Galvanized Pipe is carbon steel pipe that has been coated with a protective layer of zinc. The zinc acts as a sacrificial layer that will rust before the steel underneath does, extending the life of the pipe by 50+ years in outdoor environments.
Standard Dimensions & Weights
The table below details the most common sizes for galvanized pipe (ASTM A53). Weights include the added mass of the zinc coating.
| Nominal Size | O.D. | Schedule 40 (Standard) | Schedule 80 (Extra Heavy) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wall (in) | Weight (lb/ft) | Wall (in) | Weight (lb/ft) | ||
| 1/2" | 0.840" | 0.109" | 0.85 | 0.147" | 1.09 |
| 3/4" | 1.050" | 0.113" | 1.13 | 0.154" | 1.48 |
| 1" | 1.315" | 0.133" | 1.68 | 0.179" | 2.17 |
| 1-1/4" | 1.660" | 0.140" | 2.27 | 0.191" | 3.00 |
| 1-1/2" | 1.900" | 0.145" | 2.72 | 0.200" | 3.63 |
| 2" | 2.375" | 0.154" | 3.66 | 0.218" | 5.03 |
| 2-1/2" | 2.875" | 0.203" | 5.80 | 0.276" | 7.67 |
| 3" | 3.500" | 0.216" | 7.58 | 0.300" | 10.26 |
| 4" | 4.500" | 0.237" | 10.89 | 0.337" | 15.00 |
| 6" | 6.625" | 0.280" | 18.99 | 0.432" | 28.60 |
Manufacturing Types
1. Hot-Dip Galvanized
The pipe is dipped into a bath of molten zinc (850°F). This coats the inside and outside with a thick, dull grey layer. This is the most durable method (ASTM A123).
2. Pre-Galvanized (In-Line)
Made from a steel sheet that was galvanized before being rolled into a tube. The exterior is shiny/silver, but the coating is thinner. The weld seam is sprayed with zinc after welding.
Pipe vs. Fittings
If you are building handrails or plumbing systems, you will need to connect the pipe. Because welding destroys the zinc coating (and releases toxic fumes), galvanized systems typically use Threaded Connections.
Galvanized Pipe Fittings
Standard galvanized pipe (Schedule 40) is thick enough to be threaded. You can screw it directly into Malleable Iron Galvanized Fittings (Elbows, Tees, Flanges). This creates a rust-proof mechanical joint without the need for welding or painting.
View Fittings Catalog →Galvanized FAQ
Common safety and application questions.
Size Calculator
Calculate weight and dimensions for standard Schedule 40 vs extra heavy Schedule 80.
Pipe Schedule Chart