Omar Khalid
Measuring a plastic drain valve can be a confusing process, but it is important to do so to ensure that any replacement parts fit properly. The first step is to remove the drain cover or grate and then measure the diameter at the top of the drain hole. This can be done with a measuring tape or a caliper. The next step is to compare the measurement to a pipe sizing chart. This is because pipe and tubing are measured differently. Pipes are measured by their outside diameter, while tubing is measured by its inside diameter.
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What You'll Learn
Measuring the outer diameter
Once you have your tools, follow these steps:
- Identify the widest point across the opening of the plastic drain valve.
- Place one end of your measuring tape or ruler at the outside edge of the valve.
- Stretch the measuring tape or ruler across to the opposite outside edge, ensuring it passes through the centre of the valve.
- Note the measurement at the centre, which represents the outer diameter.
It is important to note that the outer diameter of a pipe is not always the same as its nominal size. Nominal sizes are standardised measurements used to label pipes, and they may not always align exactly with the outer diameter. Therefore, it is recommended to refer to a pipe size chart or a conversion chart to determine the nominal size of the pipe based on the outer diameter measurement you obtained.
Additionally, keep in mind that pipe fittings are designed to fit over the outside of the pipe. So, when selecting fittings, ensure that their inside diameters are compatible with the outer diameter of your plastic drain valve.
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Using a caliper
A caliper is a handy tool for measuring the outer diameter of a plastic drain valve. It is a precise measuring instrument that can provide an accurate reading of the valve's size. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a caliper for this purpose:
Step 1: Choose the Right Caliper
Select a suitable caliper for the job. There are various types of calipers available, such as a slide caliper, digital caliper, or precision caliper with a dial gauge. A slide caliper is easy to use and precise, often costing less than $10. It provides an exact measurement, while the naked eye may be deceiving in certain circumstances. Digital calipers are also easy to operate and offer outstanding accuracy.
Step 2: Prepare the Caliper
If you are using a digital caliper, ensure it has a working battery. Some calipers come with a battery included in a sturdy plastic case. Check that the caliper is properly calibrated and ready for use.
Step 3: Measure the Outer Diameter
Place the caliper's jaws around the outer portion of the plastic drain valve. Ensure that the caliper's tips are firmly and evenly positioned on the valve. Take the measurement by reading the scale on the caliper. Note that pipe and tubing are measured differently. For plumbing, you generally want to measure the outside diameter, not the inside.
Step 4: Compare with a Pipe Sizing Chart
After obtaining the measurement from the caliper, refer to a pipe sizing chart. Compare your measurement with the standard sizes on the chart to identify the exact size of your plastic drain valve. This will help you determine the correct size for replacement or compatibility with other fittings.
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Comparing measurements to a pipe sizing chart
When measuring a plastic drain valve, it is important to know the material of the pipe and the pipe wall thickness. Different materials have different pipe wall thicknesses. For example, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipes are commonly used for kitchen and bathroom drains and outdoor drain pipes.
To measure the pipe, you can use a slide caliper, a simple tool that is easy to use and precise. It requires no special training or skill, and many versions give an electronic readout. You can use the caliper to measure the outer diameter of the pipe. This measurement is called the ""outer diameter"" and is taken from the very edge of the outside of the pipe to the very edge of the opposite side.
After taking the measurement, you can then compare it to a pipe sizing chart. Pipe sizing charts are extremely helpful guides that can help you determine the correct pipe size for your project. These charts are based on factors such as local plumbing codes, water pressure factors, and building structure.
For example, if you measured a diameter of 1.05 inches (27 mm), this would translate to a nominal size of 3/4 in NPS or 20 in DN. It is important to note that pipe sizes may not always match their nominal size. For instance, a 2" size pipe may not have an exact 2" diameter. Therefore, using a pipe sizing chart and understanding how pipe sizes are measured is crucial.
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Understanding nominal pipe size
Nominal Pipe Size, or 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. For example, a 2-inch nominal steel pipe consists of many varieties of steel pipe with the only criterion being a 2.375-inch (or 60.3 mm) outside diameter.
The metric equivalent of NPS is called DN or "diametre nominel". The metric designations conform to International Standards Organization (ISO) usage and apply to all plumbing, natural gas, heating oil, and miscellaneous piping used in buildings. The European and international designation equivalent to NPS is also DN (diamètre nominal/nominal diameter/Nennweite), in which sizes are measured in millimetres. The term NB (nominal bore) is also used interchangeably with DN.
The NPS standard is widely accepted in the USA, but some things have to be observed correctly in order to find the right nominal pipe size. NPS tells you the diameter of the outer wall of the pipe, but only for sizes larger than NPS 14. For smaller pipes of NPS 1/8 and up to NPS 12, the number is not directly connected to the outer diameter of the pipe. For instance, an NPS 12 pipe will have an outer diameter of 12.75 inches, while an NPS 14 pipe will have an outer diameter of 14 inches.
To measure the nominal pipe size, first take a measuring tape and measure the diameter of the pipe at the centre. This measurement should reach from the very edge of the outside of the pipe to the very edge of the opposite side. This measurement is called the "outer diameter". Next, match that measurement up with the pipe size chart. This chart includes sizes from 1/2" to 10". Without a chart, the dimensions could be deceiving. For example, a pipe with an outer diameter of 1.660" is a 1-1/4" size pipe, not a 1-1/2" size pipe as you might assume. That's why using a chart and understanding how PVC pipe sizes are measured is important.
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Measuring the diameter at the top of the drain hole
Firstly, remove the drain cover or grate. This step is essential as it provides access to the drain hole for measurement. Attempting to measure with the cover or grate in place may result in inaccurate dimensions.
Once the drain hole is exposed, take a measuring tape and carefully measure the diameter at the very top of the hole. This measurement should represent the distance from one outer edge of the hole to the opposite outer edge. It is important to measure at the outermost points to obtain the outer diameter, as this value will be used to determine the appropriate pipe size.
After obtaining the measurement, it is advisable to refer to a pipe sizing chart. Comparing your measurement to a standardised chart will help you identify the nominal pipe size that corresponds to your drain hole diameter. This step ensures that you select the correct size for any plumbing products you intend to purchase.
In situations where you are unsure between two sizes, it is generally recommended to round up to the nearest size. This precautionary approach helps ensure that the product you choose will fit appropriately and function as intended. By following these steps and referring to the appropriate sizing charts, you can confidently measure the diameter at the top of the drain hole and make informed decisions when purchasing plumbing products.
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Frequently asked questions
To measure the size of a plastic drain valve, you need to first remove the drain cover/grate. Then, use a measuring tape to measure the outer diameter of the pipe at its centre. This measurement should go from the outer edge of the pipe to the very edge of the opposite side.
You can then compare your measurement with a pipe sizing chart to identify the exact size of your pipe.
Pipe and tubing are measured differently. Pipe size charts are based on the outside diameter of the pipe, whereas tubing size charts are based on the inside diameter.
