Maya Ellison
Measuring corrugated plastic pipe is a simple but important skill to have for plumbing and building projects. The first step is to determine whether you need to measure the outside or inside diameter of the pipe. For plastic pipes, the outside diameter is the relevant measurement, as the pipe needs to fit into a socket. The next step is to take the measurement, using a flexible tape measure or string, and then convert this to the nominal pipe size, which is the size that will be used in stores. This process differs slightly depending on whether you are using the metric system or the inch/imperial system. For metric, the outside diameter is the same as the name of the pipe, while for the inch/imperial system, the name of the pipe is an approximation of the bore of the inside of the pipe.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Measurement method | Use a tape measure, ruler, or flexible measuring tape across the pipe's width to determine the size. |
| Diameter type | Measure the outside diameter of the pipe, not the inside diameter. |
| Unit conversion | Convert the measurement to the "nominal" pipe size, which is what the pipe will be called in the store. |
| Nominal size calculation | Divide the circumference by pi (approximately 3.14159). |
| Nominal size threshold | Convert if the diameter is smaller than 14 inches (360 mm); no need to convert if it's 14 inches or more. |
| Unit system | Use inches (imperial) or millimetres (metric). |
| Metric system usage | Europe, UK, and other parts of the world. |
| Imperial system usage | North America, Asia, and UK. |
| Pipe length | Custom lengths are available. |
| Pipe thickness | Ranges from 18 gauge to 8 gauge. |
| Pipe diameter | Typically ranges from 12 inches to 144 inches, with variations depending on the specific type and application. |
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What You'll Learn
Measure the outside diameter
To measure the outside diameter of a corrugated plastic pipe, you can use a ruler, a soft tape measure, or a caliper. You can also use string if you don't have access to these tools.
First, measure the pipe's circumference by wrapping a soft tape measure around its outside. If you don't have a soft measuring tape, you can wrap a piece of string around the pipe, mark the end point, and then measure the length of the string with a ruler.
Next, divide the circumference by pi (approximately 3.14159) to get the outside diameter. 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).
It's important to note that the outside diameter of a pipe is different from its nominal size, which is the size sold in hardware stores. The nominal size of a pipe is based on its inner diameter, which may vary depending on the thickness of the pipe walls. However, the outside diameter always remains the same, even if the pipe wall changes.
Additionally, it's worth mentioning that there are two main systems for labelling pipe diameters: the metric system and the inch/imperial system. The metric system is used in Europe and many other parts of the world, and it labels pipe diameters in millimetres. On the other hand, the inch/imperial system is used in North America and Asia, and it labels pipe diameters in inches. Knowing the difference between these two systems is crucial, as they are not interchangeable.
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Measure the inside diameter
When measuring corrugated plastic pipe, it is important to first determine whether you need to measure the outside or inside diameter. Plastic pipes are typically measured from outside edge to outside edge, as the pipe needs to fit into the socket. However, if your pipe has "female threads", you will need to measure the inside diameter.
To measure the inside diameter, you will need to use a ruler or a caliper. Place the ruler or caliper at the end of the pipe, where there is a cross-section, and measure across the middle of the pipe, excluding the thickness of the pipe walls. This will give you the inside diameter measurement.
It is worth noting that the inside diameter of a pipe with female threads is typically smaller than the outside diameter, as the pipe wall thickness affects the inside diameter. Therefore, when measuring the inside diameter, it is important to ensure that your measurements are accurate to ensure the correct pipe size.
Additionally, after measuring the inside diameter, you may need to convert this measurement to the nominal pipe size, which is the size that the pipe will be referred to in stores. This conversion is especially important if your measurements are smaller than 14 inches (360 mm). You can use a pipe sizing chart to help you with this conversion.
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Convert to nominal size
To convert a pipe's diameter to its nominal size, you need to first measure the pipe's circumference with a flexible measuring tape. Then, divide the circumference by pi (approximately 3.14159). For example, if the circumference is 12.57 inches (319 mm), then dividing by pi yields an outside diameter of about 4 inches (100 mm).
If the pipe has male threads or no threads, you should measure the outside diameter, which is the distance from outside edge to outside edge across the pipe. If the pipe has female threads, measure the inside diameter, which is the distance across the middle of the pipe, excluding the pipe walls' thickness.
Once you have the diameter, you can convert it to the nominal size. Nominal size is what the pipe will be called in the store. If the diameter is smaller than 14 inches (360 mm), you need to convert it to the nominal size. However, if it is 14 inches or larger, the diameter already equals the nominal diameter, and no conversion is needed.
