Specifications

IS 2062 composition and properties

Sub-grades A, BR, B0 and C differ in impact-test requirements and some limits; sub-grade C has lower sulphur and phosphorus. See IS 2062 for full requirements.

Values for plates, sections, flats and bars to IS 2062.

Sub-grades A, BR, B0 and C set the impact-test requirement; sub-grade C is impact tested at −20 °C. Equivalent international grades are ASTM A36 (E250) and A572 Grade 50 (E350), and EN 10025 S275 / S355.

IS 1239 size and weight chart

Weights are calculated as (OD − t) × t × 0.02466 kg/m for plain-end pipe; galvanised and threaded-and-socketed pipe weigh slightly more. Dimensions are from IS 1239 Part 1 for guidance; please check the current edition. Use our weight calculator for other sizes.

Light, medium or heavy?

Light-class tubes are used for low-pressure and non-critical lines and structural uses; medium class is the standard choice for water, gas and air distribution and plumbing; heavy class is used for higher pressures, threaded joints in demanding service, and firefighting lines where specified. IS 1239 tubes are colour coded at the ends – light, medium and heavy – to make identification easy at site. For larger water mains and pumping lines, IS 3589 pipe is used, and for process piping in plants, ASTM A106 or API 5L pipe.

Protection, storage and fabrication

Mild steel rusts when exposed to moisture, so it is supplied black with a light oil or mill scale, or primed, painted or hot-dip galvanised as ordered. Store material off the ground, under cover where possible, and keep it away from stainless steel to avoid contaminating stainless surfaces. Mild steel cuts, drills, bends and welds easily with standard equipment and consumables; preheat is normally only needed for thick sections or higher-strength grades.

Quality, documents and dispatch

Every supply is checked against the order for grade, size, length and quantity, with heat numbers matched to the mill test certificates. Material is invoiced with GST for supplies in India and dispatched with an e-way bill where required, and exported with the commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin and MTC. Third-party inspection by the buyer's nominated agency can be arranged on request.

IS 1239 and IS 3589 explained

IS 1239 Part 1 covers mild steel tubes from 6 NB to 150 NB for water, gas, air and general purposes, in light, medium and heavy classes, with plain ends or threaded and socketed ends. Threads are to IS 554 (BSP taper). IS 3589 covers larger electrically welded pipes – from about 168 mm OD upward – for water, gas and sewage, in grades Fe 330, Fe 410 and Fe 450, often with external coating and internal lining for water mains. ASTM A53 pipe is used where projects follow American standards.

Galvanised MS pipes

Hot-dip galvanised MS pipes have a zinc coating inside and outside that protects against rust in water and outdoor service, and are standard for plumbing and potable water, firefighting sprinklers and outdoor handrails. Galvanised pipes should be joined by threading or grooved couplings rather than welding, because welding burns off the zinc; any welded areas must be repaired with zinc-rich paint. For buried pipes, additional wrapping or coating is normally specified.

How to order MS pipes

To get an accurate quotation quickly, please give: the standard (IS 1239 or IS 3589), nominal bore or outside diameter, class or wall thickness, black or galvanised, end type, length, quantity and any testing or inspection. If the material is for a project with a specification or drawing, send it with the enquiry so the grade, sub-grade and testing can be matched. For export orders, also give the delivery port and any marking, packing or documentation requirements.

Applications and related products

MS pipes are used for water supply and plumbing, gas and compressed air distribution, firefighting and sprinkler systems, HVAC, scaffolding and fencing, structural columns and handrails, and general fabrication. Other mild steel products: MS sheets, MS plates, MS angles, MS channels, MS flats, MS beams and MS round bars. Grade information is on the mild steel page, and other materials on the welded pipes and tubes page.