Chloe Zhang
Measuring plastic waste pipes can be confusing, especially since the UK uses both the imperial and metric systems. Pipes are measured by their nominal bore (NB) or inside diameter (ID) in inches under the imperial system, while the metric system uses millimetres to measure the outside diameter (OD). To measure the outside diameter, use a flexible measuring tape to measure the circumference of the pipe and divide that number by pi. The inside diameter is measured at the cross-section of the pipe's end, not including the thickness of the pipe walls. It's important to measure the right diameter, as the pipe size bears no resemblance to its description, and mixing pipe sizes from different groups is not possible.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Measurement | Pipes are measured in inches or millimetres. |
| Metric vs. Imperial | Metric pipes are sized in millimetres and relate to the outside diameter (OD) of the pipe. Imperial pipes are sized in inches and relate to the nominal bore (NB) or inside diameter (ID). |
| Male vs. Female Threads | Male threads are on the outside of the pipe, while female threads are on the inside. |
| Nominal Pipe Size | The nominal pipe size is the name of the pipe size, which may not reflect the actual diameter of the pipe. |
| Copper Tube Sizing (CTS) | Some pipes, such as cream-coloured CPVC pipes, use Copper Tube Sizing (CTS), which is different from PVC pipe sizing. |
| Conversion Fittings | When using both metric and imperial pipes in the same system, a special conversion fitting is required to accommodate the difference in sizes. |
| Outside Diameter (OD) | The outside diameter is measured from edge to edge across the pipe. |
| Inside Diameter (ID) | The inside diameter is measured across the middle of the pipe, excluding the thickness of the pipe walls. |
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What You'll Learn
Measuring the outside diameter
If you don't have a flexible measuring tape, you can use a piece of string instead. Wrap the string around the pipe's circumference and mark the point where it completes a full circle. Then, remove the string and measure the length of the marked section with a ruler. Finally, divide that length by pi to obtain the outside diameter.
It's important to note that the outside diameter is measured from one outside edge of the pipe to the opposite outside edge. This measurement is often referred to as the "outer diameter" or "OD".
Additionally, keep in mind that pipe sizing can be confusing. Pipes are typically labelled with a nominal size that does not always correspond to their actual dimensions. For example, a pipe labelled as a 2-inch size pipe may not have an exact 2-inch diameter. Therefore, it's essential to use a pipe size chart to match your measurements with the correct pipe size.
Furthermore, different types of pipes may have varying sizing systems. For instance, copper pipes use Copper Tube Sizing (CTS), while plastic pipes are typically sized in either imperial or metric measurements. Imperial sizes are designated by their nominal bore (NB) or inside diameter (ID), and metric sizes relate to the outside diameter (OD) in millimetres.
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Measuring the inside diameter
To measure the inside diameter of a plastic waste pipe, start by determining if the pipe has "male" or "female" threads. Male threads are on the outside of the pipe, while female threads are on the inside. If the pipe has female threads, you will need to measure the inside diameter.
There are a few different methods you can use to measure the inside diameter. One method is to use a tape measure or a ruler to measure across the width of the pipe. This will give you a quick and easy estimate of the pipe's size. However, it is important to note that this method may not be as accurate as using a flexible measuring tape or string.
Another method is to use a flexible measuring tape to measure the circumference of the pipe. To do this, wrap the measuring tape around the pipe at the centre, making sure to measure from inside edge to inside edge. Then, divide the circumference by pi (approximately 3.14159) to calculate the diameter. For example, if the circumference is 12.57 inches (319 mm), the diameter would be approximately 4 inches (100 mm).
Alternatively, if you do not have a flexible measuring tape, you can use a piece of string to measure the circumference. Mark the point on the string where it wraps around the pipe, then remove the string and measure it against a ruler. Finally, divide that length by pi to find the diameter.
It is important to remember that pipe sizes can be confusing, as the nominal pipe size may not always match the actual diameter of the pipe. Therefore, it is recommended to use a sizing chart to determine the correct pipe size for your project. These charts provide measurements for both the outer and inner diameters of pipes. By following these steps and using the appropriate tools, you can accurately measure the inside diameter of a plastic waste pipe.
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Converting to nominal pipe size
Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) is a North American set of standard sizes for pipes used for high or low pressures and temperatures. "Nominal" refers to pipe in non-specific terms and identifies the diameter of the hole with a non-dimensional number. The metric equivalent of NPS is DN or "diametre nominel". The European and international designation equivalent to NPS is DN (diamètre nominal/nominal diameter/Nennweite), in which sizes are measured in millimetres.
