Line Pipe Dimensions and Schedule in Inches Chart (API 5L)

Line Pipe Dimensions and Schedule

Line pipe dimensions and schedule follows a set of standards to classify pipe that can be utilized for high or low temperatures and pressures. In the United States, the dimension of the line pipe describes the normal bore (NB) of the pipe. NB is usually used interchangeably with nominal pipe size (NPS), which defines the size of the pipe.

As an example, in a 4-inch pipe, the four inches defines the nominal size of the pipe. For pipe ranging from 1/8” to 12”, the NPS is neither the outer diameter (OD) nor the inner diameter (ID). For pipe with NPS of 14” and above, the nominal pipe size equates with the outer diameter.

Line pipe is not only determined by their diameter, but also by another non-dimensional number called the line pipe schedule. The schedule of the line pipe pertains to the way pipe wall thickness is described. Line pipe schedule can be classified as standard weight or STD; extra-strong or XS; extra-heavy or XH; double extra-strong or XXS; or double extra-heavy or XXH.

To keep up with the growing industry, various revisions and additions were made to the line pipe dimensions and schedule, following the standards provided by different institutions, including the American Petroleum Institute (API).

Line Pipe Dimensions and Schedule of API 5L

Line pipe dimensions and schedule of API 5L pipes is set by the API to guarantee the quality of the pipe for oil and natural gas conveyance. The specifications allow the regulation of the Standard Grade A, Grade B, and Grade X pipe utilization.

The line pipe can be availed of as seamless or electric resistance weld (ERW), depending on the need of applications in the gas system.

Line Pipe Dimensions and Schedule Significance

The dimension of the line pipe is described using the outer diameter (OD), pipe length, and wall thickness (WT). With the help of these numbers, the pipe weight can be calculated in terms of the cost of the pipe per meter or per foot, and even the amount of pressure that the pipe can tolerate.

The schedule of the line pipe is an important factor in the oil and gas drilling industry, as this defines whether the pipe can fit inside the casing and screen.

Line Pipe Dimensions and Schedule in Inches Chart (API 5L)

 

Line pipe dimensions and schedule of the API 5L pipe presents characters using the nominal bore (NB), diameter nominal (DN), outer diameter (OD) in inches, and pipe schedule. NB is roughly associated with the pipe’s inner diameter (ID), while OD remains constant for each NB.

Each pipe size is presented with various schedules or wall thickness.  The heavier the line pipe’s schedule is, the smaller the bore.

Line Pipe Dimensions and Schedule in Inches Chart Abbreviations:

• N.B. – Nominal Bore
• D.N. – Diameter Nominal
• O.D. – Outer Diameter
• SCH – Pipe Schedule

Optimizing Your Pipeline System with Proper Line Pipe Selection

When designing and implementing pipeline systems for oil and gas transportation, understanding the detailed specifications provided in the Line Pipe Dimensions and Schedule in Inches Chart (API 5L) is crucial for ensuring operational integrity, regulatory compliance, and cost-effective project execution. The comprehensive dimensional data enables engineers and procurement specialists to select the optimal pipe specifications based on specific flow requirements, pressure ratings, and installation parameters. At FlowTech Energy, we maintain an extensive inventory of API 5L compliant line pipe across all common dimensions and schedules, providing operators with reliable options for both new installations and replacement projects.

Our technical experts can help you navigate the complexities of line pipe selection, ensuring you choose the right combination of nominal bore, outer diameter, and schedule for your specific pipeline application. We understand that proper dimensional specification is critical not only for immediate compatibility with existing infrastructure but also for long-term operational performance and maintenance considerations. Contact us today at 1-877-645-6693 to discuss how our inventory of quality line pipe can provide the perfect balance of flow capacity, pressure resistance, and structural durability for your next pipeline project. Whether you’re working with standard weight applications or need extra-heavy wall thickness for high-pressure environments, our comprehensive selection of API 5L line pipe ensures you’ll find the exact specifications needed to optimize both safety and efficiency throughout your pipeline system’s operational lifecycle.

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