Sch 40 Steel Pipe Dimensions And Weight

"Sch 40 steel pipe" refers to the thickness and pressure rating of the pipe.

Schedule 40 steel pipe is a standard pipe material whose wall thickness and pressure rating are certified by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). It is made from various materials such as steel and stainless steel and is primarily used in piping, irrigation, drainage, and industrial projects. The main advantages of Sch 40 steel pipe are its durability and low cost, making it suitable for various applications.

ANSI and ASME Standards

Sch 40 steel pipe must conform to both ANSI and ASME standards. These standards set the same benchmarks for pipe size, pressure rating, and materials.

Pipe size, tolerances, and other factors are defined in ANSI standards, while ASME standards cover the application of the piping system. Therefore, Schedule 40 piping is widely used for fluid transport in piping and industrial systems.

Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) Explanation

Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) is a coded size system that is very useful in determining pipe diameter. However, the NPS value is not equal to the actual measured pipe diameter. It is a method of measuring different sizes of pipe, not only the pipe diameter but also the pipe thickness.

When the nominal size of a pipe is NPS 14 or greater, the NPS value typically corresponds to the actual outer diameter measured in inches. For smaller pipes, the relationship is different, depending on the pipe gauge.

Wall Thickness and Dimensions

Schedule 40 is one of the most widely used piping specifications because it achieves a perfect balance of performance, strength, and cost. The term "size" indicates the relationship between pipe wall thickness and diameter, which directly determines the pipe's pressure capacity.

The wall thickness of Schedule 40 steel pipes is determined by their nominal pipe size. For example, a 1 inch NPS Schedule 40 pipe has a wall thickness of approximately 0.133 inches, while a 10 inch NPS Schedule 40 pipe has a wall thickness of approximately 0.365 inches.

Importantly, wall thickness does not increase with increasing pipe diameter. Therefore, larger pipes may be thinner than smaller ones.

Sch 40 Steel Pipe Dimensions And Weight

The table below lists the diameter, wall thickness, and corresponding weight of ASME B36.19 standard:

NPS (DN)	Schedule  No	Outside Diameter, in. (mm)	Wall   Thickness in. (mm)	Plain End Weight  (Mass) Ib/ft(kg/m)
1/8(6)	40S	0.405(10.29)	0.068(1.73)	0.24(0.37)
1/4(8)	40S	0.540(13.72)	0.088(2.24)	0.43(0.63)
3/8(10)	40S	0.675(17.14)	0.091 (2.31)	0.57 (0.84)
1/2(15)	40S	0.840(21.34)	0.109(2.77)	0.85(1.27)
3/4(20)	40S	1.050(26.67)	0.113(2.87）	1.13(1.68)
1(25)	40S	1.315 (33.40)	0.133 (3.38)	1.68  (2.50)
1 1/4 (32)	40S	1.660 (42.16)	0.140(3.56)	2.27(3.39）
1 1/2 (40)	40S	1.900(48.26)	0.145(3.68)	2.72 (4.05)
2(50)	40S	2.375(60.32)	0.154(3.91)	3.66(5.44)
2 1/2(65)	40S	2.875(73.02)	0.203 (5.16)	5.80(8.64)
3(80)	40S	3.500(88.90)	0.216(5.49)	7.58(11.29)
3 1/2(90)	40S	4.000(101.60)	0.226(5.74)	9.12(13.57)
4(100)	40S	4.500(114.30)	0.237(6.02)	10.80(16.08)
5(125)	40S	5.563(141.30)	0.258(6.55)	14.63(21.77)
6(150)	40S	6.625(168.28)	0.280(7.11)	18.99(28.26)
8(200)	40S	8.625(219.08)	0.322(8.18)	28.58(42.55)
10(250)	40S	10.75(273.0)	0.365(9.27)	40.52(60.29)
12(300)	40S	12.75(323.8)	0.375(9.52)	49.61(73.79)
14(350)	40S	14.00(355.6)	0.375(9.52)	54.62(81.25)
16(400)	40S	16.00(406.4)	0.375(9.52)	62.64(93.18)
18(450)	40S	18.00(457.2)	0.375(9.52)	70.65(105.17)
20(500)	40S	20.00(508.0)	0.375(9.52)	78.67(117.03)
24(600)	40S	24.00(609.6)	0.375(9.52)	94.71(140.89)

Sch 40 Steel Pipe Applications

Construction: Among the various applications of metal, the primary uses are structural support, scaffolding, and piping systems for residential and commercial buildings.

