In construction projects, industrial projects, and even small workshops, the use of steel products such as pipes, cans, and profiles is quite common. Each of these steel sections has different characteristics, applications, and prices, and choosing them correctly can have a great impact on the quality and final cost of the project.
Many buyers are confused in identifying and choosing the right one due to the similarity in appearance of these products. In this article, we will examine the difference between pipes, cans, and profiles and review important points for purchasing from reputable centers.
What is a pipe and what is its function?
A pipe is a hollow section with a circular shape that is used to transport fluids such as water, gas, oil, steam, and even compressed air. This product is produced in steel, stainless steel, polyethylene, copper, and galvanized models in terms of material.
Key features of the pipe:
- Round shape and no corners: This design allows internal pressure to be distributed evenly.
- High resistance to pressure: Especially in steel and galvanized models.
- Variety in size and thickness: There are pipes for different uses from light to extra heavy.
Pipe Applications:
- Urban and Rural Water Supply Networks
- Natural and Industrial Gas Transmission Lines
- Cooling and Heating Systems
- Oil and Petrochemical Industries
Ahan Melal Company can provide customers with all types of industrial, gas, and scaffolding pipes in accordance with national and international standards.
If you are planning to buy ironware, see the article Key Points in Buying Ironware.
What is a can and how is it different from a pipe?
A can is a hollow section with a rectangular shape (square or rectangular) that is widely used in metal structures and construction work due to its flat surface and right angles.
Key Features of a Can:
- Rectangular Cross-Section: Suitable for connecting and welding in metal structures.
- Side Pressure Tolerance: Due to its geometric shape, it is resistant to bending and tensile forces.
- Beautiful and usable appearance in the facade: In modern architectural projects, cans are widely used due to their uniform appearance.
Can applications:
- Metal door and window construction
- Metal furniture production and lightweight structures
- Columns and sub-beams in metal framework
- Lightweight roofs and metal facades
What is a profile and what does it have to do with pipes and cans?
A profile is generally referred to as any long metal section that is made by hot rolling, cold rolling or welding methods. Profiles are divided into two general categories:
- Open profile: includes angles, gutters, beams, belts and the like.
- Closed profile: includes pipes, cans and various types of metal boxes.
In fact, pipes and cans are two types of closed profiles, the main difference between which is in the shape of the cross section and their application.
Note: To learn more about profiles, read the article Types of profiles available in the Iranian iron market.
Key Differences Between Pipe, Can and Profile
- Cross-section Shape: Round pipe, square can and profile can have any shape.
- Application: Pipe for fluid transport, can for structures and profile is a general term for all sections.
- Strength: Pipes are stronger against internal pressure, cans against lateral pressure.
- Weight and Price: Weight depends on thickness and dimensions and directly affects the price.
Important Factors When Buying
To make a cost-effective purchase, pay attention to the following points:
- Project Type: For example, for a greenhouse, a light can or galvanized pipe is suitable; but for a building skeleton, a thick can or heavy profile is needed.
- Environmental Conditions: In humid or industrial areas, the use of stainless or galvanized steel is essential.
- Actual Weight and Thickness: Always weigh the product, as a weight less than the standard can mean a reduction in strength.
- Production standard: Buy from stores that offer quality and standard certificates.
Practical examples to better understand the differences
- In a residential building, gas pipe is used for gas transmission and profile cans are used for window frames.
- In a factory, industrial pipe is used for steam and water lines and heavy cans are used for manufacturing Internal metal structures are used.
- In temporary structures such as scaffolding, scaffolding pipes are most commonly used.
Note: Before buying scaffolding pipes, see the article on the necessary indicators when buying scaffolding pipes
Why is it important to buy from reputable centers?
Centers that cooperate directly with factories can offer the product at a more affordable price and guaranteed quality. Ahan Melal is one of the reputable sales centers in the field of iron tools that
Advantages of buying from a reputable store:
- Transparency in pricing
- Providing official and valid invoices
- Complete variety of steel products
- Possibility of purchasing in bulk and in small quantities
Golden tips for economical purchases
- Check the daily price before buying. The iron market fluctuates a lot.
- Make bulk purchases for large projects. This reduces shipping costs and provides greater discounts.
- Get advice. Sales experts have extensive experience in choosing the right product.
- Pay attention to the delivery time. Delay in delivery can stop the project.
Understanding the differences between pipes, cans and profiles will help you make a smart and economical choice when purchasing. Each project has its own specific conditions, and choosing the right product can increase the life of the structure and reduce maintenance costs.