PVF Reference Library
Sizes, standards, wall charts and how to identify what’s in front of you, written for PVF and plumbing counters, buyers and the customers they serve.
168 sheets planned · 35 published · 9 sections. New sheets are added as they’re written.
Written in the open: anyone can suggest an edit on any sheet. Help write or review it →
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- Master Guide to Pipe Sizes, Schedules & Wall ThicknessHow NPS, outside diameter and schedule relate, with dimensions for common sizesRef PV-0001
- Valve Types ExplainedGate, globe, ball, butterfly, check, plug, needle and diaphragm valves and what each is forRef PV-0002
- Pressure Class & Flange Ratings ExplainedWhat ASME flange classes mean, why rated pressure depends on material and temperature, and where to look it upRef PV-0003 · Safety-critical
- Carbon Steel Pipe (A53, A106, API 5L)Differences between common carbon steel pipe specificationsRef PV-0005
- Stainless Steel Pipe (A312, 304/316, L Grades)Stainless grades, schedules 5S/10S/40S and welded vs seamlessRef PV-0006
- Copper Tube Types K, L, M and DWVCopper water tube types, color markings and usesRef PV-0007
- PVC and CPVC PipeSchedule and SDR plastic pipe, solvent cement joints and temperature limitsRef PV-0008
- PEX Tubing (PEX-A, B, C)Cross-linking methods, fitting systems and ratingsRef PV-0009
- HDPE Pipe and SDRDimension ratios, IPS vs DIPS sizing and fusion joiningRef PV-0010
- Ductile Iron Pipe and FittingsPressure classes, joints and linings for water serviceRef PV-0011
- Cast Iron Soil Pipe (No-Hub and Hub-and-Spigot)Soil pipe types and coupling systemsRef PV-0012
- ABS and PVC DWV PipeDrain-waste-vent plastic pipe and fittingsRef PV-0013
- Galvanized Pipe and FittingsGalvanized steel pipe and where it is still usedRef PV-0014
- Malleable and Cast Iron Threaded FittingsClass 150 and 300 malleable fittings and cast iron fittingsRef PV-0015
- Butt-Weld FittingsElbows, tees, reducers and caps for welded systemsRef PV-0017
- Flange Types (Weld Neck, Slip-On, Blind, Socket, Lap Joint, Threaded)Flange styles and where each is usedRef PV-0018
- Flange Facings (RF, FF, RTJ)Raised face, flat face and ring-type joint facings and finishesRef PV-0019
- Copper and Bronze Fittings (Wrought and Cast)Solder-joint fittings and their markingsRef PV-0022
- Push-to-Connect FittingsPush-fit fittings for copper, PEX and CPVCRef PV-0024
- Grooved Couplings and FittingsRigid and flexible couplings, roll vs cut groovesRef PV-0025
- Pipe Schedule & Dimension Chart (NPS 1/8 to 12)OD and nominal wall by schedule for common sizesRef PV-0049
- NPS to DN Conversion ChartNominal pipe size and metric DN equivalentsRef PV-0050
- NPT Thread Chart (TPI and Taper)Threads per inch by size and taper basicsRef PV-0051
- Copper Tube Type Color Code ChartMarking colors for K, L, M and DWV tubeRef PV-0052
- Pipe Marking and Color Code ChartPiping identification colors and legend sizesRef PV-0053
- Flange Class Identification ChartHow to identify flange class from markings and geometry (no pressure values)Ref PV-0054
- Flange Bolt Pattern Lookup GuideHow to find bolt count, bolt size and bolt circle for a flangeRef PV-0055
- Isometric Drawing Symbols ChartCommon fitting and valve symbols on piping isometricsRef PV-0056
- Valve and Instrument Symbols ChartP&ID symbols for valves and actuatorsRef PV-0057
- Spiral-Wound Gasket Color Code ChartRing and winding color identificationRef PV-0058
- Fitting and Flange Marking ChartWhat the stamped markings on fittings and flanges meanRef PV-0059
- Pipe Weight and Volume BasicsHow to estimate pipe weight and contained volumeRef PV-0061
- Solvent Cement and Primer Selection ChartMatching cement to PVC, CPVC and ABSRef PV-0062
- Pressure and Head Conversion Chartpsi, bar, kPa and feet of waterRef PV-0064
- How to Identify Pipe Thread TypesTelling NPT, NPTF, NPS, BSPT and BSPP apart with gauges and countsRef PV-0065
Technical Reference
Pipe, valves, fittings, flanges, gaskets and plumbing products, with the standards that govern them.
