Which plumbing pipe is best?

Global SourcesUpdated on 2023/12/01

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Learn more about the pros and cons of each pipe type.

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Pipes for water and gas transport are rising in supply, as plumbing remains one of the biggest pipe applications to date. With a plethora of options in the market, which pipe types suit best today’s plumbing needs? Which to buy or source?

The answer is reflected by some of the biggest ongoing trends in the plumbing industry, as mentioned in a Tubomart article – need for better water efficiency and pipe anti-aging solutions, and the rise of relining. This means buyers or importers must be on the lookout for pipes that are leak-resistant, durable and easy-to-install and -reposition.

Below table shows the main advantages and disadvantages of popular plumbing pipe types such as PVC, galvanized steel, stainless steel, copper, cast iron and PEX, which could help buyers and importers decide which to stock up on.

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These pipe types and their fittings can be sourced easily via GlobalSources.com.

API SPEC 5CT standard

Company: Shaanxi Kerlimar Engineers Co. Ltd

The Seamless Steel Pipes-3-004-1 model from Shaanxi Kerlimar adopts carbon steel. It meets the API SPEC 5CT standard. This grade 20 pipe measures 219.1x7.8x11.6mm. Price is $400 to $450 per metric ton. MOQ is 100 metric tons.

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Hot-dip galvanized

Company: Shanghai Fortune International Trade Co. Ltd

Shanghai Fortune’s Hot Dipped Galvanized Steel Pipes model has an outer diameter ranging from ½ to 18in. Wall thickness is 0.8 to 16mm and length can reach 16m. The product is compliant with ASTM, ANSI, DIN, BS and GB standards. Customized designs are accepted. MOQ is 25 metric tons.

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90-degree elbow fitting

Company: China Malleable Pipe Fittings Co. Ltd

China Malleable’s DIY Pipe Fitting 27 model is a 90-degree elbow pipe fitting made of malleable iron. It has a tensile strength of 350MPa or higher. The surface can be galvanized. For an MOQ of 10 pieces, each goes for $0.17.

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PE, HDPE, PTFE, POM or nylon

Company: Shanghai Maya Corp. Ltd

The model Nylonbar003 rod from Shanghai Maya can also be made of PE, HDPE, PTFE or POM. Color can be buyer-specified. The rod is priced at $11.

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Cast iron

Company: Dalian Metal I/E Co. Ltd

Dalian Metal's Combi 2in model is a cast iron pipe fitting that does not need a hub. It meets ASTM A888 and UPC standards. The fitting is fire-resistant. For an MOQ of 420 pieces, each lists at $4.20 to $4.60.

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Cross-type coupling

Company: Kuoauto Imp & Exp Co. Ltd

Shanghai Kuoauto offers the Nipple Reducer Fitting, a 1/2in DN15 female thread cross-type pipe coupling. Outer diameter is from 1/8 to 8in. Wall thickness ranges from 0.5 to 10mm. The product is less than 12m long. It is priced $0.20 to $2. MOQ is 1,000 pieces.

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Clamp, saddle fitting

Company: Ningbo Salvador IMP & EXP Co. Ltd

The 11SPBV-11 model from Ningbo Salvador is a clamp and saddle fitting for irrigation or agriculture. It is made of PP or PE. The product is quoted at $0.47 to $0.52 per carton. MOQ is 10 cartons.

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T-groove

Company: Tianjin Kainuo Industrial Co. Ltd

Tianjin Kainuo's T-groove Hose Clamp 8 model is made of AISI 300 stainless steel. Customized sizes are accepted. For an MOQ of 2,000 pieces, each goes for $0.010 to $2.

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CNC machined

Company: Cangzhou Hengjin Hardware Mfg Co. Ltd

Cangzhou Hengjin’s CNC Machined Parts-8896 model can be made of aluminum, brass, steel or stainless steel. OEM services are available. Price ranges from $7 to $10. MOQ is 100 pieces.

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