A document that provides guidelines for selecting appropriate pipe diameters for chilled water systems, typically in a portable document format (PDF). These charts correlate flow rate requirements with pipe dimensions to ensure efficient and effective cooling performance. For example, a chart might indicate that a flow rate of 100 gallons per minute (GPM) requires a 4-inch diameter pipe to maintain a desired velocity and minimize pressure drop.
Accurate pipe sizing is critical for the optimal operation of chilled water systems. Under-sized pipes can lead to increased friction losses, resulting in reduced cooling capacity and increased energy consumption. Conversely, over-sized pipes can lead to higher material costs and may promote laminar flow, which reduces heat transfer efficiency. The use of such sizing guides allows engineers and technicians to make informed decisions, optimizing system performance and minimizing lifecycle costs. Historically, these calculations were performed manually using complex formulas, but readily available charts and software tools have simplified the process, promoting greater accuracy and efficiency.
