Iron Pipe Size
Iron Pipe Size, abbreviated as IPS, were originally established for wrought iron pipe. ASME B36.10M - Welded and Seamless Wrought Steel Pipe lists these dimensions. Before the schedule numbers for steel pipe was published by American Standards Association in 1935, the iron pipe size was modified slightly decreasing the wall thickness so the weight per foot (lb/ft) equaled the iron pipe weights. IPS is a standardized system of nominal pipe sizes that originated from the plumbing industry and is still widely used today. Despite the name, it's not restricted to iron pipes, it applies to pipes made from various materials, including steel, plastic, copper, and more. IPS is commonly used in North America, especially in the United States.
IPS provides a convenient way to refer to the dimensions of pipes, particularly their outside diameters (OD) and wall thicknesses. The nominal size assigned to a pipe does not necessarily correspond to its actual outside diameter or inside diameter, but it's a standardized designation used for consistency in the industry.
For example, a nominal pipe size of 1 inch (1") under the IPS system doesn't mean the pipe's outside diameter is precisely one inch. The actual outside diameter can be larger due to the wall thickness and other factors. The IPS system uses a schedule number to denote the wall thickness of the pipes, which can vary for different nominal sizes. Each schedule has a different wall thickness and pressure rating, allowing pipes of different sizes to handle various pressure and load requirements.
It's important to understand that the IPS system can sometimes lead to confusion, especially when dealing with materials like plastic pipes, which have different dimensions compared to metal pipes. When working with pipes, it's essential to consult the relevant standards and guidelines to ensure accurate selection and installation based on the specific application's requirements.
Tags: Pipe