What does the term "standard wall" refer to in pipe specifications?

The term "standard wall" in pipe specifications specifically refers to a standardized thickness of the pipe, which is crucial for ensuring that the pipe meets certain performance and safety standards. The standardized thickness is defined by various industry standards, such as ASTM or ANSI, which dictate the wall thickness corresponding to specific nominal pipe sizes. This ensures that the pipes are manufactured consistently and can withstand the pressures and stresses they will encounter in service without being excessively heavy or costly.

Understanding standardized wall thickness is essential for steamfitters, as using pipes with the correct wall thickness is important for both safety and efficiency in installations. Standard wall pipes strike a balance between strength and weight, making them commonly used in various applications.