Stainless steel endless tube vs exhaust pipe

[dizmouk2009]

I apologise if this question isn't in the correct topic but I honestly can't think of what to list it under so here goes...

Does anyone know the difference between grade 304 stainless steel tube and 304 stainless exhaust tube?

Exhaust pipe is nearly 3 times cheaper than 304 stainless steel endless tubing yet I am mythed as to why. Afterall, exhaust pipe is the same grade and same finish as polished 304 endless stainless tubing.

So here lies the question, why is it so much cheaper? is it different and if so, what is different about it?

Thanks in advance,
Dizmo :)

[wildwood]

It has been a while for me but isn't 304(H) a seamless higher grade of pipe designed to withstand excessive temperatures?

I guess the cheaper stuff (L) goes yellow when used as an exhaust pipe.

[beso]

Exhaust tube has a relatively weak butt welded welded seam. The high grade stuff is designed for pressure and drawn into a tube.

[dizmouk2009]

Thanks all, you wouldn't believe how much I appreciate your responses.

The stainless is only going to be used for sculptures so I don't need anything that is going to be submitted to high temperatures (except for tig welding but even the best graded stuff gets discolour during tigging).

Thanks again,
P.S I'm sorry that I haven't been on this site for a while, I miss chatting to all the familiar faces! Happy New Year!! :)

[jomifl]

you can polish out the yellow oxide layer, it isn't very thick.