1. What is Pipe Stress Calculation?

Pipe stress calculation determines the stress experienced by a pipe wall due to internal pressure. It's a fundamental calculation in piping design to ensure structural integrity and safety.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pipe stress formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Internal pressure (psi)
• \( D \) — Pipe diameter (inches)
• \( t \) — Pipe wall thickness (inches)

Explanation: The formula calculates hoop stress (circumferential stress) in thin-walled pipes under internal pressure.

3. Importance of Pipe Stress Calculation

Details: Proper stress calculation ensures pipes can withstand operating pressures without failure, prevents leaks and ruptures, and helps select appropriate pipe materials and dimensions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter pressure in psi, diameter and thickness in inches. All values must be positive numbers. The calculator assumes thin-walled pipe theory (D/t > 20).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between hoop stress and longitudinal stress?
A: Hoop stress (calculated here) acts circumferentially and is twice the longitudinal stress that acts along the pipe length.

Q2: When is thin-walled pipe assumption valid?
A: When diameter to thickness ratio (D/t) is greater than 20. For thicker pipes, more complex calculations are needed.

Q3: What safety factors should be applied?
A: Typical safety factors range from 1.5 to 4 depending on application, material, and consequences of failure.

Q4: Does this account for external loads?
A: No, this only calculates stress from internal pressure. External loads (weight, thermal expansion) require additional analysis.

Q5: What are typical allowable stresses for common pipe materials?
A: Carbon steel: 15,000-20,000 psi, Stainless steel: 20,000-25,000 psi, PVC: 2,000-5,000 psi (varies by grade and temperature).