- Master Guide to Pipe Sizes, Schedules & Wall ThicknessHow NPS, outside diameter and schedule relate, with dimensions for common sizesRef PV-0001
- Valve Types ExplainedGate, globe, ball, butterfly, check, plug, needle and diaphragm valves and what each is forRef PV-0002
- Pressure Class & Flange Ratings ExplainedWhat ASME flange classes mean, why rated pressure depends on material and temperature, and where to look it upRef PV-0003 · Safety-critical
- Pipe Pressure Ratings: How to Find the Right ValueWhy pipe pressure depends on material, wall, temperature, joint and code, and which documents governComing soon
- Carbon Steel Pipe (A53, A106, API 5L)Differences between common carbon steel pipe specificationsRef PV-0005
- Stainless Steel Pipe (A312, 304/316, L Grades)Stainless grades, schedules 5S/10S/40S and welded vs seamlessRef PV-0006
- Copper Tube Types K, L, M and DWVCopper water tube types, color markings and usesRef PV-0007
- PVC and CPVC PipeSchedule and SDR plastic pipe, solvent cement joints and temperature limitsRef PV-0008
- PEX Tubing (PEX-A, B, C)Cross-linking methods, fitting systems and ratingsRef PV-0009
- HDPE Pipe and SDRDimension ratios, IPS vs DIPS sizing and fusion joiningRef PV-0010
- Ductile Iron Pipe and FittingsPressure classes, joints and linings for water serviceRef PV-0011
- Cast Iron Soil Pipe (No-Hub and Hub-and-Spigot)Soil pipe types and coupling systemsRef PV-0012
- ABS and PVC DWV PipeDrain-waste-vent plastic pipe and fittingsRef PV-0013
- Galvanized Pipe and FittingsGalvanized steel pipe and where it is still usedRef PV-0014
- Malleable and Cast Iron Threaded FittingsClass 150 and 300 malleable fittings and cast iron fittingsRef PV-0015
- Forged Steel Fittings (Socket Weld and Threaded)Class 2000/3000/6000/9000 forged fittingsComing soon
- Butt-Weld FittingsElbows, tees, reducers and caps for welded systemsRef PV-0017
- Flange Types (Weld Neck, Slip-On, Blind, Socket, Lap Joint, Threaded)Flange styles and where each is usedRef PV-0018
- Flange Facings (RF, FF, RTJ)Raised face, flat face and ring-type joint facings and finishesRef PV-0019
- Gaskets (Sheet, Spiral-Wound, Ring Joint)Gasket types and how they match flange facingsComing soon
- Flange Bolting (Stud Bolts and Heavy Hex Nuts)Common bolting grades for flangesComing soon
- Copper and Bronze Fittings (Wrought and Cast)Solder-joint fittings and their markingsRef PV-0022
- Press-Connect Fittings (Copper and Steel)Press systems, sealing elements and tool compatibilityComing soon
- Push-to-Connect FittingsPush-fit fittings for copper, PEX and CPVCRef PV-0024
- Grooved Couplings and FittingsRigid and flexible couplings, roll vs cut groovesRef PV-0025
- Unions, Couplings, Nipples and BushingsCommon threaded joining componentsComing soon
- Dielectric Unions and Isolation FittingsIsolating dissimilar metalsComing soon
- Gate ValvesWedge types, rising vs non-rising stem and usesComing soon
- Ball Valves (Floating, Trunnion, Full and Standard Port)Ball valve constructions and port sizesComing soon
- Butterfly ValvesWafer, lug, double-offset and triple-offset designsComing soon
- Globe ValvesThrottling service and disc typesComing soon
- Check Valves (Swing, Lift, Wafer, Spring)Check valve types and orientation limitsComing soon
- Plug ValvesLubricated, non-lubricated and eccentric plug valvesComing soon
- Pressure Relief and Safety ValvesRelief vs safety valves, set pressure and capacity markingComing soon
- Backflow Preventers (RP, DC, PVB, AVB)Backflow assembly types and the hazards each coversComing soon
- Pressure-Reducing ValvesWater PRVs and where they are requiredComing soon
- Thermostatic Mixing and Tempering ValvesScald protection devices and their standardsComing soon
- Valve Actuators (Manual, Pneumatic, Electric)Actuator types and mounting interfacesComing soon
- Strainers (Y-Type and Basket)Strainer types, mesh and perforationComing soon
- Steam TrapsMechanical, thermostatic and thermodynamic trapsComing soon
- Pipe Hangers and SupportsHanger types and support spacing referencesComing soon
- Water Heater Relief Valves (T&P)Temperature-and-pressure relief valves and installation basicsComing soon
- Plumbing Fixtures and CarriersFixture standards and carrier typesComing soon
- Drains, Cleanouts and TrapsFloor drains, cleanouts and trap typesComing soon
- Lead-Free Requirements for Potable WaterFederal lead-free definition and certificationComing soon
- Fuel Gas Piping Materials and FittingsSteel, CSST, PE and copper for gasComing soon
- Fire Sprinkler Pipe, Fittings and ValvesListed products for sprinkler systemsComing soon
- Valve Trim Numbers and Material CodesHow API trim numbers describe seat and stem materialsComing soon
Wall Charts
Printable one-page charts for the counter, warehouse and shop.
