ERW Pipe for Fire Fighting: Specifications, Standards and Applications Guide
2026-04-16
ERW Pipe for Fire Fighting: Specifications, Standards and Applications Guide
What Is ERW Pipe for Fire Fighting?
Compared with other pipe types, ERW fire fighting pipe offers several advantages, including high production efficiency, stable quality, and cost-effectiveness. With tighter dimensional tolerances and relatively lighter weight, ERW pipe is widely used in fire sprinkler pipe systems and other fire protection applications.
Fire fighting pipes are used to transport fire extinguishing media such as water, gas, or foam. Since fire protection pipelines often remain in standby mode for long periods, they must meet strict requirements for pressure resistance, corrosion resistance, and durability.
ERW pipe for fire fighting refers to steel pipes manufactured using electric resistance welding technology and specifically designed for fire protection systems. Electric Resistance Welded (ERW) pipes are produced by continuously forming steel coils into tubular shapes and welding the seam using high-frequency electrical resistance.
What Standards Apply to Fire Fighting ERW Pipes?
To ensure safety and reliability, ERW pipe for fire fighting must comply with recognized international standards. These standards define material requirements, dimensions, pressure ratings, and performance characteristics for fire sprinkler pipe and fire fighting pipe systems.
Below are the most commonly used standards for fire fighting pipe specifications worldwide:
Commonly Used Standards for Fire Fighting Pipes
EN 10255
Non-alloy steel pipes suitable for welding and threading, typically using material grade S195T. This standard is widely used in Europe and international fire protection steel pipe applications.
ASTM A53
One of the most widely used fire fighting pipe standards in North America. It covers both seamless pipes (Type S) and ERW welded pipes (Type E). Grade B is commonly used for fire sprinkler pipe systems.
ASTM A795
A dedicated standard for fire sprinkler pipe applications. It includes multiple wall thickness options such as SCH 10, SCH 40, and SCH 80, making it suitable for different pressure requirements.
BS 1387
Previously widely used in the United Kingdom. Although replaced by EN 10255, it is still used in some fire fighting pipe projects.
Fire Fighting Pipe Specifications by Standard
EN 10255 Standard Specifications
Medium Series
- Outer Diameter: 21.3 mm – 165.1 mm
- Wall Thickness: 2.6 mm – 5.0 mm
Heavy Series
- Outer Diameter: 21.3 mm – 165.1 mm
- Wall Thickness: 3.2 mm – 5.4 mm
These specifications are commonly used for ERW pipe for fire fighting in European projects.
ASTM Standard Specifications
ASTM A53 Grade B ERW Pipe
- Nominal Size: NPS 1" – 6"
- Outer Diameter: 33.4 mm – 168.3 mm
- Wall Thickness: SCH 40
ASTM A53 Grade B is widely used for fire sprinkler pipe and general fire protection steel pipe systems.
ASTM A795 Fire Fighting Pipe
ASTM A795 includes three common wall thickness options:
SCH 10
Thin wall, lightweight, and cost-effective. Commonly used in indoor fire sprinkler pipe branch lines.
SCH 40
Standard wall thickness and the most widely used option. Typically applied in fire risers and main fire fighting pipe systems.
SCH 80
Thick wall and high strength. Suitable for high-pressure systems and exposed fire protection steel pipe installations.
These specifications are commonly used for fire fighting pipe installations in Indian and Middle Eastern markets.