The specific conversion will depend on whether you need to use the Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) system or the Diameter Nominal (DN) system. NPS is used in North America, while DN is used with the metric system. NPS values are typically expressed as fractions or decimals (e.g., 1/2", 2.5"), while DN values are usually whole numbers (e.g., DN 50). You can use conversion tables to help with this step, as the relationship between diameter and nominal size is not always straightforward.
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Understand metric and imperial systems
Measuring corrugated plastic pipe involves determining the pipe's diameter and converting that measurement to the nominal pipe size, or NPS, which is the size used in stores. The process requires measuring the pipe's circumference and then dividing that number by pi to obtain the diameter. This measurement can then be converted to the nominal size using conversion tables.
Understanding the metric and imperial systems is essential when measuring pipes or dealing with any units of measurement. The metric system, also known as the International System of Units (SI), is a decimal-based system that uses the metre as its fundamental unit of length and the kilogram as its fundamental unit of mass. It was first adopted in France in 1795 and is now used as the official system of measurement in almost all countries. The metric system's use of powers of ten as the denomination makes it relatively easy to understand and convert between units.
On the other hand, the imperial system, also known as the British Imperial System or the United States Customary System (USCS), uses units such as inches, feet, pounds, gallons, and tons. This system originated in Britain and was formalised with the Weights and Measures Act of 1824, becoming the official system in the United Kingdom until they adopted the metric system in 1965. The USCS is based on the British Imperial System, and while the United States has not officially adopted the metric system, both systems are taught in schools.
The choice between using the metric and imperial systems often depends on the context and the user's comfort level. While the metric system is more widely used internationally, the imperial system is more associated with daily life in some countries, especially in the United States and Commonwealth nations. Conversion charts are useful when converting between the two systems, and they provide formulas and equivalent values for various units of measurement.
In the context of pipe measurement, the choice between metric and imperial systems may depend on the country and industry standards. For example, in North America, pipe sizes are typically given in Nominal Pipe Size (NPS), while the metric system uses Diameter Nominal (DN). Understanding these differences is crucial for ensuring accurate measurements and compatibility in plumbing and building projects.
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Identify pipe threads
When identifying pipe threads, it is important to note that there are several types of threads and they are not interchangeable. The most common types of threads are NPT or NPS (national pipe tapered or straight), MIP or FIP (male or female iron pipe), BSP(T) or BSP(S) (British standard pipe tapered or straight), and UN/UNF (Unified threads). NPT threads are the most common in North America, while BSP threads are the most common in Europe. Metric threads are also commonly used and are measured in millimetres.
To identify the thread type of a pipe, you can start by looking for any inscriptions or stamps on the fitting, which may indicate the thread type. You can also use a pitch gauge to measure the distance between the crests of the threads or count the number of threads per inch. Additionally, you can use a caliper to measure the diameter of the thread. For male threads, measure the outside diameter, and for female threads, measure the inside diameter. If the thread diameter gets thinner towards the end, it is a tapered thread; if it is the same at the top and bottom, it is a parallel thread.
It is crucial to use the proper pipe thread type when installing equipment to avoid leaks and ensure compatibility. The reliability of the fitting connection depends on selecting the optimal thread type for the application. Using thread seal tape can also help create a leak-free seal, but it is important to use the correct type of tape for the specific thread. For example, NPT threads should be lubricated with paste or tape to limit corrosion.
Consulting a thread identification guide or a specialist in fluid connections can also help identify the correct thread type and ensure proper installation. These guides provide detailed information on various thread types, including port threads such as NPT, PT, and G, as well as BSPP (parallel or straight threads) and BSPT (tapered threads). By following these steps and using the appropriate tools, you can accurately identify pipe threads and ensure the proper functioning of your equipment.
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Frequently asked questions
Measure the outside diameter of the pipe, from outside edge to outside edge. Use a flexible measuring tape, or string if you don't have one, to measure the circumference of the pipe. Then, divide the circumference by pi (approximately 3.14159).
No, the inside diameter is not relevant for corrugated plastic pipes. Only the outside diameter is needed for ordering fittings or more pipe.
If your pipe has "male" threads, measure the outside diameter. If it has "female" threads, measure the inside diameter.
Nominal pipe size is what the pipe will be called in the store. If your diameter measurement is smaller than 14 inches (360mm), you will need to convert it. Use a conversion table to find the nominal size.
The process is similar for corrugated metal pipes. Measure the circumference or diameter and then convert to the nominal size if necessary. Corrugated metal pipes typically range from 12" to 144" in diameter.
