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When it comes to welded steel pipes used in infrastructure, oil & gas, water transmission, and construction projects, understanding the key differences between LSAW and SSAW steel pipes is essential. These two types of pipes serve distinct roles in engineering, and choosing the right one can directly impact the success and durability of your project.
At Hebei Leading, a trusted supplier and manufacturer of high-quality steel pipes in China, we offer a full range of welded pipe solutions, including both LSAW (Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welded) and SSAW (Spiral Submerged Arc Welded) pipes. In this article, we break down the differences, applications, and technical characteristics of both.
LSAW (Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welded) steel pipes are manufactured by bending and welding steel plates along a longitudinal seam. This method ensures high dimensional accuracy and a strong weld joint. LSAW pipes are commonly used in oil and gas pipelines, urban water supply, and high-pressure transmission lines.
Straight seam welding improves overall pipe strength
Ideal for large-diameter, high-pressure applications
Excellent dimensional tolerance and uniform wall thickness
Suitable for onshore and offshore pipelines
Hebei Leading's LSAW pipes are produced in compliance with international standards like API 5L, ISO 3183, and more, making them suitable for critical infrastructure.
SSAW (Spiral Submerged Arc Welded) steel pipes, also known as spiral welded pipes, are produced by spirally forming hot-rolled steel coils and welding along the spiral seam. They are widely used in low-pressure water delivery, drainage systems, and construction piling due to their lower cost and high flexibility in length and diameter.
Cost-effective for large-diameter pipe requirements
Greater flexibility in pipe diameter (up to 3048mm)
Continuous spiral welding process allows longer lengths
Best suited for low-pressure applications
At Hebei Leading, we produce SSAW pipes using advanced welding machines with automatic tracking systems, ensuring weld quality and consistency across long lengths.
Here's a detailed side-by-side comparison of the two types of pipes:
| Feature | LSAW Pipe | SSAW Pipe |
|---|---|---|
| Welding Type | Longitudinal submerged arc welded | Spiral submerged arc welded |
| Production Method | Welded from steel plates (JCOE, UOE) | Spiral-forming from steel coils |
| Diameter Range | 406mm – 1626mm (approx.) | 219mm – 3048mm (wider range) |
| Wall Thickness | Uniform and precise | May vary depending on spiral angle |
| Pressure Rating | Suitable for high-pressure pipelines | Typically used for low-medium pressure |
| Strength & Reliability | Higher, due to straight seam | Slightly lower, potential for seam stress |
| Common Standards | API 5L, EN10219, ISO 3183 | API 5L, SY/T5037 |
| Applications | Oil & gas, high-pressure lines, offshore | Water, sewage, piling, structural use |
Choose LSAW pipes when your project demands:
High-pressure performance
Precision in diameter and wall thickness
Critical fluid transmission (oil, natural gas, etc.)
Compliance with international pipeline standards
They are ideal for:
Offshore pipelines
Cross-country oil & gas transmission
Large infrastructure projects
Choose SSAW pipes for:
Budget-sensitive projects
Non-critical fluid or structural applications
Larger diameter requirements without high pressure
They are perfect for:
City drainage systems
Structural columns or foundations
Irrigation water transport
As a professional steel pipe manufacturer in China, Hebei Leading provides both LSAW and SSAW pipes with strict quality control, on-time delivery, and customized technical support.
20+ years experience in steel pipe manufacturing
Full compliance with API 5L, ASTM, EN, and ISO standards
Exported to over 30 countries worldwide
High-capacity production lines for quick delivery
Custom coating and anti-corrosion treatments available
For example, our technical support services include welding inspection, hydrostatic pressure testing, ultrasonic testing, and customer-specific pipe marking. Visit our Technical Support page for more.
Choosing between LSAW and SSAW steel pipes depends on your project's engineering requirements, pressure levels, and cost considerations. While LSAW pipes provide superior mechanical strength and are ideal for high-pressure systems, SSAW pipes offer a more economical option for structural and low-pressure needs.
With Hebei Leading, you're not just buying a pipe — you’re partnering with a reliable, experienced, and technically capable manufacturer.
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No.68 Hezuo Road, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province, China 
