A513 Cold Roll Carbon Steel Round Tubing 2in OD - Strong, Drawn Tube

In this review the A513 Cold Roll Carbon Steel Round Tubing is evaluated for workshop and light industrial use; the bottom line is that this is a straightforward, sturdy length of drawn-over-mandrel tube best suited to shafts, pins, and structural supports where strength and dimensional consistency matter. The reviewer found it particularly useful when rigidity and steel quality are priorities, and notes that its compliance with ASTM A513 makes it a reliable choice for fabricators who need an off-the-shelf, machine-ready tube rather than a highly weldable or easily machined alloy.

Key Features

• Material strength: The A513 grade and 1018 carbon composition deliver notable rigidity and tensile strength for load-bearing applications.
• Drawn over mandrel finish: The D.O.M. process provides a smoother, more uniform wall and diameter, improving fit for bearings and press-fit components.
• Clear dimensions: The 2in outside diameter and 0.12in wall provide predictable clearance for assemblies and consistent structural section properties.
• Usable length: The 24in cut length is convenient for fabricators and hobbyists who need a ready-to-use piece without additional joining.
• Industry standard: Meeting ASTM-A513 gives confidence when integrating the tube into engineered builds or replacement parts.

Who It's For

This tube is aimed at machinists, welders, and small fabricators who need sturdy carbon steel tubing for mechanical parts such as pins, rods, shafts, spindles, and sprockets. Its drawn-over-mandrel finish and consistent OD make it a good pick for rebuilding or fabricating components where a tight external diameter is required.

It is less well suited to projects that demand easy welding or extensive machining where a lower-carbon, higher-weldability alloy would be preferable. Buyers who require unusually precise internal bores or special surface treatments should consider additional finishing or a different grade.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High rigidity and strength appropriate for load-bearing mechanical parts.
• Drawn-over-mandrel finish gives consistent OD and smoother surface for fittings.
• Meets ASTM-A513, which helps with specification-driven projects.
• Good value for common fabrication uses according to customer feedback.

Cons

• Lower machinability and weldability compared with lower-carbon steels, which can make some operations slower or require preheating.
• Some users report the inner diameter can be slightly smaller than expected, so tight internal fits may need verification.

Specifications

Material	A513 / 1018 carbon steel
Outer diameter	2in
Inner diameter	1.76in
Wall thickness	0.12in
Length	24in
Manufacture	Drawn over mandrel (D.O.M.)

Our Verdict

The A513 Cold Roll Carbon Steel Round Tubing is a practical, cost-effective option for anyone needing strong, consistent tubing for shafts, pins, or structural builds; it delivers good material quality and a usable D.O.M. finish that reduces prep work. Buyers who need excellent weldability or precise internal bore tolerances should verify fit or consider another alloy, but for general mechanical use this tube represents solid value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tube welded or seamless?
The product is D.O.M. drawn tubing that meets ASTM-A513; it is manufactured to provide a smooth, uniform wall and diameter suitable for mechanical use.

Will it be easy to weld?
Welding is possible but 1018 carbon steel has slightly lower weldability than low-carbon steels, so standard precautions and preheat may be advisable for thicker welds.

Are the dimensions accurate for bearing fits?
The drawn finish gives consistent OD, but some customers reported a slightly smaller inner diameter than expected, so measure before final assembly for tight internal fits.