Alexei Volkov
Measuring the diameter of plastic tubing is a critical process that requires accuracy and precision. The internal diameter (ID) and outside diameter (OD) of plastic tubing play a significant role in ensuring the tube performs up to the intended standards and desired flow rate. Various methods and tools are available to measure the diameter of plastic tubing, including pin gauges, comparators, ultrasound/laser systems, and simple tools like rulers and tape measures. The choice of measurement technique depends on factors such as the flexibility and deformation of the tubing, the required accuracy, and the specific application of the tubing.
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What You'll Learn
Measuring inside and outside diameter
When measuring the inside and outside diameter of plastic tubing, it is essential to adhere to strict dimensional tolerance limits. Spatial measurements such as inside diameter (ID), outside diameter (OD), wall thickness, and overall length all play a role in ensuring the tubing meets the intended standards.
To measure the outside diameter of a PVC pipe, use a measuring tape to find the diameter at the centre of the pipe. Measure from one outer edge of the pipe to the other outer edge. This is the "outer diameter". Then, refer to a pipe size chart to determine the nominal pipe size. It is important to note that the nominal pipe size may not always match the measurement, so using a chart is crucial to avoid confusion.
For measuring the inside diameter, or ID, of plastic tubing, pin gauges can be used. These are metal pins of calibrated diameters. The pin with the lower limit diameter should fit through the inside of the tubing, while the upper limit pin should not. However, pin gauges are not ideal as the sole method of measurement as they cannot be used for continuous in-process control.
Comparators are another tool used to measure tubing dimensions. The tubing is placed in a fixed position in the comparator and illuminated with light. The image is then projected onto a display, and computer software converts the coordinates to measurements of the internal and external diameters. Lasers can also be used to measure tubing dimensions, providing continuous "real-time" measurement of the tubing as it is produced.
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Using pin gauges
Pin gauges are metal pins of a strictly calibrated diameter. They are used to test the size and geometry of holes and bored features. When used to measure the diameter of plastic tubing, the pin with the lower limit diameter should fit through the inside diameter of the tubing with ease, while the pin with the upper limit diameter should not.
Pin gauges are a valuable quality-control tool for carrying out a final check of the tubing dimensions. They are also used to analyse which materials have a tendency to expand or shrink over time. However, they are not suitable as the sole means of dimensional analysis as they cannot be used for continuous in-process control.
Pin gauges are particularly useful for gauging the straightness of relatively deep bores. They are also commonly used in combination to produce a "Go-No Go" gauge that quickly qualifies a bored hole.
While continuous laser measurement devices are superior to pin gauges as an in-process measurement device, a robust quality control system will utilise several methods to ensure tubing is manufactured consistently and within specification.
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Comparator measurements
To use a comparator, the tubing is placed in a fixed position in the comparator and illuminated with light sources. The image is then projected onto a display. Computer software is used to convert the coordinates of the tubing on the screen to measurements of the internal and external diameter.
While continuous laser measurement devices are superior to comparators as an in-process measurement device, comparators are valuable quality-control tools for carrying out a final check of the tubing dimensions. They can also be used to analyze which materials have a tendency to expand or shrink over time.
When measuring the ID (inside diameter) using a comparator, a series of pins with gradually increasing diameters are inserted into the gently rounded tubing to find the largest pin that fits without stretching the tubing. The OD (outside diameter) is then measured with this largest ID pin in place. The OD is defined as the average of the minimum and maximum values measured using this method.
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Ultrasound and laser systems
Ultrasound measurement involves the use of high-frequency sound waves, beyond the upper limit of human hearing, to evaluate the dimensions of plastic tubing. The ultrasound waves are reflected off the inner and outer surfaces of the tube, allowing for precise measurements of the tube's internal and external diameters, as well as its wall thickness and concentricity. Ultrasound technology, such as the LaserLinc UltraGauge+™ series, can measure wall thickness, layer thickness, and concentricity for various materials, including plastic.
Laser measurement systems, such as the "LaserSpeed" Detector, offer a non-contact method of measuring plastic tubing. This technology measures the speed of the extruded tubing using lasers, allowing for the calculation of the length produced. Laser systems provide continuous, real-time measurements of the tubing's internal diameter (ID), outside diameter (OD), wall thickness, and concentricity. This data is invaluable for quality control, ensuring that the tubing remains within specification during the manufacturing process.
The choice between ultrasound and laser systems depends on the specific application and requirements. Ultrasound technology is well-suited for measuring wall thickness and concentricity, while laser systems excel at providing continuous, real-time measurements of tubing dimensions during the production process.
By utilizing these advanced measurement techniques, manufacturers can achieve high accuracy and consistency in plastic tubing production, ensuring that the tubing meets the intended standards and performance requirements.
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Wall thickness
The wall thickness of plastic tubing is a critical measurement that ensures the tube performs up to the intended standards. If the wall is too thin, it may fail in use. If it is too thick, the manufacturer may waste money on excess resin.
Ultrasonic gauging is a quick, reliable, and nondestructive way to measure wall thickness. It does not require access to the inside diameter (ID) or for the pipe to be cut. The ultrasonic gauge measures the round-trip pulse transit time and uses that time measurement plus the speed of sound in the test material to calculate thickness. The minimum measurable wall thickness is typically 0.1 mm (0.004 in.) for diameters as small as 1.5 mm (0.060 in.).
The recommended instruments for measuring plastic tubing are ultrasonic thickness gauges such as the 45MG gauge with Single Element software and the 39DL PLUS™ gauge. The 39DL PLUS™ gauge is field-proven and reliable for virtually every ultrasonic thickness inspection. It works as a precision or corrosion thickness gauge to meet the challenges of demanding applications across industries, including manufacturing and energy production. With world-class ultrasonic capability, fast scanning speeds, and fully integrated wireless connectivity, this handheld gauge delivers results you can trust in a seamless workflow.
For very small-diameter tubing (less than approximately 0.125 in. or 3 mm diameter), the recommended gauge is the 72DL PLUS™ high-frequency thickness gauge. This advanced ultrasonic thickness gauge delivers precision thickness measurements at high speed in a portable, easy-to-use device. It is ideally suited to measure the thickness of ultra-thin materials, including multilayer paint, coatings, and plastic. It can simultaneously display the thickness of up to 6 layers.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several methods to measure the diameter of plastic tubing. You can use a simple tape measure across the pipe's width or a ruler. You can also use pin gauges, comparators, and ultrasound/laser systems.
Pin gauges are metal pins of a calibrated diameter. A series of pins with gradually increasing diameters are inserted into the tubing to find the largest pin that fits without stretching the tubing.
Comparators are used to examine samples in a QC laboratory. The tubing is placed in a fixed position, illuminated with light, and the image is projected onto a display. Computer software is then used to convert the coordinates of the tubing on the screen to measurements.
Continuous laser measurement devices are superior to pin gauges or comparators as they can be used as an in-process measurement device for maintaining tolerance limits in plastic tubing manufacturing. They can also measure the speed of the extruded tubing.
