DOM (Drawn Over Mandrel) tubing is highly versatile, both in terms of the grade of steel used and the sizes available. Let’s break it down in terms of what you need to know about the materials, grades, and sizes for your specific project needs.
What is DOM Tubing?
Before diving into the specific grades and sizes, it’s essential to understand what DOM tubing is and how it’s made.
Understanding the Manufacturing Process
DOM tubing starts as Electric Resistance Welded (ERW) tubing and undergoes a cold-drawing process over a mandrel, which enhances the tubing’s precision, strength, and seamless appearance. This process makes DOM tubing more uniform and capable of handling high-stress environments.
What Grade is DOM Tubing?
1020 Grade DOM Tubing
1020 DOM tubing contains approximately 0.20% carbon, making it easier to machine and weld. It is perfect for light-duty applications where flexibility and machinability are required. I often use this grade in automotive components and custom fabrication.
1026 Grade DOM Tubing
With a slightly higher carbon content (about 0.26%), 1026 DOM tubing provides higher tensile strength, making it suitable for high-pressure and high-stress applications. For projects like hydraulic cylinders and mechanical systems, I always opt for 1026 due to its enhanced durability and load-bearing capability.
What Sizes Does DOM Tubing Come In?
DOM tubing comes in a wide range of sizes to fit the requirements of various applications. Whether you’re working on a lightweight custom project or something that needs to endure high-pressure, DOM tubing has the size flexibility to meet your demands.
Here’s a quick look at the standard size range:
| Dimension | Range | Description |
| Outside Diameter (OD) | 1/4 inch to over 10 inches | DOM tubing is available in a wide range of outside diameters. Smaller diameters (1/4 to 2 inches) are often used in lightweight applications, while larger diameters (2 to 10+ inches) are used in heavy-duty projects. |
| Wall Thickness | 0.028 inches to 0.500+ inches | Wall thickness varies depending on the project’s needs. Thinner walls are used where weight savings are important, while thicker walls offer more strength and durability for high-pressure applications. |
| Length | Customizable (standard 12-24 feet) | DOM tubing typically comes in standard lengths, but can be cut or customized to meet specific project requirements. |
Choosing the Right Grade and Size for Your Project
Here are some factors I consider when selecting the right grade and size for DOM tubing:
For Light-Duty Applications
I go for 1020 grade DOM tubing with smaller diameters and thinner walls. It’s perfect for automotive applications where flexibility is essential, or for custom fabrication projects where precision and ease of welding are important.
For Heavy-Duty or High-Pressure Applications
In high-stress environments like hydraulic systems, I select 1026 grade DOM tubing with thicker walls. Its strength and durability make it suitable for systems that need to endure extreme conditions.
Industries That Use DOM Tubing in Various Sizes
The adaptability of DOM tubing sizes makes it useful across many industries:
Automotive Industry
Smaller diameters (typically 1 to 2 inches OD) are commonly used for driveshafts, suspension systems, and axles.
Aerospace Industry
In aerospace, medium to large diameter DOM tubing is favored for hydraulic lines and structural components, thanks to its strength-to-weight ratio and precision.
Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems
Medium diameter DOM tubing with thicker walls is perfect for hydraulic cylinders and pneumatic systems, where it needs to withstand constant pressure.
Construction
Larger-diameter DOM tubing is used in frameworks and load-bearing structures, providing durability and long-term stability in construction projects.
Customization Options
If you’re like me and need custom sizes, DOM tubing is flexible enough to meet those requirements. I’ve frequently worked with suppliers to produce tubing in custom diameters and wall thicknesses, especially for high-precision projects in industries like automotive and aerospace.
DOM tubing comes in a variety of grades and sizes, offering the flexibility needed for projects across a wide range of industries. Whether you require light-duty or heavy-duty tubing, DOM provides an ideal balance of strength, precision, and durability. Make sure to consider your project’s strength, pressure, and precision needs when choosing the right DOM tubing grade and size.
