Lesson 3 CE 317

TUBING AND PIPE SIZES

Historically, pipe size was based on cast iron's inside diameter. Later, it switched to
the outside diameter standard for better compatibility.

Pipe sizes are based on IPS (standard iron pipe size) but vary with different materials,
leading to varying inside diameters. Nominal diameter is still used to name pipes.

In the IPS system, female fittings are called FIP, and male fittings are called MIP. NPS
(Nominal Pipe Size) and IPS can be used interchangeably, and they both refer to the
pipe's nominal diameter, not its actual diameter.

Nominal size is a standard label for pipe or fitting size, not based on exact
measurements. It is usually rounded or fractional for convenience.

A “half-inch” pipe may differ in diameter. Nominal size identifies and categorizes
components from standardized systems (e.g., IPS or NPS) for plumbing and
construction.

Pipe and tubing differ in measurement standard. Copper tubing, thinner-walled, uses
CTS standard, which matches its nominal size better than pipes.

The current standard designates products in IPS size as pipe and in CTS size as
tubing. However, CPVC is an exception, labeled as pipe but sold in CTS size.

Pipe has various thicknesses or schedules, with standards by ASTM. Each pipe
schedule has ASTM standard for its specific use.

PIPE PRESSURE RATING

With the exception of sewer and drainage pipe, all pipe is pressure rated. There are
several different methods of determining pressure ratings:

The schedule number is obtained from the expression 1000 P/S, where P is the
service pressure and S is the allowable stress, both being expressed in the same
units.

SDR is “Standard Dimension Ratio” for pipes, showing the ratio of outside diameter
to wall thickness, indicating pipe’s wall thickness by size.

The formula for calculating SDR is:

SDR = Outside Diameter ÷ Wall Thickness

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SDR aids in choosing suitable plastic pipes like polyethylene (PE) for specific
applications, considering pressure ratings and strength requirements.

Pipe pressure-level ratings show pipe's pressure limit at a temperature. Common

ratings are 50, 100, and 125 psi (340, 690, and 860 kPa); and 160, 200, 250, and 315
psi (1.1, 1.4, 1.7, and 2.2 MPa).

Steel and iron pipes are by weight: standard wall (Std), extra strong wall (XS), and
double extra strong wall (XXS). The last two may be extra heavy wall (XH) and double
extra heavy wall (XXH). Wrought-iron pipes use Std, XS, and XXS instead of schedule
numbers.

FITTINGS AND VALVES

Elbows - usually at 45° and 90°, are angular fittings used to change the direction of a
supply pipe. On a sanitary drainage system, a sanitary bend makes a more gradual
turn to prevent blockage.

Tees - Tees branch off a straight run in supply systems. Reducing tees connect
different pipe sizes. Sanitary T and Y fittings aid drainage with gradual turns to
prevent blockage. A sanitary Y can accommodate two or three branches before
combining flow into one pipe.

Couplings - are used to join straight runs of pipe.

Union - joins straight runs of pipe but also lets the pipes disconnect easily when
piping revisions or equipment replacement are expected.

Reducer - is a straight fitting used to decrease the diameter in a pipe in a water

supply system.

Increaser - is a straight fitting used to increase the diameter in a pipe in a sanitary

drainage system.

Adapters - are used in a supply system where threaded pipe is being connected to
copper or thermoplastic. Adapters have one threaded end to accommodate
threaded pipe.

JOINING PIPES AND FITTINGS

Pipes and fittings are joined by threaded, insert fittings with crimped or clamped
connections, hub and spigot, and flared joints. Fire sprinkler pipes use grooved
Victaulic fittings.

Threading - It's like twisting the straws so they can lock together like a screw.

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Crimped or Clamped Connections - This is like using special clips to hold the straws
tightly together.

Hub and Spigot Joints - Think of it like one straw having a thick end (hub) that fits
into the other straw's opening (spigot).

