Hydronic pipe sizing & properties. Pick a pipe type, size and fluid; results update automatically — pipe dimensions, velocity, Reynolds number, friction factor, head loss, elbow loss, and pipe + fluid weight.
This chilled water pipe calculator helps HVAC engineers and draftsmen quickly check pipe size, velocity, Reynolds number, Darcy friction factor, head loss, elbow loss, and pipe + fluid weight for Schedule 40 steel using 50°F water. Results update instantly as you change pipe size or flow.
Choose from Schedule 5/10/40/80 steel, Sch 40/80 ABS & PVC plastic, and Type K/L/M copper. Fluids include water at several temperatures plus ethylene and propylene glycol mixes, so you can size hydronic, chilled-water and glycol systems with the same tool.
| Check | Typical range | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Velocity | 4–8 ft/s (≈1.2–2.4 m/s) | Controls noise, erosion, and balancing stability |
| Head loss | 2–6 ft/100 ft (≈2–6 m/100 m) | Trade-off between pipe size and pump energy |
| Max velocity | ~10 ft/s (≈3.0 m/s) | Keep below to avoid noise/erosion at peak flow |
This calculator provides engineering estimates. Always verify final sizing using project specifications, total equivalent length, fittings count, and commissioning/balancing requirements.