4 replies to this topic

[Kachisa]

Hi All,

i'd like to know if normally a steel pipe 4'', sch STD can support a full vacuum during normal operation ?

 

Thank you

[fallah]

 

i'd like to know if normally a steel pipe 4'', sch STD can support a full vacuum during normal operation ?

 

 

Kachisa,

 

For evaluation of the capability of a pipe in vacuum you will need to follow the applicable piping code. If that code would be ASME B31.3, paragraph 304.1.3 direct you to ASME BPV code Sec. VIII, Div. 1, para. UG-28 through UG-30.
 

[Kachisa]

Thank you so much Mr. Fallah.

I will take a detailed look on it.

[sgkim]

Kachisa, 

 

Fermi Lab provided an useful chart to determine the minimum thickness of some long metal pipes for full vacuum services.

The following site may help:   http://lss.fnal.gov/...ab-tm-1378.pdf 

 

Regards,

~Stefano Kim

[sugarmill apprentice]

The short answer to your question is YES. A 4-inch diameter standard wall (Sch. 40) pipe will easily handle a vacuum.

However, you need to be careful about everything else.

For example, make sure butterfly valves are designed for vacuum service.

If not, the vacuum can draw in valve linings, which will be cut and the valve can fail the first time it goes through an operating cycle.