Pipe Thickness Based on Schedule (SCH) 2026
Pipe wall thickness for stainless steel pipes is defined using the international Schedule (SCH) system, including SCH10, SCH40, SCH80, and SCH160. These classifications determine the pipe’s ability to withstand pressure, temperature, and operational conditions. For 2026 industrial projects, understanding pipe schedules is essential for procurement, purchasing, piping engineers, and contractors to ensure compliance with ASTM and ASME standards.
“Pipe Schedule (SCH) is not just a thickness value — it is a technical parameter that determines a pipe’s pressure integrity and operational safety.”
PT Almas Global Mandiri
What Is Pipe Schedule (SCH)?
The Schedule (SCH) code indicates the wall thickness of a pipe. Higher schedule numbers mean thicker walls. The system follows ASME B36.10 and ASME B36.19 for stainless steel and carbon steel pipes.
- SCH10: thin wall (low pressure)
- SCH40: standard wall (most commonly used)
- SCH80: thick wall (medium–high pressure)
- SCH160: extra thick (extreme pressure)
Relationship Between OD, ID, and Wall Thickness (WT)
The outside diameter (OD) of a pipe remains constant based on the NPS (Nominal Pipe Size), while the wall thickness and inside diameter (ID) vary depending on the schedule.
WT = (OD – ID) / 2
Example for a 2” stainless steel pipe with OD 60.3 mm:
- SCH40 → WT = 3.91 mm
- SCH80 → WT = 5.54 mm
- SCH160 → WT = 8.74 mm
Pipe Thickness Table Based on Schedule (SCH) 2026
Below is a reference thickness table from ASME B36.19M for stainless steel pipes:
| NPS | OD (mm) | SCH10 | SCH40 | SCH80 | SCH160 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1" | 33.4 | 2.77 | 3.38 | 4.55 | 6.35 |
| 1½" | 48.3 | 2.77 | 3.68 | 5.08 | 7.14 |
| 2" | 60.3 | 2.77 | 3.91 | 5.54 | 8.74 |
| 3" | 88.9 | 3.05 | 5.49 | 7.62 | 11.13 |
| 4" | 114.3 | 3.05 | 6.02 | 8.56 | 13.49 |
| 6" | 168.3 | 3.05 | 7.11 | 10.97 | 17.48 |
Differences Between SCH10, SCH40, SCH80, and SCH160
1. SCH10 – Thin Wall
Suitable for low-pressure applications such as clean water, F&B sanitary lines, and utilities.
2. SCH40 – Standard Wall
The most widely used schedule in industrial, construction, and manufacturing systems.
3. SCH80 – Thick Wall
Used for medium–high pressure applications such as steam, oil, and chemical processing.
4. SCH160 – Extra Heavy
Designed for extreme pressure applications such as boilers, refineries, and high-pressure gas lines.
How to Select the Right Schedule for 2026 Projects
- Define operating pressure (bar/psi) — higher pressure requires higher SCH.
- Determine operating temperature — high temperature reduces allowable stress.
- Identify the type of fluid — gas & chemicals often require SCH40/SCH80.
- Refer to ASME B31.3 / B31.1 piping codes.
- Match SCH with project budget — SCH40 is cost-effective; SCH80/160 for high risk systems.
Recommended SCH for Various Industries (2026)
- Food & Beverage: SCH10 – hygienic and easy to clean
- Construction & Manufacturing: SCH40 – reliable and efficient
- Chemical Plants: SCH40–SCH80 depending on fluid aggressiveness
- Oil & Gas: SCH80 for high pressure
- Boiler & Marine: SCH160 for extreme pressure & temperature
FAQ
What is the main difference between SCH40 and SCH80?
SCH80 has a thicker wall than SCH40, allowing it to withstand higher pressure.
Does SCH determine the material grade?
No. SCH only defines wall thickness. Material grade (SS304, SS316L, Duplex) is selected based on corrosion and environment.
Is SCH10 safe for pressure applications?
It is safe for low-pressure systems but not recommended for gas or steam.
Contact PT Almas Global Mandiri
PT Almas Global Mandiri supplies stainless steel pipes in SCH10, SCH40, SCH80, and SCH160 with full ASTM–ASME certification and Material Test Certificates (MTC). Contact us for technical consultation or project quotations:
- WhatsApp: +62 812-8685-9716
- Email: davi@almasgm.com