- Pipe Schedule & Dimension Chart (NPS 1/8 to 12)OD and nominal wall by schedule for common sizesRef PV-0049
- NPS to DN Conversion ChartNominal pipe size and metric DN equivalentsRef PV-0050
- NPT Thread Chart (TPI and Taper)Threads per inch by size and taper basicsRef PV-0051
- Copper Tube Type Color Code ChartMarking colors for K, L, M and DWV tubeRef PV-0052
- Pipe Marking and Color Code ChartPiping identification colors and legend sizesRef PV-0053
- Flange Class Identification ChartHow to identify flange class from markings and geometry (no pressure values)Ref PV-0054
- Flange Bolt Pattern Lookup GuideHow to find bolt count, bolt size and bolt circle for a flangeRef PV-0055
- Isometric Drawing Symbols ChartCommon fitting and valve symbols on piping isometricsRef PV-0056
- Valve and Instrument Symbols ChartP&ID symbols for valves and actuatorsRef PV-0057
- Spiral-Wound Gasket Color Code ChartRing and winding color identificationRef PV-0058
- Fitting and Flange Marking ChartWhat the stamped markings on fittings and flanges meanRef PV-0059
- Stud Bolt Length Lookup GuideHow stud length is determined for flanged jointsComing soon
- Pipe Weight and Volume BasicsHow to estimate pipe weight and contained volumeRef PV-0061
- Solvent Cement and Primer Selection ChartMatching cement to PVC, CPVC and ABSRef PV-0062
- Backflow Assembly Selection ChartMatching assembly type to hazard and installationComing soon
- Pressure and Head Conversion Chartpsi, bar, kPa and feet of waterRef PV-0064
Measure & Identify
How to identify, measure and match pipe, valves and fittings.
- How to Identify Pipe Thread TypesTelling NPT, NPTF, NPS, BSPT and BSPP apart with gauges and countsRef PV-0065
- How to Measure Pipe Size (NPS vs Actual OD)Why a 1-inch pipe is not 1 inch and how to confirm sizeComing soon
- How to Tell Copper Tube from Copper Pipe and ACRNominal vs actual OD and markingsComing soon
- How to Identify Pipe Material in the FieldMagnet, color, markings and spark checksComing soon
- How to Read Pipe Markings and Heat NumbersDecoding mill stencilsComing soon
- How to Read Fitting MarkingsDecoding manufacturer, material, class and size stampsComing soon
- How to Identify Flange Type and ClassUsing markings, hub shape, thickness and bolt patternComing soon
- How to Measure a FlangeMeasuring OD, bolt circle, bolt holes and facingComing soon
- How to Identify Valve Type and End ConnectionsThreaded, socket, flanged, grooved, press and solder endsComing soon
- How to Read a Valve Nameplate and Body MarkingsPressure rating, material, trim and flow arrowComing soon
- How to Identify Gasket TypesRecognizing sheet, spiral-wound, RTJ and isolation gasketsComing soon
- How to Identify PEX Type from the Print LineReading PEX markingsComing soon
- How to Read Plastic Pipe Print LinesMaterial code, schedule/SDR and listingsComing soon
- How to Tell Cast Iron Soil Pipe from Ductile IronMarkings, wall and jointsComing soon
- How to Identify a Backflow Assembly TypeReading the body and test-cock layoutComing soon
- How to Identify Faucet and Valve CartridgesMatching cartridges by brand, spline and lengthComing soon
- How to Identify Toilet Fill Valves and FlappersMatching flush valve size and fill valve typeComing soon
- How to Identify Compression vs Flare FittingsSleeve vs flare joints in plumbing and gasComing soon
- How to Identify Roll vs Cut GroovesRecognizing groove types for couplingsComing soon
- How to Measure Pipe Wall Thickness (Ultrasonic)Using a UT gauge correctlyComing soon
- How to Identify Stainless Grade in the FieldMarkings and PMI options for 304 vs 316Coming soon
- How to Identify Gas Valves and Appliance ConnectorsRecognizing listed gas valves and connectorsComing soon
- How to Identify Lead-Free Marked ProductsRecognizing lead-free certification marksComing soon
- How to Identify Water Meter and Coupling SizesMeter sizes, spud threads and couplingsComing soon
Materials, Coatings & Linings
Pipe, valve and seal materials, coatings, linings and insulation.
