New pipe design calculator for plumbing and heating systems now available online

IRVING, TX  - The Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc. (PPI) today announced it has released a new, free, online software tool that aids in designing plastic pressure pipe systems using PEX, PE-RT and CPVC.  The PPI Plastic Pressure Pipe Design Calculator was developed by the association's Building and Construction Division (BCD), and is available at www.plasticpipe.org/building-construction/bc-pipe-calculator.html.  PPI is the major trade association representing all segments of the plastic pipe industry.

"This new program takes into consideration the specific materials and different calculations needed when designing a heating or plumbing system," stated Randy Knapp, director of engineering, BCD.  "Our members collaborated to provide this universal calculator tool by reviewing formulas and manufacturers’ proprietary calculation systems, filtering and evaluating the most relevant details to assemble and supply one cohesive, easy-to-use tool."

Constructed by Avenir, a well-known developer of software design tools for the HVAC and plumbing industry, the Plastic Pressure Pipe Design Calculator has separate sections to calculate Pressure/Head Loss, Hydraulic Shock, Pipe Weight/Volume, Thermal Expansion and Expansion Arm/Loop. 

"The calculator follows ASTM International and CSA Group (formerly Canadian Standards Association) industry standards for these three most commonly used plumbing and heating pipe materials," Knapp said, "and provides for a selection of working units, either IP/US or Metric/SI, and for the percentage of water, propylene glycol or ethylene glycol.  It also allows the calculation results to be printed or emailed."

For more information, visit the Plastics Pipe Institute website:  www.plasticpipe.org.