What is the API Standard and What Are Its Benefits?
The API standard is a comprehensive set of technical and industrial guidelines developed by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
Recognized as one of the most authoritative technical references worldwide, these standards encompass over 700 documents covering a wide range of topics such as safety, design, quality control, environmental protection, and resource management.
The API was established in the United States in 1919, and by 1924, it had become a globally recognized authority in developing international standards for the oil and gas industry. Today, more than 650 major international companies across the supply chain—including production, refining, and transportation—actively collaborate with this institute.
Benefits of Using API Standards:
• Enhancing workplace safety through strict compliance with precise and rigorous requirements
• Facilitating collaboration with international companies in the oil and gas industry
• Supporting environmental protection in line with sustainable development goals
• Ensuring raw material conformity with global standards and minimizing production waste
• Creating a competitive environment and enabling active presence in global markets
At Lotos Forming, all stages of design, manufacturing, and delivery of industrial equipment are carried out in accordance with these internationally recognized standards—ensuring the highest levels of quality, safety, and compliance with the needs of both domestic and international clients.
Types of API Pipes
API pipes are generally categorized into two main types based on their manufacturing process:
- Welded Pipes:
• ERW (Electric Resistance Welded):
These pipes are made from rolled steel sheets, with the edges welded together using electric resistance. They are typically produced up to 24 inches in diameter and are suitable for medium-pressure transmission lines.
- LSAW (Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welded):
In this method, steel plates are welded longitudinally. These pipes are ideal for large diameters and are used in high-pressure transmission applications.
- SSAW (Spiral Submerged Arc Welded):
Steel plates are spirally formed and welded in this process. SSAW pipes are generally produced in large diameters and are used for special applications in transmission lines.
- Seamless Pipes (Mannesmann):
These pipes are manufactured from solid steel billets without any welding seams. Thanks to their uniform structure, they are highly suitable for high-pressure and high-temperature environments.
Types of API Standards Related to Seamless Pipes:
• API 5L – For oil and gas transmission pipelines
• API 5CT – For casing and tubing in oil and gas wells
• API 5DP – For drill pipes
