bundled with steel straps. |
|---|---|
| Payment Terms | L/C (Letter of Credit),T/T (Telegraphic Transfer),D/P (Documents against Payment),Western Union |
| Price Term | FOB,CFR,CIF,DAP,DDP |
| Supply Capacity | 15,000 - 30,000 Tons/Month |
| Loading Port | Tianjin / Shanghai / Qingdao / Rizhao |
Why Choose Our SSAW Steel Pipe (Spiral Welded Steel Pipe)?
Unmatched Diameter Flexibility
Helical forming from standard-width coils allows production of virtually any diameter from 219mm to 3500mm+, without requiring special plate widths. This provides unparalleled flexibility for custom project specifications.
Superior Cost Efficiency
Using hot-rolled coil instead of discrete plate as raw material significantly reduces material costs. Higher production speeds and lower tooling requirements translate to 15-30% cost savings versus equivalent LSAW pipes.
Faster Production Lead Times
Continuous spiral forming enables rapid production rates. Standard sizes are often available from stock, and large project volumes can be completed within shorter timeframes compared to plate-forming methods.
Comprehensive Quality Assurance
100% ultrasonic weld seam inspection, hydrostatic testing, and full dimensional verification. MTC with full traceability — chemical, mechanical, and NDT data per EN 10204 3.1 or 3.2.
Proven Global Track Record
Widely specified for major water diversion projects, municipal networks, port infrastructure, and energy pipelines across Asia, Africa, Middle East, and South America. Decades of field-proven reliability.
🏭 Applications of SSAW Steel Pipe (Spiral Welded Steel Pipe)
SSAW steel pipe is the cost-effective solution for large-diameter infrastructure worldwide. It is the industry standard for municipal and industrial water transmission, including cross-country water diversion projects and urban water distribution networks. In the energy sector, it serves as gathering lines and low-to-medium pressure transmission conduits. The construction industry relies on SSAW for deep foundation piling, bridge piers, and marine structures. SSAW is also the preferred material for hydroelectric penstocks, cooling water pipelines, mine tailings transport, and large-diameter industrial ventilation ducting.
📋 Quality & Certification
Our Certifications
- ✅ ISO 9001:2015
- ✅ CE Marking
- ✅ DNV GL
- ✅ Lloyd's Register (LR)
- ✅ Bureau Veritas (BV)
Mill Certificate Type
- 📋 EN 10204 3.1
- 📋 EN 10204 3.2
- 📋 Certificate of Origin
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SSAW and LSAW steel pipe?
SSAW (Spiral Weld) pipe is formed helically from steel coil, while LSAW (Longitudinal Weld) pipe is formed and welded lengthwise from discrete steel plate. SSAW offers greater diameter flexibility and lower cost, making it ideal for water transmission and large-diameter moderate-pressure applications. LSAW provides higher dimensional precision, better pressure ratings, and is preferred for high-pressure oil/gas pipelines and critical offshore applications.
What is the maximum diameter available for SSAW pipe?
SSAW pipe can be produced in diameters up to 3500mm (138 inches) or even larger on specialized mills. The most common project sizes range from 508mm (20") to 2540mm (100"). Custom diameters can be produced efficiently as the spiral forming process does not require special plate widths.
Is the spiral weld seam as strong as a longitudinal weld?
Yes. When produced per API 5L or equivalent standards with qualified welding procedures, the spiral weld achieves full penetration and meets the same mechanical requirements (tensile, bend, impact) as longitudinal welds. Modern multi-wire SAW technology ensures consistent, high-quality spiral welds. The helical orientation can actually distribute hoop stress more uniformly in certain loading scenarios.
Can SSAW pipes be used for oil and gas transmission?
SSAW pipes are widely used for low-to-medium pressure oil and gas gathering and transmission lines, typically up to API 5L X65 grade. For high-pressure trunk lines (>100 bar), offshore pipelines, or sour service, LSAW or seamless pipes are generally specified due to tighter dimensional tolerances and higher pressure ratings.
What coatings are available for SSAW water transmission pipes?
For buried water pipelines, standard external coatings include bitumen enamel, FBE (Fusion Bonded Epoxy), and 3LPE (Three-Layer Polyethylene). Internal cement mortar lining (CML) or epoxy lining is commonly applied for potable water to prevent corrosion and maintain water quality. For subsea applications, concrete weight coating is used for stability and protection.
What testing is performed on SSAW steel pipes?
Every SSAW pipe undergoes: 1) Chemical analysis of the steel plate/coil. 2) Mechanical testing (tensile, yield, elongation, impact). 3) 100% ultrasonic examination of the spiral weld seam. 4) Hydrostatic pressure test. 5) Dimensional inspection (diameter, wall thickness, ovality, length, straightness). 6) Visual inspection of weld and surface condition. Additional testing such as radiography, hardness, or bend tests may be performed per project specification.
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SSAW Steel Pipe (Spiral Welded Steel Pipe)
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