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Schedule 20 Steel Pipe: A Complete Guide to Thickness, Dimensions, Pressure Rating & Applications
When selecting steel pipes for low-pressure or lightweight structural applications, Schedule 20 steel pipe emerges as a smart choice. With its thin wall, it offers cost-effective performance without compromising structural stability in the right scenarios.
In this comprehensive blog by Mahadev Dairy Pharma Fittings, we’ll take a deep dive into:
- What Schedule 20 pipe is
- Standard thickness and dimension chart
- Pressure rating data
- Weight calculation
- Stainless steel vs. carbon steel comparison
- Applications across industries
- Supplier guidance
What is Schedule 20 Steel Pipe?
Schedule 20 (SCH 20) steel pipe refers to a pipe classification based on wall thickness. The term “schedule” is used under ASME/ANSI B36.10 (for carbon steel) and ASME B36.19 (for stainless steel), representing a pipe’s pressure-handling capacity indirectly.
Compared to Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 pipes, Schedule 20 is much thinner and lighter, designed primarily for low-pressure or non-pressure-bearing applications such as:
- Support frameworks
- Sanitary fittings
- Decorative structures
- Low-pressure water transport
- Light chemical conveyance
Schedule 20 Steel Pipe Thickness & Dimensions
| Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) | Outside Diameter (OD) | Wall Thickness (in) | Wall Thickness (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | 0.84 in | 0.065 in | 1.65 mm |
| 1 inch | 1.315 in | 0.095 in | 2.41 mm |
| 2 inch | 2.375 in | 0.125 in | 3.18 mm |
| 4 inch | 4.5 in | 0.148 in | 3.76 mm |
| 6 inch | 6.625 in | 0.175 in | 4.44 mm |
| 8 inch | 8.625 in | 0.188 in | 4.78 mm |
Note: Wall thickness may vary slightly based on stainless or carbon steel manufacturing specifications.
Schedule 20 Pipe Pressure Rating
Due to the thinner wall, Schedule 20 pipe has a limited pressure rating, usually suitable for:
- Low-pressure water systems
- Venting systems
- Non-corrosive chemical lines
Approximate Pressure Ratings:
| Pipe Size | Material | Pressure Rating (psi) |
|---|---|---|
| 1″ | Carbon Steel | 150 – 200 psi |
| 2″ | Stainless Steel 304 | 100 – 160 psi |
| 2″ | Stainless Steel 316 | 110 – 170 psi |
Always check with ASME or manufacturer data before installation in pressure systems.
Weight of Schedule 20 Steel Pipe
Why does weight matter?
In large structures and mechanical assemblies, lighter pipes reduce load, installation time, and cost.
| Pipe Size | Approx. Weight (lbs/ft) | Approx. Weight (kg/m) |
|---|---|---|
| 1″ | 1.27 | 1.89 |
| 2″ | 4.33 | 6.45 |
| 4″ | 9.42 | 14.01 |
Mahadev Dairy Pharma Fittings offers custom-cut lengths and material test certificates (MTC) for precise weight-based planning.
Stainless Steel vs Carbon Steel – Schedule 20 Pipes
| Feature | Stainless Steel (304/316) | Carbon Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent (ideal for pharma/dairy use) | Moderate to poor |
| Surface Finish | Polished, brushed, mirror | Black or galvanized |
| Sanitary Compatibility | High (used in dairy, food, pharma systems) | Low |
| Weight | Slightly heavier than carbon steel | Lighter in same schedule |
| Price | Higher initial cost | Lower cost, higher maintenance |
| Weldability | Excellent | Excellent |
Use stainless Schedule 20 pipes in industries like dairy, beverage, pharma, or chemical.
Use carbon steel Schedule 20 pipes for structural supports, irrigation, or low-pressure frameworks.
For reliable supply, explore our Stainless Steel Tube Manufacturer page.
Applications of Schedule 20 Pipes
- Sanitary piping in pharma, dairy, and beverage industries
- Structural framework for lightweight construction
- Air and ventilation ducts
- Furniture manufacturing
- Low-pressure water transport in agriculture
- Architectural designs – handrails, stands, and racks
Also, check our dedicated Stainless Steel Boiler Tube for heat-intensive applications.
Why Choose Mahadev Dairy Pharma Fittings?
At Mahadev Dairy Pharma Fittings, we specialize in:
- Stainless Steel Pipes (Schedule 5, 10, 20, 40, 80)
- Sanitary Pipe Fittings – SMS, DIN, 3A Standards
- Pharma-grade piping with full traceability
- Welded & seamless pipe options in 304, 304L, 316, 316L
We ensure:
- ISO & ASTM-certified pipes
- Competitive bulk pricing
- On-time delivery
- Custom cutting, polishing, and test reports available
Need flanges to match your piping project? Visit our Stainless Steel Flanges Manufacturer section.
Q1: What is the wall thickness of Schedule 20 steel pipe?
It varies by size. For example, a 2” SCH 20 pipe has a wall thickness of approx. 0.125 inches (3.18 mm).
Q2: Is Schedule 20 pipe suitable for dairy and pharma use?
Yes, when made from stainless steel (304/316), Schedule 20 pipes are widely used in hygienic environments like dairy, food processing, and pharmaceutical industries.
Q3: What’s the pressure rating of a Schedule 20 stainless steel pipe?
Typically ranges from 100 to 170 psi depending on the pipe size and grade (304 vs 316).
Q4: Where can I buy Schedule 20 steel pipes in India?
You can purchase high-quality Schedule 20 pipes directly from Mahadev Dairy Pharma Fittings or via platforms like IndiaMART and local steel dealers.
Q5: What finishing options are available for Schedule 20 stainless pipes?
Mill finish, brushed, and mirror-polished finishes are commonly available to suit both structural and hygienic uses.