- Material Selection Basics (Carbon, Alloy, Stainless)How service conditions drive material choiceComing soon
- Hot-Dip Galvanizing for Pipe and FittingsWhat galvanizing protects and where it failsComing soon
- Black, Bare and Painted Pipe FinishesMill finishes and temporary coatingsComing soon
- Epoxy and Fusion-Bonded Epoxy CoatingsInternal and external epoxy systemsComing soon
- Cement-Mortar Lining for Ductile IronPurpose and handling of mortar liningsComing soon
- Polyethylene Encasement for Ductile IronLoose PE wrap for corrosion protectionComing soon
- Plastic-Lined Pipe (PTFE, PP, PVDF)Lined steel pipe for corrosive serviceComing soon
- Brass, Bronze and DezincificationBrass vs bronze and dezincification-resistant alloysComing soon
- Elastomer Seal Materials (EPDM, NBR, FKM, PTFE)Matching seal materials to fluidsComing soon
- Valve Seat Materials and Temperature LimitsSoft vs metal seats and why limits matterComing soon
- Sour Service Materials (NACE)Materials for H2S environmentsComing soon
- Low-Temperature and Impact-Tested MaterialsMaterials for cold serviceComing soon
- High-Temperature Alloy Pipe (P11, P22, P91)Chrome-moly alloys for steam and heatComing soon
- Duplex and Super Duplex StainlessProperties and usesComing soon
- Plastic Pipe Chemical ResistanceHow to use chemical resistance dataComing soon
- Pipe Insulation Types and JacketingFiberglass, elastomeric, calcium silicate and jacketsComing soon
- Electric Heat Tracing BasicsSelf-regulating and constant-wattage tracingComing soon
- Cathodic Protection BasicsSacrificial and impressed-current protectionComing soon
Engineering & Failure Analysis
How piping systems fail and the engineering behind common field problems.
- Water Hammer: Causes and PreventionSurge pressures and arrestorsComing soon
- Thermal Expansion of PipingExpansion loops, joints and anchorsComing soon
- Galvanic Corrosion and Dissimilar MetalsWhy mixed metals corrodeComing soon
- Erosion-Corrosion in Copper SystemsVelocity-related pitting and wearComing soon
- Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC)Bacteria-driven corrosion in fire and water systemsComing soon
- Freeze DamageHow pipes fail in freezing conditionsComing soon
- Flange Leaks and Bolt-Up PracticeCauses of flange leaks and assembly guidanceComing soon
- Threaded Joint Leaks and SealantsThread sealant selection and over-tighteningComing soon
- Solvent Weld Failures (PVC/CPVC)Joint preparation and cure problemsComing soon
- Solder and Brazed Joint FailuresFlux, heat and fill problemsComing soon
- Valve Failure ModesSeat, stem and packing leakageComing soon
- Valve Seat Leakage ClassesHow valve leakage is classified and testedComing soon
- Pressure Testing (Hydrostatic vs Pneumatic)Test types and why pneumatic tests are more hazardousComing soon
- Cavitation and Flashing in ValvesRecognition and preventionComing soon
- Fluid Velocity and Pipe Sizing BasicsWhy velocity limits existComing soon
- Stress Corrosion Cracking in StainlessChloride SCC causes and preventionComing soon
- CPVC Chemical Compatibility FailuresIncompatible firestop, oils and sealantsComing soon
- PEX Failure Causes (UV, Chlorine, Fittings)Common PEX failure modesComing soon
Specification & Engineering Control
Writing and controlling PVF specifications, line classes and approvals.
