A513 Cold Roll Carbon Steel Round Tubing 1-3/4 in OD - Durable Tube

Our review of the A513 cold roll carbon steel round tubing finds it best suited for fabricators and DIY mechanics who need a strong, straight section of mild steel for shafts, pins, or structural repairs. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of rigidity and dimensional stability from the drawn-over-mandrel process, which yields a smooth, consistent wall and outside diameter that simplifies machining and fit-up. For projects where tensile strength and a precise outside measurement matter more than easy welding or extreme machinability, this tube delivers dependable performance.

Key Features

• Material and grade: A513/1018 carbon steel provides high strength and rigidity, which makes the tube suitable for load-bearing parts and rotating shafts.
• Drawn over mandrel: The DOM manufacturing yields a smooth outside surface and consistent OD that reduces finishing work and improves fit with bearings or sleeves.
• Precise outside diameter: The 1-3/4 in OD gives a predictable mating dimension for housings, collars, and fixtures.
• Wall and ID consistency: The 0.12 in wall and 1.51 in ID make the tubing sturdy while leaving room for internal machining or press-fit components.
• Standard compliance: Meets ASTM-A513, offering assurance of accepted mechanical and manufacturing standards for industrial use.
• Length: The 48 in length is long enough for multiple parts or longer shafts, reducing the need for splices.

Who It's For

The tubing is aimed at machine shops, metal fabricators, restoration shops, and serious DIYers needing material for pins, rods, spindles, or sprockets. Its strength and straightness are particularly useful when building drive components or structural supports where an accurate outside diameter is critical.

Those who need exceptional weldability or the easiest possible machining should look elsewhere, since 1018 A513 is noted for slightly reduced weldability and machinability compared with some free-machining or low-carbon steels. If the absolute inner diameter tolerance is critical for an interference fit, verify the ID before committing, as some users have noted slight variation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High strength and rigidity suitable for shafts and load-bearing parts.
• Drawn over mandrel process yields a smooth OD and consistent outside dimension for better fitment.
• Meets ASTM-A513 for reliable industrial performance and predictable material properties.
• Good value for the quality and length provided.

Cons

• Lower weldability and slightly reduced machinability compared with some other steel grades.
• Some customers report the inner diameter can be marginally smaller than expected, which may require reaming for tight fits.

Specifications

Standard	ASTM A513
Material	1018 cold roll carbon steel
Outside diameter	1-3/4 in
Inside diameter	1.51 in
Wall thickness	0.12 in
Length	48 in

Our Verdict

The A513 DOM 1018 round tubing is a sensible, cost-effective choice for builders and shops that need a strong, straight section with reliable outside dimensions. Buy it if you prioritize rigidity and OD accuracy for shafts, pins, or structural components; reaming or pre-checking the ID is recommended when a precise internal fit is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tubing welded or seamless?
The product is cold roll, drawn over mandrel tubing manufactured to A513, which is a welded DOM process that produces a smooth OD and tight tolerances.

Can it be welded easily for fabrication?
Welding is possible but the 1018 A513 grade has slightly lower weldability than lower carbon steels, so proper preheat and technique are advised.

Will the ID fit bearings or shafts without modification?
The 1.51 in ID is generally accurate, but some users report the inner diameter can be slightly smaller, so plan to ream or bore for precise interference or slip fits.