Introduction: How to Choose the Right Titanium Pipe Standard?
Titanium pipes are widely valued in industrial applications for their excellent corrosion resistance, high strength-to-weight ratio, and superior heat resistance. However, when faced with the choice between ASTM B861 (seamless titanium pipe) and ASTM B862 (welded titanium pipe), many buyers and engineers struggle to decide. This article compares these two standards in terms of corrosion resistance, strength, cost, and applications to help you select the most suitable titanium pipe.
1. Key Differences Between ASTM B861 and ASTM B862
(1) Different Manufacturing Processes
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ASTM B861: Uses seamless extrusion, making it ideal for high-pressure and high-temperature environments.
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ASTM B862: Uses welding technology, offering lower costs and suitability for medium-to-low pressure applications.
(2) Mechanical Properties Comparison
| Property | ASTM B861 (Seamless) | ASTM B862 (Welded) |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | Higher (no weld weakness) | Slightly lower (affected by the weld) |
| Pressure Resistance | Suitable for high-pressure systems | Suitable for medium/low-pressure systems |
| Corrosion Resistance | Uniform, no weld corrosion risk | Weld may become a corrosion initiation point |
(3) Cost Differences
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ASTM B861: Higher price, but longer lifespan—ideal for critical equipment.
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ASTM B862: More cost-effective, suitable for budget-conscious projects requiring titanium performance.
2. Industry Applications: Which Titanium Pipe is Right for You?
(1) Industries Best Suited for ASTM B861 Seamless Titanium Pipes
✅ Oil & Gas (high-pressure pipelines, subsea equipment)
✅ Chemical Processing (transport of strong acids/alkalis)
✅ Nuclear Power & Aerospace (high-reliability needs in extreme environments)
(2) Industries Best Suited for ASTM B862 Welded Titanium Pipes
✅ Desalination (low-pressure heat exchangers)
✅ Food & Pharmaceutical (non-high-pressure sanitary piping)
✅ Construction & Shipbuilding (cost-sensitive applications)
3. How to Choose? Key Decision Factors
| Consideration | Choose ASTM B861 | Choose ASTM B862 |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Higher | Lower |
| Pressure Requirements | High-pressure (≥1000 psi) | Medium/low-pressure (<1000 psi) |
| Corrosion Resistance Needs | Extreme (e.g., chlor-alkali industry) | Moderate (e.g., seawater) |
| Long-Term Maintenance Costs | Lower (more durable) | Higher (may require replacement) |
4. Conclusion: ASTM B861 vs ASTM B862 – Which Should You Choose?
If you need maximum reliability, high-pressure resistance, and strong corrosion resistance, ASTM B861 seamless titanium pipe is a better choice. If your project has budget constraints and operates in milder conditions, ASTM B862 welded titanium pipe still delivers solid performance.
Recommended Next Steps
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High-pressure/corrosive environment? → Choose ASTM B861
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Budget-focused/low-pressure application? → Choose ASTM B862
Whichever titanium pipe you need, ensure you source from reputable suppliers to guarantee material compliance. Contact us for further consultation! Email:linhui@lhtitanium.com