Agriculture: Its applications include irrigation systems, greenhouse structures, and water transport.

Manufacturing: This metal is used to manufacture industrial pipelines for transporting liquids and gases in factories.

Oil and Gas: It is used for transporting products, drilling activities, and constructing supporting structures.

Water Treatment: Sch 40 steel pipe is irreplaceable in water treatment and distribution systems, filtration, and wastewater management.

Sch 40 Steel Pipe Installation Guide

Procedure: Before installation begins, ensure all tools and materials are ready. This includes cutting tools, threading equipment, pipe wrenches, sealant, and measuring equipment. Inspect the pipes for damage and remove any dirt or other substances.

Cutting and Threading: Ensure the correct cutting tools are used to not only isolate pipe components but also create a strong, bonded lip and edge. Additionally, if the pipes are threaded, ensure the connection is smooth and precise to prevent leaks during use.

Assembly and Alignment: Pipes should be carefully installed onto the fittings to ensure unrestricted flow and proper pressure throughout the system. Incorrect adjustment can lead to inefficiency or damage to the machine.

Sealing: Applying the correct sealant or tape to the threaded areas of the pipes is crucial to ensure the joints are waterproof and gas-proof. Application should be consistent and complete to prevent any leaks.

Protection: Support the pipes using clamps, brackets, or other methods. This is essential to prevent tensile stress on the joints and to maintain the stability of the entire system during operation.

Testing and Inspection: After installation and sealing, pressure testing and inspection should be performed to detect leaks and weak points. Address all issues immediately, then begin full system operation.

Maintenance Practices: Conduct regular inspections and maintenance to monitor the strength of the pipeline throughout its lifespan. This not only ensures consistent pipeline performance but also extends its service life.

FAQs

What is Schedule 40 Pipe?

Schedule 40 pipe is a type of steel pipe, also known as Sch 40, and is an ASTM-certified product. It refers to the pipe wall thickness, which, according to the standard, is determined by the pipe diameter.

What are the dimensions of 40 Sch steel pipe?

The dimensions of 40 Sch steel pipe depend on the nominal diameter (NPS). For example, the outer diameter and thickness of 40 Sch steel pipe are limited by standard weight classes. A complete 40 Sch steel pipe size chart can help you determine the specific size suitable for your application.

What is the pressure rating of Schedule 40 pipe?

The pressure rating of Schedule 40 pipe depends on its size and material. It can withstand pressures up to 1 MPa, which is still within the range of medium pressure applications, and the pipe is 5-10 times lighter than higher-strength pipes. Therefore, if your process requires higher pressures, then the thicker, stronger Schedule 80 and XXS pipes are your preferred choice.

Can 40 Schedule steel pipe be used for chemical processing?

Of course, 40 schedule steel pipes, once galvanized or hot-dip galvanized, can be used in chemical processing. The latter gives the former stronger corrosion resistance, making it ideal for transporting corrosive substances.

How much does a Sch 40 steel pipe weigh?

The diameter, dimensions, and wall thickness determine the weight of a Sch 40 steel pipe. For example, an NPS 10 gauge Sch 40 steel pipe weighs approximately 1.68 pounds per foot. Therefore, understanding the weight of 40sch steel pipe is an important factor to consider when planning transportation and installation.

What are the applications of Schedule 40 pipes?

Schedule 40 pipes are widely used in various fields, including low-pressure water applications, domestic piping, and industrial piping systems. Their strength and durability in natural gas and water transportation make them suitable even for harsh conditions.