Steel Pipe End Types: Plain, Beveled, Threaded Explained

When ordering steel pipes for construction, oil & gas, or industrial projects, one critical specification is often overlooked: the pipe end type. The end finish affects how pipes connect, seal, and perform under pressure. This guide breaks down the three main steel pipe end types and helps you choose the right one for your application.

1. Plain End (PE)

Plain end pipes are cut square with no additional processing on the pipe ends. They are the most basic and economical end type, commonly used for smaller diameter pipes (typically under DN50) or pipes that will be welded with socket-weld fittings.

Key characteristics:

• Flat, square-cut surface
• Used with socket weld fittings or couplings
• Most common for small-bore pipes (½”–2″)
• Lowest cost among all end types

Standards: ASTM A53, API 5L — plain end is the default for pipes under NPS 2 unless otherwise specified.

2. Beveled End (BE)

Beveled end pipes have their ends cut at a specific angle (typically 30°–37.5°) to prepare for butt-weld connections. This is the standard end type for pipes NPS 2 and above that will be welded in the field.

Key characteristics:

• 37.5° standard bevel angle (per API 5L and ASME B16.25)
• Includes a 1.6mm flat land at the tip
• Enables full-penetration butt welding
• Required for high-pressure pipeline applications

Standards: API 5L, ASME B16.25, EN 10228. Bevel angles vary by standard — API specifies 37.5° while some European projects use 30°.

3. Threaded End (TE)

Threaded end pipes feature male threads machined on the outside of the pipe ends, allowing them to screw into couplings or fittings. This end type is essential for applications where welding is impractical or prohibited.

Key characteristics:

• NPT (National Pipe Taper) or BSP (British Standard Pipe) threads
• No welding required — mechanical connection
• Ideal for low-pressure utilities, instrument lines
• Can be combined with couplings for easy assembly/disassembly

Standards: ASME B1.20.1 (NPT), ISO 7-1 (BSP). Threads must be cut to precise taper specifications for leak-tight connections.

How to Choose the Right End Type

The choice depends on three factors:

1. Pipe diameter: Small pipes (under 2″) often use plain or threaded ends; large pipes typically use beveled ends.
2. Connection method: Butt-welding requires beveled ends; threaded fittings need threaded ends; socket welds use plain ends.
3. Pressure rating: High-pressure systems almost always use beveled ends for full-penetration welds.

Special End Types

Beyond the three main types, some projects require special end finishes:

• Grooved end: For mechanical couplings (Victaulic-style), common in fire protection systems.
• Upset end: Thickened ends for drill pipe connections in oil & gas.
• Capped end: Plastic or steel caps welded to protect threads during shipping.

Conclusion

Understanding steel pipe end types ensures you specify the right connection method for your project. Whether you need plain, beveled, or threaded ends, CoreMetal Steel supplies all end types across our full range of carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloy pipes. Contact us with your specifications for competitive pricing.