Pipe Thickness Calculation Excel Sheet

Pipe Wall Thickness Formula:

\[ t = \frac{P \times D}{2 \times S \times E} \]

Internal Pressure (P):

Outer Diameter (D):

Allowable Stress (S):

Joint Efficiency (E):

Wall Thickness (t):

1. What is Pipe Thickness Calculation?

Definition: This calculator determines the minimum required wall thickness of a pipe based on internal pressure, diameter, material strength, and joint efficiency.

Purpose: It helps engineers and designers ensure pipes can safely withstand operating pressures while optimizing material usage.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ t = \frac{P \times D}{2 \times S \times E} \]

Where:

\( t \) — Wall thickness (meters)
\( P \) — Internal pressure (Pascals)
\( D \) — Outer diameter (meters)
\( S \) — Allowable stress (Pascals)
\( E \) — Joint efficiency (dimensionless, 0-1)

Explanation: The formula calculates the minimum thickness needed to resist the hoop stress caused by internal pressure.

3. Importance of Pipe Thickness Calculation

Details: Proper thickness calculation ensures pipe integrity under pressure while avoiding over-engineering and excessive material costs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the internal pressure, outer diameter, allowable stress (from material specs), and joint efficiency (default 0.85 for welded joints). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What units should I use?
A: The calculator uses SI units (meters, Pascals). For psi and inches, convert before entering values.

Q2: What's a typical joint efficiency value?
A: 1.0 for seamless pipes, 0.85 for welded joints with radiography, 0.7 for welded joints without radiography.

Q3: Does this include safety factors?
A: The allowable stress (S) typically already includes safety factors per applicable codes (ASME B31.3 etc.).

Q4: How do I find allowable stress for my material?
A: Consult material specifications or piping codes for the specific material grade and temperature.

Q5: What about corrosion allowance?
A: This calculator gives minimum thickness. Add corrosion allowance to the result based on service conditions.