PipeSageWhen to use this calculator
Working backward from a target velocity is the standard way to size a pipe: too small a diameter drives velocity up, increasing friction losses and erosion risk; too large wastes material cost. Typical design velocities: 1–2 m/s for gravity/suction lines, 2–3 m/s for pump discharge lines, up to 4–6 m/s for short runs where cost matters more than losses. Round up to the nearest standard commercial pipe size once you have this minimum diameter.