MS Pipe Elbow – Complete Guide on Types, Applications, and Prices
When it comes to piping systems, MS Pipe Elbow is one of the most essential fittings used across industries. Whether it is water supply, oil & gas pipelines, construction, or industrial applications, pipe elbows play a critical role in ensuring smooth flow by changing the direction of fluid inside the pipe network. An MS (Mild Steel) Elbow is a type of fitting that allows the redirection of flow at different angles, usually 45°, 90°, or 180°.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the meaning of MS Pipe Elbow, its types, manufacturing process, applications, benefits, and price list so that buyers, engineers, and contractors can make informed decisions.
What is an MS Pipe Elbow?
An MS Pipe Elbow is a curved pipe fitting made from Mild Steel (low carbon steel) that is used to connect two pipes at an angle. The most common angles are 45° and 90°, but elbows can be manufactured at other angles depending on project requirements.
Mild Steel is preferred because it is:
Cost-effective compared to stainless steel or alloy steel.
Easy to weld and fabricate, making installation simple.
Strong and durable, ensuring long life in various applications.
Corrosion resistant when coated or galvanized.
MS elbows are available in seamless and welded forms, depending on the pressure and strength needed.
Types of MS Pipe Elbow
There are several types of MS elbows used in industries. Let’s understand them in detail:
1. 90° MS Elbow
The most widely used elbow, it changes the pipe direction by 90 degrees. Commonly used in plumbing, fire protection systems, and industrial pipelines.
2. 45° MS Elbow
Used when the pipeline needs to be bent at a 45° angle. It helps in smoother fluid transition compared to a 90° elbow.
3. 180° MS Elbow (Return Elbow)
This elbow allows a complete U-turn of fluid. It is commonly used in heating and cooling systems where water or gas needs to return.
4. Long Radius (LR) Elbow
Has a longer radius, which reduces friction and pressure drop. Suitable for applications requiring smooth flow.
5. Short Radius (SR) Elbow
Compact in design and used where space is limited.
6. Seamless MS Elbow
Made without any welding, offering higher strength and durability. Used in high-pressure applications.
7. Welded MS Elbow
Made by welding pieces of steel together. Cost-effective and used in low to medium pressure lines.
Manufacturing Process of MS Pipe Elbow
The production of MS Elbows involves different techniques depending on the required quality and pressure handling.
Hot Forming Method – Steel pipe is heated and pressed into the required elbow shape using dies.
Cold Forming Method – Pipe is bent at room temperature using machines, suitable for thin-wall pipes.
Mandrel Method – A mandrel is inserted inside the pipe to maintain internal diameter while bending.
Welding Method – Plates or pipe pieces are welded to create elbows for low-cost requirements.
Each process ensures the elbow maintains strength, accuracy, and durability.
Applications of MS Pipe Elbow
MS Pipe Elbows are used in almost every industry where fluids or gases need to be transported. Some major applications include:
Plumbing & Water Supply – To change water flow in residential, commercial, and municipal pipelines.
Oil & Gas Industry – For transporting crude oil, petroleum, and natural gas through pipelines.
Firefighting Systems – Essential in hydrant pipelines where flow direction needs to be managed.
HVAC & Cooling Systems – Used in heating and cooling water circulation.
Industrial Plants – For conveying chemicals, steam, and other fluids.
Agriculture & Irrigation – To create pipeline networks for farming and irrigation systems.
Advantages of Using MS Pipe Elbow
Cost-Effective: Cheaper than stainless steel or copper elbows.
Durable: Long-lasting with proper coating or galvanization.
Versatile: Available in multiple sizes, radii, and thicknesses.
Easy to Weld & Install: Can be joined with MS pipes easily.
Customizable: Manufactured in different shapes and dimensions as per project needs.
Sizes and Dimensions of MS Pipe Elbow
MS Pipe Elbows are manufactured in different sizes ranging from ½ inch to 48 inches (DN15 – DN1200). The thickness usually follows SCH 20, SCH 40, SCH 80, SCH 160, depending on pressure rating.
Standard dimensions are as per:
ANSI / ASME B16.9 (Factory-Made Wrought Steel Butt-welding Fittings)
IS 1239 & IS 3589 (Indian Standards for MS Pipes & Fittings)
MS Pipe Elbow Price in India
The price of an MS Elbow depends on:
Size (½ inch to 48 inches)
Type (Seamless / Welded / Socket Weld)
Angle (45°, 90°, 180°)
Thickness (Schedule 20 / 40 / 80 / 160)
Manufacturer and brand
Approximate Price Range (India, 2025):
½ inch to 2 inch MS Elbow – ₹15 to ₹100 per piece
3 inch to 6 inch MS Elbow – ₹120 to ₹450 per piece
8 inch to 12 inch MS Elbow – ₹600 to ₹1800 per piece
Large Size Industrial MS Elbows – ₹2000+ depending on size & pressure
(Bulk purchase from an MS fittings manufacturer can reduce cost significantly.)
Difference Between MS Pipe Elbow and Other Pipe Fittings
MS Elbow vs MS Bend – Elbow is a sharp directional change (usually 45° or 90°), while bend is a smooth curve.
MS Elbow vs Tee – Elbow changes direction, while Tee divides flow into branches.
MS Elbow vs Reducer – Elbow changes direction, while Reducer changes pipe size.
How to Select the Right MS Pipe Elbow?
When choosing an MS Elbow, consider:
Pipe Size & Thickness – Match the elbow with pipe dimensions.
Pressure Rating – For high-pressure pipelines, choose seamless elbows.
Angle Requirement – Select 45°, 90°, or 180° depending on pipeline design.
Material Quality – Ensure ISI-marked or standard certified products.
Manufacturer Reputation – Buy from trusted MS fittings manufacturers.
Leading MS Pipe Elbow Manufacturers in India
Some reputed MS Fittings Manufacturers in India include:
Jindal Steel & Power
Tata Steel
Surya Roshni Ltd
Local specialized manufacturers in Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai.
Conclusion
An MS Pipe Elbow is a vital fitting in any piping system, helping to change the direction of flow while maintaining strength and efficiency. With multiple types like 45°, 90°, 180°, long radius, and short radius elbows, they are widely used in plumbing, oil & gas, firefighting, HVAC, and industrial plants.
The price of MS Elbows in India depends on size, type, and brand but generally ranges from ₹15 to ₹2000+ per piece. Choosing a high-quality elbow from a reputed MS fitting manufacturer ensures safety, durability, and cost-effectiveness in projects.
If you are in search of durable, affordable, and high-performance pipe fittings, MS Pipe Elbows remain one of the best options in the market.