You are currently viewing MS Pipes in Fire Fighting

MS Pipes in Fire Fighting

Infographic showing types of MS pipes (Seamless, ERW, Galvanized, Black) and coating methods (Bitumen, Coal Tar Enamel, Polyethylene Wrapping, Epoxy Coating).
Types of MS Pipes and Coating Methods – An informative guide by SSES Engineers for fire fighting and plumbing systems.

MS Pipes in Fire Fighting: Types, Coatings, Wrappings, and IS Standards

Mild Steel (MS) pipes are among the most widely used materials in fire fighting and plumbing systems. Known for their durability, strength, and cost-effectiveness, MS pipes play a critical role in ensuring safe and reliable water supply, whether it is for fire hydrant systems, sprinklers, or plumbing distribution lines.

In this blog, we’ll cover the types of MS pipes, their coatings and wrappings, and the Indian Standards (IS codes) that govern their use.

🔹 What are MS Pipes?

MS pipes are carbon steel pipes with a low amount of carbon (0.05% – 0.25%). They are easy to weld, shape, and fabricate, making them highly suitable for applications in fire fighting systems, plumbing, gas lines, structural works, and industrial projects.

🔹 Types of MS Pipes

MS pipes are available in different manufacturing types depending on the process and application.

1. Seamless MS Pipes

  • Made without joints or welds.

  • Manufactured by extruding solid steel billets.

  • Strong and reliable, suitable for high-pressure applications such as fire pumps and hydrant risers.

  • Common IS Standard: IS 1239 (Part 1) – 2004 for mild steel tubes.

2. ERW (Electric Resistance Welded) MS Pipes

  • Manufactured by cold forming steel strips and welding the seam using electric resistance.

  • Widely used in fire hydrant systems, sprinkler networks, and plumbing.

  • Available in light, medium, and heavy grades.

  • IS Standard: IS 1239 (Part 1) for water and gas pipes.

3. Galvanized MS Pipes (GI Pipes)

  • Coated with zinc to prevent corrosion.

  • Commonly used in plumbing, water distribution, and outdoor applications.

  • While popular in plumbing, fire fighting systems often use black MS pipes (un-galvanized) with external coatings.

4. MS Black Pipes

  • Uncoated, plain mild steel pipes.

  • Used in fire fighting systems with protective coatings/wrappings applied externally.

  • Cost-effective and easily weldable.

🔹 Coating and Wrapping of MS Pipes

Since MS pipes are prone to rust and corrosion, they require proper protective coatings and wrappings, especially when installed underground or exposed to weather.

1. Bitumen Coating

  • Traditional method of protecting MS pipes.

  • Pipes are cleaned, primed, and coated with hot bitumen.

  • Provides anti-corrosion protection in underground fire hydrant lines.

  • IS Reference: IS 10221 – 1982: Code of Practice for Coating and Wrapping of Underground MS Pipes.

2. Coal Tar Enamel Coating

  • A mixture of coal tar pitch, enamel, and fiberglass mat.

  • Used for heavy-duty underground protection.

  • Provides strong resistance against soil, chemicals, and moisture.

3. Polyethylene Wrapping (PE Wrapping)

  • Pipes are coated with a layer of extruded polyethylene tape.

  • Highly effective against corrosion.

  • Widely used in modern fire fighting underground mains.

  • IS Reference: IS 10221 specifies wrapping procedures.

4. Epoxy Coating

  • Applied internally and/or externally.

  • Improves hydraulic efficiency (smooth inner lining) and corrosion resistance.

  • Suitable for fire sprinkler pipes and industrial applications.

5. Cement Mortar Lining (CML)

  • Internal coating of cement mortar.

  • Prevents rust and scaling inside the pipe.

  • Commonly used in large-diameter fire water mains.

🔹 Wrapping for Underground MS Pipes

When MS pipes are installed below ground level, wrapping is essential:

  • 3-layer system: Primer + Bitumen/Coal Tar Enamel + Fiberglass cloth wrap.

  • Modern 5-layer system: Primer + Adhesive + Polyethylene tape (inner) + Polyethylene tape (outer) + Overwrap tape.

  • Wrapping ensures protection from soil moisture, corrosive chemicals, and stray currents.

👉 For underground fire hydrant mains, SSES Engineers uses polyethylene wrapping or coal tar enamel coating to ensure long-term reliability.

🔹 Common IS Standards for MS Pipes in Fire Fighting & Plumbing

  1. IS 1239 (Part 1): 2004 – Mild steel tubes, tubulars, and other wrought steel fittings (water, gas, and air).

  2. IS 3589: 2001 – Steel pipes for water and sewage (large diameter MS pipes).

  3. IS 4270: 2001 – Steel tubes for water wells.

  4. IS 1161: 2014 – Steel tubes for structural purposes.

  5. IS 10221: 1982 – Code of practice for coating and wrapping of underground MS pipes.

For global references, see American Water Works Association (AWWA) Standards and ASTM Steel Pipe Standards.

🔹 Applications of MS Pipes in Fire Fighting Systems

  • Hydrant Lines – Underground mains coated and wrapped for corrosion protection.

  • Risers – Seamless or ERW MS pipes for vertical distribution in high-rises.

  • Sprinkler Networks – Epoxy-coated MS pipes for reliable water flow.

  • Pump Suction & Delivery Lines – Heavy-duty seamless MS pipes for durability.

🌟 Why SSES Engineers is Your Trusted Partner

At SSES Engineers, we supply, install, and maintain MS pipes and fire fighting networks with:

  • ✔ Compliance with IS and NBC standards

  • ✔ Expertise in underground coating and wrapping

  • ✔ End-to-end service from design to commissioning

  • ✔ Reliable AMC for long-term performance

When it comes to fire safety, the choice of the right pipes and protection methods is critical—and SSES Engineers ensures nothing is left to chance.

📌 Final Thoughts

MS pipes are the backbone of fire fighting and plumbing systems, but their performance depends on correct selection, coating, and maintenance. With standards like IS 1239, IS 3589, and IS 10221, businesses can ensure compliance and durability.

If you’re looking for the most reliable MS pipe installation and fire fighting contractor, trust SSES Engineers—India’s No. 1 name in fire protection solutions.