Analysis of pressure levels of steel pipe fittings

Overview of pressure ratings for steel pipe fittings:
The pressure rating of a pipe fitting refers to the maximum pressure value that the pipe fitting can withstand under specific working conditions. Usually PN, CLASS, lbs and other signs are used to represent different pressure levels. PN is the European standard, CLASS is the American standard, and lbs is the British standard. Different countries, regions, and industries will use different identification methods.

Pressure grade identification of common pipe fittings:
1. Welding flange

Welding flanges are divided into PN10, PN16, PN25, PN40, CLASS150, CLASS300, CLASS600 and so on according to the pressure level.

2. Seamless steel pipe
Seamless steel pipes are divided into PN10, PN16, PN25, PN40, PN64, PN100, PN160 and so on according to the pressure grade.

3. Pipe cap
Pipe caps are divided into PN6, PN10, PN16, PN25, CLASS150, CLASS300, CLASS600, CLASS900 and so on according to the pressure level.

4. Elbow
Elbows are divided into PN10, PN16, PN25, PN40, PN64, PN100, PN160, CLASS150, CLASS300, CLASS600 and so on according to the pressure level.

How to choose the right pressure level?

1. Determine the pressure level of the pipe fitting according to the working pressure to ensure that the pipe fitting can withstand the maximum pressure value under working conditions.

The determination of pressure level is the core of pressure pipeline design, a prerequisite for layout and stress verification, and an important factor affecting pressure pipeline infrastructure investment and pipeline reliability. The pressure grade of a pipeline includes two aspects: the nominal pressure grade of standard pipe fittings (expressed in nominal pressure) and the wall thickness grade (expressed in wall thickness grade). Usually, the pressure grade of a pipeline is a parameter determined by the nominal pressure grade and wall thickness grade of standard pipe fittings.

When determining the pressure level of a pipeline, the following aspects need to be considered: the properties of the medium transported by the pipeline (such as flow, density, viscosity, temperature, pressure and other parameters), the materials and processes of the pipeline itself (such as the material of the pipeline, internal coating, manufacturing standards, etc.), the external pressure or load that the pipeline system needs to withstand (such as earthquakes, wind loads, bracket loads, etc.) and the determination of the required safety factor and service life (such as service life, stress, fatigue, cracks, etc.). Based on these indicators and actual engineering needs, systematic calculation and analysis can be performed to determine the required pressure level of the pipeline. At the same time, it is also necessary to consider the relevant national standards and regulations, as well as the actual on-site conditions and safety requirements.

2. Pipe fittings that comply with national, regional, and industry standards should be selected to ensure project quality and safety.
3. Select appropriate pipe fitting materials and pressure levels according to the nature of the pipeline medium to ensure the normal operation and service life of the pipeline.

In short, the pressure level of pipe fittings is one of the key factors to be considered during the design and implementation of the pipeline system. Reasonable selection of the appropriate pressure level can ensure the normal operation and safety of the pipeline system.

Go here to learn more: Uses, types and standards of pipe fittings