When sourcing 1-inch stainless steel tubing for industrial, construction, or DIY projects, understanding pricing factors is key to staying within budget without compromising performance. Prices vary based on material grade, wall thickness, and certifications—but premium brands often inflate costs unnecessarily. In this guide, we’ll break down the drivers of stainless steel tubing prices, explain how to select the right product, and showcase why Eagle’s stainless steel tubing offers unmatched value for durability, precision, and affordability.
What Affects 1-Inch Stainless Steel Tubing Prices?
Material Grade:
304 Stainless: Budget-friendly for general use (e.g., handrails, furniture).
316 Stainless: Higher corrosion resistance for marine, chemical, or coastal environments.
Duplex Steel: Extreme strength for oil/gas pipelines.
Wall Thickness:
Schedule 5S (Thin-Wall): Lightweight for low-pressure systems.
Schedule 40/80 (Thick-Wall): High-pressure resistance for industrial use.
Certifications:
ASTM A269 (sanitary), ASTM A312 (general use), or ASME B36.19 (dimensions).
Surface Finish:
Mill Finish: Economical for structural projects.
Polished/Electropolished: Required for food, pharma, or aesthetic applications.
Average Price Ranges for 1-Inch Stainless Steel Tubing
| Grade | Price per Foot (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 304 (Schedule 40) | $8–$15 | HVAC, handrails, frames |
| 316 (Schedule 10) | $12–$25 | Marine equipment, chemical plants |
| Duplex (Schedule 80) | $25–$50+ | Offshore rigs, high-stress pipelines |
Note: Prices fluctuate with raw material costs and order volume.
Why Choose Eagle’s Stainless Steel Tubing?
Eagle combines precision engineering with cost-effective pricing to deliver tubing trusted by industries worldwide:
1. Competitive Pricing
Direct-from-Mill Savings: Eagle’s 304 and 316 tubing costs 20–30% less than major brands like Ryerson or Atlas Steel.
Bulk Discounts: Save up to 15% on orders over 500 feet.
2. Industrial-Grade Durability
Corrosion Resistance: 316L tubing withstands saltwater, acids, and chlorides.
High-Temperature Performance: Rated for -50°F to 1,000°F (-45°C to 540°C).
Certified Quality: ASTM/ASME-compliant with mill test reports (MTRs).
3. Customization Options
Cut-to-Length: Precision laser cutting for exact project needs.
Special Finishes: Electropolished (Ra ≤0.4 μm) for sanitary applications.
Bending/Welding: Custom elbows, flanges, and orbital welds.
Case Study: Eagle’s 316 Tubing Saves $12k in Wastewater Plant Upgrade
A municipal plant replaced corroded carbon steel pipes with Eagle’s 1-inch 316L tubing for a chemical dosing system:
- Result: Zero leaks or corrosion in 3 years.
- Savings: Avoided $12k in annual maintenance costs.
How to Reduce Costs Without Sacrificing Quality
1.Optimize Wall Thickness: Thin-wall tubing cuts material costs if pressure allows.
2.Buy in Bulk: Eagle offers volume discounts for large orders.
3.Standardize Grades: Use 304 for non-corrosive environments instead of pricier 316.
FAQ: 1-Inch Stainless Steel Tubing
Q: Can I use 304 tubing outdoors?
A: Yes, but avoid coastal or de-icing salt areas—opt for 316 or Eagle’s coated 304.
Q: What’s the lead time for custom orders?
A: Eagle ships 80% of orders within 72 hours.
Q: Does Eagle provide food-grade tubing?
A: Yes! Electropolished 316L tubing meets FDA and 3-A sanitary standards.
While 1-inch stainless steel tubing prices depend on grade and specifications, Eagle ensures affordability without cutting corners. Their certified tubing solutions are proven in chemical plants, marine systems, and food processing facilities—delivering decades of reliable service at competitive rates.
Need a Quote or Expert Advice?
Explore Eagle’s stainless steel tubing catalog or contact their engineers for a free project consultation.