Flared Joints - It's like putting the metal ends of the straws close to each other,
creating a strong connection.

In special places like fire sprinkler systems, we use grooved Victaulic fittings, which
are like connectors that join the pipes easily and securely, like fitting puzzle pieces.

Soldering, brazing, and welding are like gluing metal pieces together. In soldering
and brazing, we use a special metal glue that melts easily and goes between the
pieces, making them stick. Soldering is for cold glue, while brazing is stronger and
can handle hot glue. Welding is like melting the metal pieces a little bit, making the
strongest stick.

Solvent-cementing and fusion welding are like sticking plastic pipes together.
Solvent-cementing uses a sticky coat on the pipes, while fusion welding melts the
surface of the pipes together.

Valves - are used to control water flow in the system. Valves location simplifies
repairs to the system, fixtures, or equipment. Valves also regulate flow to deliver the
right water amount and save water.

Gate valve - is a manual valve with a wedge-shaped leaf that seals tightly against two
metal seats at slight angles when closed.It is used to open or close water flow
completely, especially for repairs and replacements.

Globe valve - is a manual, compression-type valve, used where there is occasional or

periodic use, like lavatories (faucets) and hose connections. It regulates water flow.

Angle valve - is a manual valve similar in operation to the globe valve, utilizing the
same principle of compressing a washer against a metal seat to cut the flow of
water.

Check valve - opens to allow the flow of water in the direction desired and prevents
flow in the other direction.

Ball valve - is a manual valve that has a ball with a hole through it that is mounted
between two seats.

Metered valves - are designed to automatically discharge for a specific length of time
and thus deliver a fixed quantity of water before closing off flow. They turn off water
in public restrooms.

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Flow control valve - automatically adjusts the rate of water flow to a predetermined
flow rate as pressure in the system varies. It limits the flow at an outlet to keep the
demand at the minimum level.

Thermostatic valve - frequently called a tempering valve or mixing valve, is an

automatic valve thermostatically blends hot and cold water to desired temperatures
and to prevent scalding.

Temperature-pressure relief (T/P) valve - is a safety valve designed to limit pressure

of a liquid vapor or gas. They protect water heaters and boilers from overheating.

Pressure-reducing valve - is an adjustable valve designed to reduce pressure to a

specific setting. It lowers street water pressure before supplying to plumbing
fixtures.

Hose bibb - is a valve designed to accept the threaded connection of a hose.

Flushometer - A flushometer flushes toilets and urinals with a fixed water amount. It
shuts off automatically to save water and uses water pressure, not gravity to
discharge water.

Sensor-operated valve - The device has a sensor that can tell when someone is near
the fixture and when they leave. It flushes the fixture by itself using a device that
opens and closes a valve.

PLUMBING FIXTURES

Plumbing fixtures are water-using and wastewater-discharging devices like water

closets, urinals, faucets, and showers. They must be durable, nonabsorbent, and
visible.

Fixtures are selected by designers, architects, engineers, plumbers, or owners.

Accurate design requires knowing chosen fixtures, including manufacturer and
model.

Careful selection is crucial for long-term use. Check sizes, dimensions, and
availability. Choose colors as needed. Fixtures are categorized by use, and when they
share common drainage, they are referred to as a group of fixtures.

Water closet - A water closet is a plumbing fixture utilized indoors to collect and
dispose of human waste. While it is commonly known as a toilet or commode, the
building code specifically identifies it as a water closet.

Urinal - Urinals are plumbing fixtures frequently found in public restrooms,

particularly where minimizing potential contamination of water closet seats is
desirable.

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Waterless urinal - A waterless urinal is designed to eliminate the use of potable
water for flushing. It closely resembles a conventional urinal, with the only difference
being the absence of a flush valve and the piping typically located above the fixture.

Bidets - are personal hygiene plumbing fixtures employed for genital and perineal
cleanliness, commonly used after using the water closet.

