A device or tool used to determine the appropriate diameter of piping required for the safe and efficient delivery of natural gas or propane to appliances within a building or structure, considering factors such as gas type, appliance demand, pipe length, and allowable pressure drop. For example, if a building requires a specific volume of natural gas to fuel a furnace, water heater, and stove, this device facilitates the calculation of the necessary pipe size to ensure adequate supply and avoid performance issues.
Accurate determination of pipe dimensions is crucial for safety, preventing gas leaks and ensuring appliances function correctly. Insufficient pipe size can lead to inadequate fuel supply, causing appliances to malfunction or operate inefficiently. Conversely, excessively large pipes can be unnecessarily costly. Historically, these calculations were performed manually using complex formulas and charts; however, contemporary tools streamline the process, reducing the potential for errors and saving time for engineers, plumbers, and HVAC technicians.