Seamless pipe is produced by piercing and rolling a solid billet, so it has no longitudinal weld seam. Welded pipe is formed from plate or coil and joined along a seam, usually by ERW or submerged arc welding.
Where seamless wins: high pressure service, high temperature service, cyclic or vibrating duty, and corrosive media, because there is no heat-affected zone along the length of the pipe to act as a weak point.
Where welded wins: large diameters, long straight runs, lower pressure utility lines, and cost-sensitive projects. Modern welded pipe with full radiography can be perfectly suitable for demanding service when the specification allows it.
In practice the deciding factors are the design code, the pressure and temperature rating, the diameter you need and the project budget. Share your line specification with us and we will advise on the right grade and manufacturing route.
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