Bathtubs - are plumbing fixtures designed for bathing purposes and are available in
a range of materials, including fiberglass and enameled steel tubs, among others.

Shower heads - is an overhead nozzle that releases water onto the bather. In some
cases, shower fittings are positioned over bathtubs instead of having a separate
shower space, which is a common practice in residences, apartments, and motels.

Lavatory - is a bathroom basin or sink used for personal hygiene purposes. Lavatories
are typically made of vitreous china or enameled iron, and they can also be cast in
plastic or a plastic compound with the basin integrated into the countertop. In
addition, stainless steel lavatories are available for applications where high
vandalism is a concern.

Sinks - are predominantly crafted from enameled cast iron or stainless steel. They
typically come in single- or double-bowl configurations, with some models even
featuring a smaller third bowl. Additionally, a waste disposal unit is commonly
connected to one of the sink drains.

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS FOR RESTROOMS

A Restroom is a personal hygiene facility offered to the public, patrons, or customers

for the purpose of accessing a water closet. An attentively designed restroom
enhances the experience for both users and those responsible for maintaining the
facilities.

Restrooms with multiple water closets must have partitioned stalls for privacy, as per
building codes. Similarly, wall partitions are required between urinals to ensure
privacy and prevent splashing, in accordance with code regulations.

Automated "touch-free" fixtures and dispensers effectively curb disease

transmission and minimize costs by regulating product usage. However, to account
for potential device failures, it is crucial to equip them with manual operation
capabilities. Additionally, mirror placement requires careful consideration to avoid
unintended reflections compromising privacy in certain areas.

Designers of restroom spaces should always consult local building codes for
requirements specific to the building site. Typical accessibility requirements for
restrooms are as follows:

> An accessible entry on an accessible route.

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> A 60 in (1500 mm) diameter clear space within the restroom. Only one door, in any
position, can infringe upon this clear space by no more than 12 in (300 mm).

> At least one men’s and one women’s accessible water closet stall door with a 32 in
(800 mm) minimum.
> Grab bars behind (rear) and on one side of each accessible water closet that are
mounted 33 to 36 in (840 to 910 mm) from the centerline of the grab bar to the
finished floor.
> Side grab bars shall be 42 in (1050 mm) long and mounted 12 in (300 mm) from the
rear wall.
> Rear grab bars should be a minimum of 36 in long (900 mm) and mounted a
maximum of 6 in (150 mm) from the side wall
> The diameter of grab bars should be between 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 in (30 to 40 mm) with
1 1/2 in (40 mm) clearance from the wall.
> A 48 in (1200 mm) clear space in front, and 32 in (800 mm) clear space on one side,
of each accessible water closet.
> Top of each accessible water closet seat measured between 17 to 19 in (425 to 475
mm) from floor.
> At least one accessible lavatory with 29 in (725 mm) clearance underneath, bladed
valve handles, and insulated hot water drain pipes.
> At least one accessible mirror bottom mounted 40 in (1000 mm) maximum above
floor.
> Dispensers (at least one towel, sanitary napkin, seat cover, soap) mounted with
highest operable part 40 in (1000 mm) maximum above floor.

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LOCAL BUILDING CODE PHILIPPINES
SECTION 901: General Requirements

General Requirements Subject to the provisions of Book II of the Civil Code of the
Philippines on Property, Ownership, and its Modification, all buildings hereafter
erected, altered, remodeled, relocated or repaired for human habitation shall be
provided with: adequate and potable water supply, plumbing installation, and
suitable wastewater treatment or disposal system, storm water drainage, pest and
vermin control noise abatement device other measures required for the protection
and promotion of health of persons occupying the premises and others living nearby.

LOCAL BUILDING CODE PHILIPPINES

SECTION 902: Water Supply System

1. Whenever available, the potable water requirements for a building used for
human habitation shall be supplied from existing municipal or city waterworks
system.

