API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipe: The Complete Guide for 2025
February 20, 2025
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Introduction to API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipe
API 5L Gr. B spiral pipe is a high-strength, welded steel pipe widely used in oil and gas pipelines, water transmission, construction, and industrial applications. Manufactured using the spiral submerged arc welding (SSAW) process, these pipes offer excellent mechanical properties, durability, and cost-effectiveness for low to medium-pressure applications.
API 5L Gr. B is one of the most common steel grades in the API 5L standard, offering good weldability, corrosion resistance, and strength for various pipeline projects.
Why Choose API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipe?
✔ Cost-effective solution for large-diameter pipelines
✔ Complies with API 5L standards for oil, gas, and water pipelines
✔ Good weldability and mechanical performance
✔ Available in multiple coatings for enhanced corrosion resistance
✔ Widely used in oil & gas, construction, and infrastructure projects
This guide will cover API 5L Gr. B spiral pipe specifications, pricing, manufacturing process, key suppliers, and comparison with other API 5L grades.
API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipe Specifications & Standards
API 5L Gr. B spiral pipes must meet specific mechanical, chemical, and dimensional requirements to ensure high quality and reliability.

Chemical Composition Requirements
Element | Max Percentage (%) |
---|---|
Carbon (C) | 0.26 |
Manganese (Mn) | 1.20 |
Phosphorus (P) | 0.030 |
Sulfur (S) | 0.030 |
Mechanical Properties
Property | Value |
---|---|
Yield Strength | ≥ 245 MPa |
Tensile Strength | 415 – 550 MPa |
Elongation | ≥ 22% |
Dimensional Specifications
✔ Diameter Range: Φ219mm – Φ3500mm
✔ Wall Thickness: 6mm – 26mm
✔ Pipe Length: 6m, 9m, 12m, or customized
✔ End Finish: Plain end, bevelled end, threaded & coupled
Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group provides high-quality API 5L Gr. B spiral pipes that meet international standards.
API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipe vs. API 5L X42/X52: Key Differences
API 5L Gr. B is a widely used standard grade, but how does it compare to other pipeline steel grades like X42 and X52?
Feature | API 5L Gr. B | API 5L X42 | API 5L X52 |
---|---|---|---|
Yield Strength (MPa) | 245 | 290 | 360 |
Tensile Strength (MPa) | 415 – 550 | 415 – 580 | 460 – 630 |
Application | Low to medium pressure pipelines | Medium-pressure pipelines | High-pressure pipelines |
Cost | Lower | Medium | Higher |
Weldability | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
Which One Should You Choose?
✔ For low to medium-pressure pipelines → API 5L Gr. B is an economical choice
✔ For slightly higher pressure applications → API 5L X42 is preferred
✔ For high-strength, high-pressure pipelines → API 5L X52 is recommended
Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group manufactures various API 5L grades to meet different project requirements.
API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipe Price Per Ton (2025)
The price of API 5L Gr. B spiral pipes depends on factors like diameter, wall thickness, steel grade, and coatings. Below is an estimated wholesale price per ton for 2025:
Wall Thickness (mm) | Price Per Ton (USD) |
---|---|
6 – 10 mm | 600−600 – 600−850 |
12 – 18 mm | 800−800 – 800−1,100 |
20 – 26 mm | 1,050−1,050 – 1,050−1,400 |
Factors Affecting Pricing
✔ Steel Grade: Higher grades (like X42, X52) cost more.
✔ Customization: Coatings, special dimensions, and end finishes increase the price.
✔ Order Quantity: Bulk purchases lower costs per ton.
✔ Shipping Costs: Prices vary depending on destination and freight charges.
Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group offers competitive pricing for bulk API 5L Gr. B spiral pipe orders.
Best API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipe Suppliers in China
1. Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group Co., Ltd (Best for Large-Scale Projects)
✔ 27+ years of experience in SSAW pipe manufacturing
✔ 13 production lines, 400,000 tons annual capacity
✔ Certified by API 5L, ASTM A252, GB/T9711, ISO 9001
✔ Custom coatings available: FBE, 3LPE, and 3LPP
📍 Location: No. 92, Jiefang East Road, Xinhua District, Cangzhou, China
📞 Contact: Request a Quote
2. Hengyang Valin Steel Tube Co., Ltd (Best for Oil & Gas Pipelines)
✔ Specializes in API 5L-certified SSAW pipes for energy projects
✔ Advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) and quality control
📍 Location: Hengyang, China
📞 Contact: Request a Quote
Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group is a trusted supplier of API 5L Gr. B spiral pipes, offering global shipping and competitive pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipes
Question | Answer |
---|---|
What is API 5L Gr. B spiral pipe used for? | Oil & gas pipelines, water transmission, piling, and structural applications. |
What coatings are available for API 5L Gr. B pipes? | 3LPE, 3LPP, FBE, and Coal Tar Epoxy. |
How long does it take to manufacture API 5L Gr. B pipes? | Typically 15-45 days, depending on order size. |
Can API 5L Gr. B pipes be customized? | Yes, custom diameters, thicknesses, and coatings are available. |
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for API 5L Gr. B pipes? | MOQ depends on the supplier, but bulk orders (50+ tons) receive better pricing. |
API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipe Coating & Corrosion Protection
Why Is Coating Important for API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipes?
