When your business requires steel tubes and tubing, narrowing down the right company for your business could be quite a project if you don't know where to look. With so many steel tube distributors available, you need to locate the companies that carry the steel tubing and tubes your company uses. Steel tubes and steel tubing prices vary widely from one company to another.

There are three basic types of steel tubes and tubing: stainless steel, alloy and carbon. Reading information about steel tubing and tubes will give you a better knowledge of what you may need. When researching steel tube distributors, remember to:

1. Review the steel tube companies and products, making sure the supplier you choose carries all the types of tubing you need.

2. Get quotes and examine the price list so you can adequately compare prices on steel tubes and shipping costs.

3. Look at the quality of steel tubes they provide to ensure you buy the best within your budget.

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

Find the exact stainless steel pipes and tubes your company needs

Stainless steel pipes and tubes are available in various sizes and quantises. Stainless steel tubing is resistant to corrosion and temperature changes.

I recommend: Browse the product line and request prices of stainless steel tubes at the Greenville Tube Company. Visit Eagle Stainless for stainless steel tubing in various OD dimensions and wall sizes with no minimum footage required. Search through the large inventory on the MicroGroup website to locate the stainless steel tubing you need.

Buy alloy steel tubes and tubing for top durability

Alloy steel tubes and tubing are harder than carbon tubes and have improved abrasion resistance. These qualities are good for structures and sliding parts.

I recommend: Request a quote for the alloy and carbon tubes available from Leeco Steel. Visit the Federal Steel Supply website to request a brochure and get a quote on various sizes of alloy steel tubes. Review all the product available at the Online Metals website.

Purchase carbon steel tubes and tubing

Carbon steel tubes are normally classified as ERW Pipe, DSAW Pipe, Spiral Weld Pipe and x-grades. Carbon steel pipe is usually galvanized and can withstand high pressure and changing temperatures.

I recommend: Romar Pipe & Rail has a large variety of carbon steel tubes and tubing. They will also fabricate the right size carbon tubes in the dimensions you need. Visit Aladdin Steel to get prices on carbon tubing in sizes that range from 1/4 inch to 16 inches in diameter. Browse through the steel tubes available at GoodLuck Steel and request a quote before you buy steel tubing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Steel tubing quality varies by manufacturer. If the quality of your tubing is substandard, locate another manufacturer for your tubing needs.