2. The quality of drinking water from meteoric, surface or underground sources shall
conform to the criteria set in the latest approved National Standards for Drinking
Water Standards.

3. The design, construction and operation of deepwells for the abstraction of

groundwater shall be subject to the provisions of the Water Code of the Philippines
(PD 1067).

4. The design, construction and operation of independent waterwork systems of

private housing subdivisions or industrial estates shall be governed by existing laws
relating to local waterworks system.

5. The water piping installation for water supply and distribution to each fixture
including the wastewater drainage with proper venting inside building and premises,
shall conform to. the provision of the Revised National Plumbing Code of the
Philippines.

LOCAL BUILDING CODE PHILIPPINES

SECTION 903: Wastewater Disposal System

1. Sanitary sewage from buildings and neutralized or pre-treated industria)

wastewater shall be discharged directly into the nearest street sanitary sewer main

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of existing municipal or city sanitary sewerage system in accordance with the criteria
set by the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines and the Department of Environment
and Natural Resources (DENR).

2. All buildings located in areas where ,there are no available sanitary sewerage
system shall dispose their sewage to ''imhoff" or septic tank and subsurface
absorption field or to a suitable waste water treatment plant or disposal system in
accordance with the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines and the Revised National
Plumbing Code of the Philippines.

3. Sanitary and industrial plumbing installations inside buildings and premises shall
conform to he provisions of the Revised National Rating Code of the Philippines.

CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS

To effectively communicate design information to the contractor, a comprehensive

set of construction drawings and specifications for the building's plumbing system is
essential. These plumbing construction drawings provide detailed illustrations and
layouts of the plumbing installation design.

The necessary construction drawings and details typically include:

> Piping sizes, indicating the diameter and material of the water supply lines.
> Valve locations, specifying the placement of shut-off valves and control valves in
the water distribution system.
> Water heater details, providing information about the type, capacity, and location
of the water heater(s) in the building.
> Temperature-pressure relief valves with discharge pipes are safety valves designed
to control water system pressure and temperature. They ensure safe water release
when necessary.

The specifications should encompass piping material fixture details incorporating the
following:

> Determining the number of required plumbing fixtures based on the occupant
load.
> Specifying the quantity and distribution of fixtures based on the occupant load.
> Provision of separate facilities for each gender.
> Inclusion of accessible plumbing fixtures and related details to ensure compliance
with accessibility requirements

ADMINISTRATION OF THE CODE

In areas where building codes apply, a local governmental entity, such as a city or
county, typically has a building department responsible for overseeing construction
matters. This department handles permits for building construction, additions,

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alterations, repairs, occupancy, use, and maintenance of all structures and utilities
within its jurisdiction.

A building inspector, acting on behalf of a governmental entity, is responsible for

administering and enforcing local codes. The inspector's initial task involves
assessing proposed construction documents, including drawings and specifications,
to ensure they align with the relevant codes, regulations, and ordinances.

Plumbing inspections become compulsory at the local level in municipalities that

have integrated inspection requirements into their plumbing code. The specific
process may differ based on each local jurisdiction; however, typical residential or
commercial code-compliance inspections usually unfold in three distinct phases:

Underground Inspection phase - the inspector examines the sewer and water
services from the city mains to the property. They ensure that the construction of
these services utilized appropriate materials that meet the required standards.

Rough-In Inspection - involves assessing the interior drainage, waste vent, and water
supply piping. The inspector verifies the adequacy of plumbing materials used,
examines the sizing of water, waste, and vent piping, checks the drainage piping's
grade, and ensures the quality of connections between pipes and fittings.

Final Inspection - the inspector evaluates the proper installation and alignment of
fixtures, such as bathtubs, water closets, lavatories, kitchen sinks, etc. They check for
appropriate caulking around fixtures, ensure the presence of acceptable shower
valves, and review other essential aspects to ensure the completion of the plumbing
project to code and standards.

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