- Writing a Clear Pipe and Fitting Spec LineElements of a complete PVF descriptionComing soon
- Piping Codes: B31.1 vs B31.3 vs B31.9Which code covers which systemsComing soon
- Plumbing Codes: IPC vs UPCHow model plumbing codes differComing soon
- Valve Data Sheets and SpecificationsReading and writing valve data sheetsComing soon
- Pipe Line Class SheetsWhat a piping class sheet controlsComing soon
- CSI Divisions 22 and 23 Piping SpecsHow plumbing and HVAC piping sections are organizedComing soon
- Approved Manufacturer Lists and SubstitutionsManaging AML and substitution requestsComing soon
- Domestic Content Rules (BABA and AIS)Domestic iron and steel requirements on funded projectsComing soon
- Potable Water Certification (NSF 61 and 372)Certification requirements for drinking waterComing soon
- Fire Protection Listings (UL and FM)Listing and approval requirements for sprinkler productsComing soon
- Fuel Gas Piping Specification ChecklistInformation needed before quoting gas pipingComing soon
- Pressure-Temperature Ratings: Where They LiveWhich standard holds the P-T table for each productComing soon
- Positive Material Identification (PMI) RequirementsWhen PMI is specified and what it coversComing soon
- Welding Procedure and Welder Qualification BasicsWPS, PQR and welder qualification explainedComing soon
Procurement & Cost Reduction
Buying, pricing and cost-reduction topics for PVF distribution.
- Steel Price Indices and Escalation ClausesManaging steel price swings on quotesComing soon
- Domestic vs Import Pipe Pricing and TariffsHow trade actions affect pipe pricingComing soon
- Mill Lengths, Random Lengths and Cut PiecesPricing and stocking by lengthComing soon
- Quoting Valve Automation PackagesActuated valve package basicsComing soon
- Consolidating Valve BrandsReducing SKUs while meeting specsComing soon
- Freight and Handling for PipeBundles, flatbeds and handling costComing soon
- Lead Times on Forged and Alloy FittingsPlanning long-lead itemsComing soon
- Bid Packages and Takeoffs for Mechanical ContractorsPricing takeoffs accuratelyComing soon
- Supplier Approval for Imported FittingsQualifying import sourcesComing soon
- Total Installed Cost: Press vs Solder vs ThreadedComparing labor and material costComing soon
Quality, Compliance & Traceability
Mill test reports, material traceability and product compliance for PVF.
- Mill Test Reports (MTRs) ExplainedWhat an MTR shows and how to check itComing soon
- EN 10204 Certificate Types (2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 3.2)Inspection document typesComing soon
- Heat Number TraceabilityKeeping heat numbers tied to stock and shipmentsComing soon
- Counterfeit and Mismarked Valves and FittingsWarning signs and responseComing soon
- PMI at ReceivingVerifying alloy at receiptComing soon
- Lead-Free Compliance DocumentationPaperwork for potable water productsComing soon
- Country of Origin and Specialty Metals ClausesOrigin marking and DFARS requirementsComing soon
- Receiving Inspection for PVFWhat to check at the dockComing soon
- Listing Verification (NSF, UL, FM)Checking certification directoriesComing soon
- Quarantine and Nonconformance HandlingControlling suspect materialComing soon
Inventory, VMI & Automation
Stocking, vendor-managed inventory and automation for PVF.
- Pipe Rack Storage and HandlingSafe storage of pipe and bundlesComing soon
- Stainless and Carbon SegregationPreventing contamination of stainless stockComing soon
- Stocking Fittings by Material and ClassOrganizing fitting inventoryComing soon
- Valve Inventory and Soft-Goods AgingManaging valves with elastomer seatsComing soon
- Gasket and Elastomer Shelf LifeStorage life for seals and gasketsComing soon
- Jobsite Containers and VMI for Mechanical ContractorsManaging jobsite inventoryComing soon
- Bin Labeling for FittingsSize, material and class on labelsComing soon
- Plumbing Counter Min/MaxStocking a plumbing counterComing soon
- Slow-Moving Alloy StockManaging dead alloy inventoryComing soon
- Cycle Counting Pipe by Length and WeightAccurate counts for pipeComing soon
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