Pipe End Types: Plain, Bevelled, Threaded and Grooved
Steel pipe end finishes explained: plain end (PE), bevelled end (BE), threaded and coupled (T&C), grooved ends, bevel angles and which joining method each suits.
Saudi Steel Work Editorial Team · · 3 min read
Short answer: Pipe ends are supplied plain (PE) for socket welding or mechanical couplings, bevelled (BE), typically 30° plus or minus 5° for butt welding, threaded and coupled (T&C) for screwed connections, or grooved for mechanical grooved couplings. The end finish must match the joining method in the piping specification.
Ordering the right pipe end saves cutting, rework and delays at site. The end finish depends on how the pipe will be joined.
Plain end (PE)
Square-cut ends. Used for:
- Socket-weld fittings (small bores)
- Mechanical couplings
- Structural uses such as piling, columns and handrails
Bevelled end (BE)
Ends machined at an angle with a small root face for butt welding.
- ASME B16.25 weld end preparation commonly uses 37.5° ± 2.5° with a 1.6 mm ± 0.8 mm root face
- API 5L line pipe commonly uses 30° (+5°/−0°) with a 1.6 mm ± 0.8 mm root face
Bevels speed welding and improve weld quality. See welding processes compared.
Threaded and coupled (T&C)
Threaded ends with a coupling on one end. Threads usually follow ASME B1.20.1 (NPT) or ISO 7/BS EN 10226 (BSP). Used for small-bore water, gas, air and fire lines, typically with SCH 40 or heavier walls.
Grooved ends
Roll-grooved or cut-grooved ends for mechanical grooved couplings, popular in fire protection and HVAC for fast installation and flexibility.
Quick guide
| Joining method | End finish |
|---|---|
| Butt welding | BE |
| Socket welding | PE |
| Threaded fittings | T&C or threaded |
| Grooved couplings | Grooved |
| Flanged (slip-on) | PE |
| Flanged (weld-neck) | BE |
Protecting ends
Request plastic or steel end caps for bevelled and threaded ends to prevent damage and contamination in transport and storage.
See fire fighting pipes, pipe schedules and steel pipes.