We’re a tubing specialist that supplies some of the UK’s best steel ERW tubes. They are useful in an ever-growing number of projects. Crucially, they come in many sizes, shapes, and finishes so they meet each client’s diverse needs. Whatever tube it is you are looking for, we’re certain we can provide it.
Why do marine applications use steel tubes?
Steel tubes are popular in marine construction because of the impressive buildability. Apart from its ability to be driven easily for deep foundations, the tubing is durable too. There is also high inertia that counters high pressure and heavy loads from separate directions. Another fact is that steel tubes are fabricated off-site. Thus, they are easier to install to form sea-borne structures or modules.
Even so, exposure to very corrosive marine environments has always been a concern for steel tubes. To lower corrosion’s impact, the tubing can undergo processes like galvanisation. What we want to is discuss some of the applications for the tube here, so read on to learn more.
Bridge construction
Steel tubes are useful for bridges because of their high toughness and load bearing capacity. Both are higher if you compare to other construction materials. This makes them appropriate for bridge construction, particularly ones with longer spans.
In most instances, steel ERW tubes are primarily for bridge foundations. They could be driven piles that act as the actual foundation or as caisson or encasement. These facilitate the pouring of concrete, particularly in underwater settings. Being hollow sections with robust walls, it’s simple to drive the tube into layers of weak soil or rock formations. Here, you can obtain the necessary integrity for foundation works.
Dock construction
Like with bridges, you can drive steel tubes deep into the earth to offer support for docks. They will be part of the foundation or aid with concrete pouring.
In most cases, steel tube with anti-corrosive coatings is best for building docks. Not only will it offer much load bearing capacity, but it also comes with great corrosion resistance. The dock can preserve its structural integrity and ensure a long lifespan.
Combi-wall construction
Many people may not be familiar with combi-walls. They feature a mix of sheet piles and large diameter steel tubes. As opposed to a sheet pile or secant wall, combi-walls come with more durability and strength. This is particularly true against heavy lateral pressure. The steel tube makes up the majority of the wall’s structure. They offer resistance to overturning forces, while sheet piles work as an in-fill between the ERW tubes.
Some construction projects where such walls come into play include jetty and quay wall construction, and port expansion. Pier construction and lake filling are also notable applications.
Trestle construction
Trestle mainly acts as a support structure during bridge construction. It tends to be a temporary structure. Crucially, trestles can work as a foundation. Here, you drive steel tube into the seabed or soil to craft a strong base. To stay in position, the tubes are usually strengthened via reinforced concrete.
Offshore structures
You can use steel tubes in offshore structures like wind turbines, oil rigs, offloading system platforms, and helipads. From driven piles to the most compact structural members, corrosion resistant tubing is favoured in these applications. Their dynamic attributes respond positively to harsh marine environments. Therefore, they can handle strong currents, tidal waves, and fierce winds.
We’ll supply the ERW tubes you need
At Union Steel Tubes, we have what it takes to handle tube orders of any size. At the same time, we can offer an unrivalled level of customer service. You’ll get the best tubing and all the information on them you could want. We can even discuss finishes like galvanisation if you need to enhance the corrosion resistance.
So, if you want to order ERW tubes, please let us know. We’ll ensure you get exactly what you need.
