To accurately determine the size of a PVC pipe, it's best to measure its inside diameter (ID).
Here's a breakdown of how to do it:
Measuring the Inside Diameter (ID)
- Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the distance across the inside of the pipe. This measurement represents the ID. According to the provided information, measuring the ID is the most accurate way to determine the size of a PVC pipe.
Using the Outside Diameter (OD)
- If you can only measure the outside diameter (OD) of the pipe, you can use a PVC Pipe Dimensions table to estimate the nominal pipe size.
- A PVC Pipe Dimensions table shows the relationship between nominal pipe size, OD, and wall thickness.
PVC Pipe Dimensions Table Example (Hypothetical)
While a dimensions table wasn't provided directly, here's an example of what it might look like. Note: These are example values and may not be accurate.
| Nominal Pipe Size (inches) | Outside Diameter (inches) |
|---|---|
| 1/2 | 0.840 |
| 3/4 | 1.050 |
| 1 | 1.315 |
- How to use it: Measure the OD. Find the closest OD value in the table. The corresponding "Nominal Pipe Size" is likely the size of your PVC pipe.
Important Considerations:
- Nominal vs. Actual: PVC pipe sizes are nominal, meaning they don't represent the actual dimensions. A 1-inch PVC pipe does not have an ID or OD of exactly 1 inch.
- Accuracy: Measuring the ID provides the most accurate assessment of the pipe's size.