To convert to nominal pipe size, you must first determine whether you need to measure the outside or inside diameter of the pipe. If the pipe has male threads or no threads, you will need to find the outside diameter. This is the distance from outside edge to outside edge across the pipe. To find it, measure the circumference of the pipe with flexible measuring tape. Then, divide the circumference by pi (3.14159). For example, if the circumference is 12.57 inches (319 mm), you would divide by pi, and get an outside diameter of about 4 inches (100 mm).
If the pipe has female threads, you will need to measure the inside diameter. This is the distance across the middle of the pipe, not including the thickness of the pipe walls. Use a ruler or a caliper and measure at the end of the pipe, where there is a cross section.
If your pipe is smaller than 14 inches (360 mm), you will need to convert your diameter to nominal size. If it is 14 inches or more, you don’t need to convert it, because the diameter will equal the nominal diameter already.
It is important to note that pipe sizes can be confusing, as they are often given in inches as NPS or in metric units as DN. Additionally, the actual pipe size may bear no resemblance to its description. For example, a 1½" imperial pressure pipe, when measured on its outside diameter, is exactly 48.3mm or just under 2". Furthermore, the NPS and OD values are not always equal, which can create confusion. Therefore, it is important to refer to reference tables or conversion charts when converting to nominal pipe size.
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Identifying male and female threads
Measuring pipe size can be confusing, especially when it comes to differentiating between male and female threads. The following paragraphs will help you identify them.
Firstly, it's important to understand what threads are. Threads are the little grooves on the ends of some pipes that help them fit together. Now, to identify whether a pipe has male or female threads, examine the grooves. Male threads are on the outside of the pipe, whereas female threads are on the inside. Male threads are cut into the outside of the pipe and are measured by the outside diameter. Female threads, on the other hand, are cut into the inside of the pipe and are measured by the inside diameter.
To measure the outside diameter of a male thread, use a flexible measuring tape to measure the circumference of the pipe. Then, divide the circumference by pi (approximately 3.14159). For example, if the circumference is 12.57 inches (319 mm), dividing by pi gives you an outside diameter of about 4 inches (100 mm). Alternatively, you can use a string to measure the circumference if you don't have a measuring tape. Mark the point on the string, then measure the length against a ruler and divide by pi. You can also use a caliper to measure the outside diameter of a male thread, which will provide more accurate measurements.
For female threads, you'll need to measure the inside diameter, which is the distance across the middle of the pipe, excluding the pipe walls' thickness. Use a ruler or a caliper to measure at the end of the pipe where there is a cross-section. It's important to note that thread dimensions are considered nominal sizes and don't match standard units of measurement. Therefore, you'll need to convert the measurement to the nominal pipe size to find the correct pipe in the store.
Additionally, you can identify the thread type by its shape. Male threads resemble bolts, while female threads look like nuts. You can also determine whether the thread is tapered or parallel. Tapered threads become thinner towards the end, while parallel threads have the same diameter at the top and bottom. Using a pitch gauge or a caliper can help identify the distance between the threads (thread pitch) and ensure compatibility between fittings.
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Using a tape measure
Measuring plastic waste pipes is a simple process that can be done with a tape measure. This method is useful for replacements or repairs, and it works for both professionals and DIYers.
Firstly, determine if you need to measure the outside or inside diameter of the pipe. If your pipe has male threads or no threads, you will need to measure the outside diameter. This is the distance from one outside edge of the pipe to the other. If your pipe has female threads, you will need to measure the inside diameter, which does not include the thickness of the pipe walls.
Next, wrap a soft tape measure around the outside circumference of the pipe. If your pipe is still connected to the plumbing, you can also use a string to measure the circumference. Mark the point on the string where it wraps around the pipe, then measure the length of the string with a ruler.
Now, take the circumference measurement and divide it by pi (approximately 3.14159) to get the diameter. For example, if the circumference is 12.57 inches (319 mm), the diameter is approximately 4 inches (100 mm).
Finally, convert your diameter to the nominal pipe size. If your diameter is smaller than 14 inches (360 mm), you will need to convert it to the nominal size. The nominal size is the size that will be sold in hardware stores. You can use an online chart or a pipe sizing chart to find the nominal size that corresponds to your diameter.
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Frequently asked questions
Measure the circumference of the pipe with flexible measuring tape. Divide the circumference by pi, or 3.14159. This will give you the diameter.
The outer diameter is the distance from the outside edge of the pipe to the outside edge of the opposite side. The inner diameter is the distance across the middle of the pipe, excluding the thickness of the pipe walls.
The inner and outer diameters are important for determining the pipe's size and ensuring that it fits correctly.
Metric pipe sizes are measured in millimetres and refer to the outer diameter of the pipe. Imperial pipe sizes are measured in inches and refer to the nominal bore or inner diameter of the pipe.
