What are the two main categories of manufactured steel piping?

The correct response identifies the two main categories of manufactured steel piping as seamless and welded.

Seamless piping is produced through a process that involves forming the pipe without any welding along its length. This method results in a strong and uniform pipe, ideal for high-pressure applications or situations where the integrity of the pipe is crucial. Seamless pipes are typically made from solid round steel billets that are heated and then pushed or pulled to form the pipe, ensuring there are no weak points that could be found in joints.

Welded piping, on the other hand, is produced by welding together flat pieces of steel to form a pipe. This method allows for more economical production and can produce pipes of varying sizes and thicknesses. While welded pipes can be more susceptible to corrosion at the joints, advancements in welding techniques have significantly improved their strength and reliability.

The distinction between these two types is important in selecting piping for specific engineering applications, as each type has its advantages and limitations depending on the service conditions and requirements of the system being designed.