API 5L Gr. B spiral pipes are used in oil, gas, water transmission, and structural applications, where they are exposed to moisture, soil chemicals, and corrosive environments. Without proper coating, pipes can rust, weaken, and fail over time, leading to increased maintenance costs and potential pipeline failures.
Types of Coatings for API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipes
Coating Type | Best For | Corrosion Resistance | Temperature Resistance | Advantages |
---|---|---|---|---|
Fusion Bonded Epoxy (FBE) | Oil & gas pipelines | High | Up to 85°C | Strong adhesion, chemical resistance, smooth surface |
3-Layer Polyethylene (3LPE) | Underground pipelines | Very High | Up to 85°C | Excellent corrosion protection, high impact resistance |
3-Layer Polypropylene (3LPP) | Offshore pipelines | Very High | Up to 140°C | High impact resistance, superior mechanical strength |
Coal Tar Epoxy (CTE) | Marine environments | Very High | Up to 100°C | Cost-effective, effective in high-moisture areas |
Galvanized Coating | Structural applications | Moderate | Up to 60°C | Affordable, suitable for general-purpose use |
Choosing the Right Coating for Your Project
✔ For underground pipelines → 3LPE or 3LPP is best
✔ For offshore applications → 3LPP or Coal Tar Epoxy works well
✔ For industrial water pipelines → FBE provides excellent protection
Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group offers customized coating solutions to meet specific project requirements.

How to Import API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipes from China?
Step-by-Step Guide to Importing API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipes
✔ Step 1: Choose a Reliable Supplier
- Verify API 5L, ASTM, and ISO certifications
- Check production capacity and quality standards
- Request product samples and factory inspections
✔ Step 2: Request a Quotation
- Provide pipe specifications (diameter, thickness, steel grade, coating type)
- Get pricing for FOB, CIF, or EXW terms
✔ Step 3: Negotiate Terms & Finalize Order
- Discuss payment terms (T/T, L/C, etc.)
- Confirm production lead time and delivery schedule
✔ Step 4: Quality Inspection & Testing
- Arrange for third-party inspection (SGS, BV, etc.)
- Ensure compliance with contract specifications
✔ Step 5: Shipping & Customs Clearance
- Work with freight forwarders for smooth logistics
- Submit necessary customs documents (Bill of Lading, Packing List, Commercial Invoice, etc.)
Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group provides hassle-free export services, ensuring timely delivery worldwide.
Global Market Demand for API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipes
Why Are API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipes in High Demand?
✔ Growing Oil & Gas Infrastructure – Demand for reliable pipelines for crude oil, natural gas, and petroleum transport is increasing.
✔ Water Transmission Projects – Governments are investing in large-scale water pipelines for municipal supply and irrigation.
✔ Industrial Growth – Steel pipelines are widely used in power plants, refineries, and chemical industries.
✔ Structural & Piling Applications – SSAW pipes provide cost-effective solutions for bridges, buildings, and marine foundations.
Top Importing Regions for API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipes
Region | Key Applications | Demand (%) |
---|---|---|
North America (USA, Canada) | Oil & gas pipelines, water transmission | 30% |
Europe (Germany, UK, France) | Industrial piping, offshore projects | 20% |
Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia) | Oil pipelines, desalination plants | 25% |
Southeast Asia (India, Indonesia) | Infrastructure, water supply | 15% |
Africa & Latin America | Mining, energy, construction | 10% |
Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group exports high-quality API 5L Gr. B spiral pipes to over 50 countries worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipes
Question | Answer |
---|---|
What is API 5L Gr. B spiral pipe used for? | Oil & gas pipelines, water transmission, piling, and structural applications. |
What coatings are available for API 5L Gr. B pipes? | 3LPE, 3LPP, FBE, and Coal Tar Epoxy. |
How long does it take to manufacture API 5L Gr. B pipes? | Typically 15-45 days, depending on order size. |
Can API 5L Gr. B pipes be customized? | Yes, custom diameters, thicknesses, and coatings are available. |
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for API 5L Gr. B pipes? | MOQ depends on the supplier, but bulk orders (50+ tons) receive better pricing. |
How does API 5L Gr. B compare to other grades like X42 and X52? | Gr. B is for low-to-medium pressure, while X42/X52 offer higher strength. |
Do API 5L Gr. B pipes require third-party inspection? | Not mandatory, but recommended for large projects. |
Can Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group export to my country? | Yes, we export to over 50 countries worldwide. |
Final Thoughts: Why Choose Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group for API 5L Gr. B Spiral Pipes?
For high-quality API 5L Gr. B spiral pipes, Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group Co., Ltd is your trusted supplier in 2025!
✔ 27+ years of experience in SSAW pipe manufacturing
✔ 400,000 tons annual production capacity
✔ Certified by API 5L, ASTM, GB/T, ISO 9001
✔ Custom sizes, coatings, and global shipping
✔ Competitive pricing for bulk orders
📞 Need a bulk quote or technical consultation? Contact Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipes Group today!