Pipe Temperature Expansion

The Pipe Temperature Expansion estimates the expansion of pipes or tube when they are heated. 

INSTRUCTIONS: Choose units and enter the following:

• (L) Length of Pipe
• (T) Temperature Change
• (α) Linear Expansion Coefficient in units of 1E-6/^oK   (default: Copper)

Pipes and Tubes Temperature Expansion (dl):  The calculator returns the answer in inches or mils. However, either can be automatically converted to compatible units via the pull-down menu.

The Math / Science

The temperature expansion of pipes or tubes depends on the initial and final temperatures and the expansion coefficient for the material at actual temperature. The general expansion formula can be expressed as:

dl = α ⋅ L  ⋅ T

where

• dl = expansion or contraction (m, inches)
• L = length of pipe (m, inches)
• T = temperature difference (°C, °F)
• α = linear expansion coefficient (m/m°K, in/in°F)

Find Temperature Coefficients of Expansion:

• Temperature Coefficient of Expansion Lookup

Reference

Pipes and Tubes - Temperature Expansion (https://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/thermal-expansion-pipes-d_283.html)