Formula used
Three approaches are available. Inputs are adjusted by joint efficiency, temperature factor, and safety factor.
Where teff = t − corrosion allowance. Select Thick-wall when the wall is relatively thick.
How to use this calculator
- Select a method and unit system.
- Enter geometry and stress/rating values.
- Set joint efficiency, temperature factor, and safety factor.
- Press Calculate to view results above.
- Use CSV or PDF buttons for documentation.
Tip: If t/Do is above 0.10, Thick-wall is usually more suitable.
Example data table
Use these sample rows to sanity-check your inputs and outputs.
| Case | Method | Do | t | Allowable / HDS | E | Td | SF | Output (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thin-wall | 200 mm | 10 mm | 140 MPa | 1.00 | 1.00 | 2.0 | ~70.0 bar |
| 2 | Thick-wall | 114.3 mm | 12 mm | 160 MPa | 0.85 | 0.90 | 2.5 | ~23–28 bar |
| 3 | SDR | — | — | HDS 8.0 MPa, SDR 11 | 1.00 | 1.00 | 2.0 | ~8.0 bar |
Example outputs are rounded and depend on unit selection and corrosion allowance.
Design purpose and scope
Use this calculator to estimate bursting pressure for pressurized pipe runs in construction water, air, and slurry services. It compares thin-wall, thick-wall, and SDR approaches so engineers can match geometry and material behavior. Results support preliminary sizing, specification checks, and quick what‑if studies during planning and site coordination. Choose output units that match site gauges, and document assumptions for quick peer review and change control during construction.
Required field measurements
Accurate outside diameter and wall thickness drive reliability. Measure diameter at several circumferential points and average for ovality. Enter corrosion allowance when inspection reports show metal loss or when long‑term exposure is expected. For plastic piping, select SDR and provide design stress (HDS) from the manufacturer’s rating at your reference temperature.
Interpreting bursting pressure results
The displayed value represents an estimated pressure limit after applying efficiency, temperature, and safety factors. Compare it to your maximum operating pressure plus surges. A common surge allowance is 10–30% depending on pump starts, valve closures, and trapped air. If operating pressure approaches 60–80% of the calculated limit, consider thicker wall, lower SDR, or material upgrades. For commissioning, compare with planned test pressure; many specifications set hydrotests at 1.25 to 1.5 times design pressure.
Derating and safety adjustments
Joint efficiency accounts for weld quality, inspection level, and connection type. Temperature factor reflects reduced strength at elevated service temperatures. Safety factor addresses uncertainties from workmanship, cyclic loading, and degradation. Typical design safety factors range from 1.5 to 3.0, while temporary testing may justify different margins. Keep inputs consistent with project specifications and applicable codes. Use conservative inputs when data quality is low or installation uncertain today.
Documentation and quality checks
After calculation, export CSV for logs and peer review, or PDF for submittals. Record method selection, units, and assumptions alongside material grade, schedule/SDR, and inspection findings. If the wall ratio t/Do exceeds 0.10, thick-wall theory is usually more appropriate. Always verify final design against governing standards and manufacturer data sheets before procurement.
FAQs
1) Which method should I choose?
Use Thin-wall for relatively thin pipes and quick checks. Use Thick-wall when t/Do is above about 0.10 or when accuracy near yield matters. Use SDR for plastic pressure ratings based on design stress and SDR class.
2) What corrosion allowance should I enter?
Enter measured or specified metal loss reserved for the design life. If you have inspection data, use the worst credible remaining thickness margin. If the system is new and non-corrosive, set corrosion allowance to zero.
3) Why does joint efficiency affect bursting pressure?
Joint efficiency represents the strength of welds or connections compared with base material. Lower efficiency reduces allowable pressure to reflect inspection level, workmanship, and connection geometry. Use values aligned with your project specification or applicable standard.
4) How should I apply the safety factor?
Safety factor divides the calculated limit to manage uncertainty from loads, cyclic service, defects, and data quality. Typical design ranges are 1.5–3.0. Use higher values for higher consequences, limited inspection, or uncertain installation conditions.
5) Can I use it for plastic pipes?
Yes. Choose the SDR method and enter SDR plus the design stress (HDS) from the pipe manufacturer’s rating table. Apply temperature factor if the service temperature differs from the reference rating, and include safety factor per your design basis.
6) Does the calculator replace code compliance checks?
No. It provides an estimate for comparison and documentation. Final design must comply with governing codes, material specifications, surge analysis, and testing requirements. Always confirm allowable stress or HDS from authoritative sources before issuing procurement or construction documents.