A513 Cold Roll Carbon Steel Round Tubing 3in OD 0.50in Wall

In this review the A513 cold roll carbon steel round tubing is evaluated for workshop and fabrication use; it stands out for strength and rigidity, making it a practical choice for heavy-duty shafts, pins and structural components. The bottom line: anyone who needs a robust, ASTM-A513 compliant tube with a thick 0.50in wall and a long 72in length will appreciate this piece for its material integrity and fit for mechanical parts. The review focuses on real-world fit, steel quality, and typical limitations in machinability and inner diameter tolerance.

Key Features

• Material: A513 cold roll carbon steel provides high strength and rigidity useful for structural and mechanical applications where stiffness is required.
• Dimensions: 3in outside diameter and 2in inside diameter with a 0.50in wall offers substantial cross-section for heavy loads and torque transfer.
• Length: The 72in length is long enough for full-length shafts, rails, or to cut multiple shorter pieces from a single tube.
• Standard: Meets ASTM-A513, which gives confidence in consistent manufacturing and suitability for common industrial uses.
• Typical uses: 1018 carbon steel composition is suited for pins, rods, shafts, spindles and sprockets where strength and wear resistance matter.

Who It's For

This tubing is aimed at fabricators, machine shops, restoration specialists and hobbyists who need a strong, long, round tube for load-bearing or rotating components. It is particularly useful when a full-length piece is required to machine multiple parts or to create long shafts without welds.

Those who should look elsewhere include projects requiring high weldability or very tight inner diameter tolerances; customers expecting easy machining comparable to low-carbon steels should be aware that A513 has slightly lower machinability and may need different tooling and feeds.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High structural strength and rigidity make it dependable for pins, shafts and heavy fittings.
• Meets ASTM-A513 so it aligns with common industry expectations for tubing quality.
• Long 72in length and substantial 0.50in wall let you cut multiple components from one piece, saving time on sourcing.

Cons

• Machinability and weldability are slightly lower than softer steels, so cutting and joining may require more care.
• Some users note the inner diameter can be slightly under nominal, which may need reboring for tight-fit applications.

Specifications

Standard	ASTM-A513
Material	A513 cold roll carbon steel (1018).
Outside Diameter	3in
Inside Diameter	2in
Wall Thickness	0.50in
Length	72in

Our Verdict

The A513 cold roll carbon steel round tubing is a solid, value-oriented choice for users who need a stiff, long tube for mechanical parts and structural roles; its ASTM-A513 compliance and 0.50in wall make it particularly good for shafts and heavy fittings. Buyers who can accommodate slightly tougher machining and check inner diameter before final assembly will find it a dependable, cost-effective material.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tubing weldable?
Yes, but A513 is a higher carbon alloy with slightly lower weldability than mild steel, so proper preheat and welding procedures are recommended.

Will the inner diameter be accurate for a press fit?
Most customers find the dimensions accurate, but some report the inner diameter can be a little smaller than nominal, so measure and bore if a precise press fit is required.

Can I machine this material easily?
The tubing machines well for shafts and spindles but has slightly lower machinability than very low-carbon steels, so use appropriate tooling and feeds.