ASTM Standards for Steel Tubing Assure Quality around the Globe

ASTM standards are known and used worldwide, and products that meet ASTM tubing and structural steel standards are used every day in projects everywhere. Buildings, infrastructure, and drill rigs made with ASTM structural steel use materials designed for effectiveness and worker safety. At Corpac Steel Products, we provide ASTM tubing, pipe, and structural steel worldwide for projects of every type.

Reasons for ASTM Standards

ASTM standards provide a common basis for the buyer-seller relationship. With ASTM standards, customers can specify exactly the product they want, and producers can give accurate quotes to customers. Knowing applicable ASTM standards saves time for both parties and ensures that customers know exactly the product they'll receive. Project managers know when they specify ASTM structural steel or tubing, the product will meet project requirements.

ASTM and the North American Free Trade Agreement

The Canadian Standards Association, or CSA, has in many cases adopted ASTM standards when it has existed prior to a CSA standard. In recent years, the United States' other North American trading partner, Mexico, has worked closely to extend ASTM standards for steel tubular products and other steel products in Mexico. Widespread adoption of ASTM standards in North America helps simplify trade among North American nations.

Industries that Rely on ASTM Steel Products

Most people naturally think of the petroleum drilling and distribution industry when they think of structural steel and steel tubing, but many industries rely on ASTM structural steel. Water supply and sewage industries use structural steel, steel pipe, and tubing, as do the following industries:

·         Nonferrous metal refineries
·         Pulp and paper production
·         Pharmaceuticals
·         Chemical manufacturing
·         Food processing
·         Mining

The Product Isn't the Whole Story

As important as ASTM and other standard products are to successful projects, the products don't tell the whole story. Some projects require products immediately, while others require them to be delivered over a set timetable. Steel suppliers should have the expertise in the logistics of delivery that allow them to meet customer requirements consistently. At Corpac Steel Products, we not only have the products customers require, we have the knowledge and experience needed to deliver on time whatever the project timetable.

What Should You Expect from the Steel Supplier You Choose?

The steel industry has undergone many changes in the past five years as changing supply and demand conditions have been felt worldwide. Demand for steel used in automobile production dropped in the US, but increased energy drilling products in the US and worldwide have increased need for drilling and pipeline products. Corpac Steel Products is a steel manufacturer with a wide range of steel products to serve the energy, infrastructure, and construction trades worldwide.

Tubular Products for the Energy Industry

The energy industry requires carbon and alloy products for upstream, midstream, and downstream operations. Steel manufacturers must meet international specifications and standards developed for petroleum exploration and production, natural gas recovery and transport, well operation, petroleum processing, storage, transport and distribution. Suppliers must have the products and the logistics expertise to meet diverse needs in far flung locations.

Standard Pipe and Tubing Production and Distribution

Standard pipe and tubing includes carbon and alloy products used in a wide range of applications. These products may be used for conveyance of liquids, gases, and slurries, or they may be used in structural applications. As with energy industry steel products, steel distributors for pipe and tubing must meet rigorous international specifications and standards to meet the requirements of their specific applications.

Structural Steel Products

Structural steel is used in infrastructure projects and building projects and comes in many cross-sectional shapes. Structural products include seamless and welded steel pipe as well as steel plate, and various types of beams, like I-beams and wide flange beams. The steel distributor you choose should be able to advise you knowledgeably about these products and have the necessary experience to meet your delivery requirements.

Logistics Expertise to Meet Project Demands Worldwide

Having the right products is only the beginning. Many projects today take place in remote areas and delivery can involve crossing numerous international borders. Your steel supplier should have the experience necessary to deal with customs and with last mile delivery so you can stay on schedule. At Corpac Steel Products, our reputation is built on having the right products and working with customers to make them arrive at the right place at the right time.

Drill Pipe Considerations for HDD Projects

Horizontal directional drilling, or HDD, is a trenchless technique for installing underground pipes. The pipes are installed along a bore path with a surface drilling rig, and done correctly minimizes impact on the surroundings. HDD is often used when trenching is not practical, and works with many soil conditions. At Corpac Steel Products, we are drill pipe manufacturers who understand the special needs of HDD projects.

Physical Properties That Must Be Considered

Drill pipe for HDD projects must be of the correct diameter, with an appropriate wall thickness, and the proper grade of steel for the conditions. Torsional stiffness is important for extended reach projects. With wall thickness, generally thicker means stronger, but there are exceptions. Modern steel alloys address the HDD project's need for pipe that's tougher. Drill pipe manufacturers should have the knowledge to understand the needs of HDD projects so that there are no misunderstandings.

Choosing a Supplier

If you're purchasing new pipe for your HDD project, thoroughly examine the quality control standards of the drill pipe suppliers you are considering. You should also choose a drill pipe supplier with the necessary engineering expertise to understand why you need what you need. Drill pipe suppliers should be about more than looking up inventory and quoting prices.

Planning for Delivery

You're better off planning your drill pipe purchases far enough in advance to find the selection and availability you need. What you don't want is to have to make a choice of "good enough" pipe that's in stock. Evaluate suppliers early so that you can order far enough in advance to get the exact pipe you want rather than running short on time and having to choose only from in stock pipe.

What to Expect from Your Supplier

Choose a drill pipe supplier who can provide reference material about their products to help you make the best decision on drill pipe. They should also offer inspection reports and calculations that can help you choose wisely. Furthermore, your supplier should have extensive logistics expertise to help you keep your project on schedule and on budget. At Corpac Steel Products, we deliver more than just steel pipe: we deliver peace of mind.