You can buy alloy tubes of many different metals for a wide range of purposes. Nearly every industry has tubing of some sort, whether it is simple transport pipes, flexible hoses or standard machined tubes. Finding the right alloy tube for your company can be challenging.

The most common types of alloy tubes are steel, copper and aluminum. These three metals make up the largest percentage of tubes on the market today. Each of these metals has a particular area in which their inherent properties are particularly valuable. Consider the following when looking at alloy tube manufacturers:

1. Stainless steel tubes are easy to clean and sterilize.

2. Copper tubes are unsurpassed in transporting fresh, clean water.

3. Aluminum tubes are light, strong and resist corrosion.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy alloy steel tubes

Stainless steel tubes are widely used in a number of places. Since stainless steel is very easy to sterilize, the most common applications are for industries that have risks of cross contamination. These tubes are especially popular in the medical, petrochemical and fabrication fields.

I recommend: The Greenville Tube Company specializes in stainless steel tubing. They work closely with a wide range of industries. Tube Methods sells several types of tubing and gives a quick example of the uses for each type.

Purchase copper alloy tubes

Copper and brass have been used for thousands of years as a way to transports water and other liquids. They do not flavor the water, nor do they absorb or release harmful material. They also have exceptional thermal qualities with one of the lowest heat transference of any of the common tubing metals.

I recommend: Cole-Palmer has a small selection of copper tubing in stock but has access to much more than what is represented on their website. Brush Wellman keeps a selection of copper alloys on hand but will custom engineer orders to your specifications.

Locate aluminum alloy tubes

Aluminum is light, ductile and corrosion resistant. It can withstand harsh environments and quickly changing local conditions. Its various properties make it well-suited for transporting gasses or transmitting electrical or radio signals. It is also a common choice when a company needs tubing made of a nonferrous metal.

I recommend: Texas Towers primarily sells ham radio antennas, but they are also an aluminum alloy tube distributor. Murphy and Nolan sell aluminum tubes in a variety of shapes and sizes. Metal Supermarkets may be linked under aluminum, but they carry a huge selection of aluminum and other metals in tubes, sheets and bars.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  There are several types of alloy tubes not covered here. Each of these metals has special properties that make them well-suited to a specific circumstance. When you look into alloy tube distributors, make sure you know that the material you are getting is the perfect one for the job.