How to Measure Plumbing Pipe Size

You might be wondering how to measure plumbing pipe size. Using a string or a ruler, you can find out the Outside Diameter of a pipe. Then, divide the measurement by pi to find the Nominal Size. For example, if a pipe is 12 inches long, then the outside diameter would be 3.819″. Once you’ve determined the outside diameter, you can calculate the threads per inch and determine the size of your pipe. In the United States, we refer to pipe sizes by the number of inches or fractions of an inch on the outer surface. This number is also the nominal size of the pipe. Nominal sizes are more commonly used in North America, but there are differences between pipe sizes of the same type. For example, a 1-1/2-inch pipe actually has an outer diameter of 1.9 inches. However, you should never confuse the two. The inside diameter of a pipe refers to the hollow part. The outside diameter, or OD, refers to the outer part. If you’re using a male-to-female threaded pipe, you can refer to a chart that shows the threads per inch on female pipes. If you’re working with female-to-male piping, you’ll want to look for a pipe with a nominal diameter. Another useful tip for determining the size of a pipe is to take its inner diameter into account. Half-inch pipes used to have thick walls and an inner diameter of 1/2 inch. Fortunately, technology has improved and thinner-walled pipe has similar capabilities. The problem with this system, however, is that a pipe with an ID that is smaller than its nominal diameter won’t fit in a female fitting. This can lead to a plumbing nightmare. Regardless of the size of your pipe, making sure you get the correct size is an important part of any plumbing project. It’s easy to measure the size of a copper tube or a threaded pipe, and there are different methods to determine their length. Using a simple tool, like a caliper, will help you get the size you need. Once you’ve done this, you’ll be ready for the next step. Another easy way to determine the size of a pipe is by using a string. You can then overlap the string end with the pipe, and lay it flat to get the length. Some pipe applications require you to measure both the OD and ID. For example, a larger OD means a stronger PVC pipe. The ID is a basic measurement, but the OD will vary for different applications. It’s important to understand the OD so you don’t get stuck purchasing the wrong size. Another important tip to remember when measuring PVC pipe is to measure its depth. This is necessary when piping specific lengths of plumbing. If you need to install a PVC pipe that has a 30-inch nominal diameter, you’ll need to cut it at 34 inches. You’ll need to cut the pipe at that point if you need it to fit the socket. If you want to use a PVC pipe that is two inches wider than the pipe you’re measuring, you’ll need to cut it at that point to allow for this extra two-inch travel. Click here to learn more about vaillant boiler installers in derby.