4653 (RP-1193) -- Pressure Loss Data for PVC Pipe Elbows, Reducers, and Expansions PDF

Pressure loss coefficients (K) were determined for only Schedule 80 PVC 90 degree elbows, reducers, and expansions. Injection molded PVC elbows were tested in the sizes of 2, 4, 6, and 8 in. (5.08, 10.16, 15.25, and 20.32 cm). Additional fabricated PVC elbows were tested in the 8 in. size (20.32 cm). Injection-molded PVC reducers and expansions were tested in the sizes of 6 by 4 in. (15.25 by 10.16 cm) and 8 by 6 in. (20.32 by 15.25 cm). The PVC reducers and expansions were both injection molded fittings and fittings fabricated from PVC bushing reducers and expansions. A total of 170 individual elbow, reducer, and expansion fittings from seven different vendors or manufacturers were tested in the ASHRAE project to determine pressure loss coefficients (K) of PVC fittings. The total number of individual test runs conducted for this study was 1,800, which were made in 13 different test setups. The scatter or variation in loss coefficients (K) between the different designs of the vendors was also evaluated in this study. Each test fitting was examined at a specified range of pipe velocities to determine the mean and variation of loss coefficients (K). All of the tests were performed with Schedule 80 PVC pipe and PVC fittings.

Units: Dual