Testing small diameter plumbing piping

[Sahkah]

Hello, would like to ask what would be the best test to evaluate pipe thickness and conditions for small diameter plumbing piping, i.e. 1.25" and smaller? I know that ultrasonic testing is usually used but read that it might not be reliable for small pipe sizes? Can you please advise? Thanks!

 

[EdStainless]

I have used UT (both inline and handheld) on 0.250" x 0.020" wall.
It requires the correct transducers and for handheld units the right size and shape of delay block.
And you always field verify against a known piece of pipe.
Ask your LVL III UT person, they should know how this is done.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
P.E. Metallurgy, consulting work welcomed

 

[r6155]

Use a Vernier caliper.
Regards

 

[LittleInch]

Pressure test it to 2 x MOP. If it bursts somewhere then replace it.

Or just replace it all - cheaper than spending money to test it then find you need to replace it anyway.

Why do you think it might be corroded?

What material are we talking about here?

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.

 

[Sahkah]

Thank you all for your responses!
The pipe material is copper, it is 45 yrs old and leaking at different locations. No definite reason behind the leaking except aging.

 

[LittleInch]

If its 45 years old, you'll probably get more money for scrap and replace it with something else and still have spare cash....

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.