THE BEST PRACTICE GUIDE TO:
A Graphic Products Library Resource
Pipe Marking
The information presented in this guide was obtained from sources whom we deem reliable and the best available sources; Graphic Products, Inc. has made every effort to ensure this information is correct. However, we do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. Graphic Products, Inc. makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied. Information in this guide is subject to change without notice. Except as expressly provided for in writing, the liability of Graphic Products, Inc. arising from the use of this guide is specifi cally excluded and Graphic Products, Inc. disclaims all warranties and any liability for damages of any kind and any liability whether in contract, tort under statute or otherwise for any injury, damage or loss whatsoever. No reliance should be placed on information contained or to be implied or inferred in this guide, and users of this guide should verify all information with ANSI and OSHA sources directly.
INTRODUCTION ...pg 1 An overview of the Best Practice Guide to Pipe Marking.
TOOLS ...pg 2 What labeling tools are available to effi ciently label an entire facility indoors and outdoors?
EVALUATION OF FACILITY ... pg 3 What to look for when evaluating a facility.
Evaluation Tip What to Look For Standard Abbreviations
LABEL CREATION ... pg 9 See available resources for customizing pipe markers.
Equipment and Supplies Label Creation Steps
LABEL PLACEMENT ...pg 11 Proper placement of pipe labels will increase worker safety
and improve overall workfl ow.
Removing Old Labels
LABEL MAINTENANCE ...pg 12 What may be used to clean and maintain pipe labels?
APPENDIX A - EVALUATION CHECKLIST ...pg 13 Use this checklist to help label a facility.
APPENDIX B - PIPE MARKING GUIDES ...pg14 Various industries need to comply with specifi c standards.
ANSI/ASME A13.1 - 2007 Pipe Marking Guide Ammonia Pipe Marking Guide
NFPA 99/CGA C-9 Pipe Marking Guide
ISO/DIS 14726 Sea Vessel & Marine Pipe Marking Guide Commercial Building Pipe Marking Guide
Water Treatment Pipe Marking Guide What type of supplies are available for marking
unique surfaces and environments?
10
What are the different pipe marking standards?
CONTENTS
Contents of the Best Practice Guide to Pipe Marking by Graphic Products, Inc.
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PASS
IT ON
1 The words pipe marker, pipe marking and label are used interchangeably throughout this guide.
Pipe markers play a vital role in safety. They can provide information for emergency responders and save lives of on-site workers.
INTRODUCTION
The following pages provide basic instructions for pipe label design, printing and placement. These recommended practices will help improve facility effi ciency and increase safety through visual communication.
Proper pipe marking1 plays a critical role in protecting the
safety of workers, visitors and emergency responders who must enter a facility. The following pages are designed to help your facility comply with widely accepted standards for pipe marking. Following these standards helps ensure pipe content, fl ow direction and additional pipe information are easily seen and understood by all.
Pipe marker design and color-code compliance is best achieved with the use of an industrial label printer. Pipe marking software, included with DuraLabel printers, makes it easy to accurately print for compliance using custom information. The goal is to reduce confusion, dangerous situations, injuries and even deaths.
Keep this guide handy in your facility to help you, your staff and contractors understand and print compliant pipe markers. DuraLabel printers come bundled with pipe marking software to make compliance simple. DuraLabel also offers a wide selection of industrial labeling supplies for making pipe markers, valve tags and other types of labels and signs.
DuraLabel offers over 50 application-specifi c supplies to choose from so you’ll always have the right supply for making durable labels and signs for nearly any surface or setting. Having the right supply for your specifi c application ensures long-term performance – even in the harshest industrial environments.
For further assistance please contact one of our knowledgeable customer service representatives at 800-788-5572.
2 Although other industrial quality printers may be used, the DuraLabel PRO 300 is a popular thermal transfer printer proven to make effective,
long-lasting pipe markers. The descriptions given in this guide use the DuraLabel PRO 300.
DuraLabel provides many labeling supplies and tools to properly color-code pipes within a facility.
TOOLS
Various items are needed when evaluating your facility for marking pipes appropriately. The recommended tools and equipment needed for making pipe
markers includes:
• Schematic of the facility’s pipe system
• Computer with Windows 2000 Operating System or above
◦ DuraLabel Mobile Print Station™ 150 XL or a laptop if
portability is needed
◦ Word processing software or DuraLabel DuraSuite™ software
◦ DuraLabel library of symbols, templates and examples
• DuraLabel PRO series printer2 (www.duralabel.com)
◦ DuraLabel DuraPak™ battery (optional, for portability)
◦ DuraLabel premium vinyl tapes
(tape size depends on the size of the pipe)
◦ DuraLabel premium and/or petroleum ribbon in white and black ◦ Additional supplies for special purpose applications
- Pipe Grabber™ Sleeves for putting pipe markers on dirty, oily or
rusty pipes
- Low temperature vinyl for labeling pipes in cold storage areas - Refl ective vinyl for labeling pipes that need to be seen under
low-light conditions
- Extended-Life Vinyl is ideal for outdoor labeling
• Supplies and equipment to clean and prepare pipes for labeling ◦ Putty knife, isopropyl alcohol, WD-40 or heat gun
EVALUATION OF FACILITY
Now that you have the tools needed for pipe marking, the next step is an evaluation of the pipe systems in your facility. This requires walking through the facility to visually evaluate and document each piping system. Carry a pen, a pad of paper and a camera with you. Use drawings of your facility’s piping systems to aid you in documenting any problems that are identifi ed. An easy-to-use inspection form is available in Appendix A of this guide.
Evaluate piping systems indoors and outdoors. DuraLabel provides supplies which will endure many environments.
What to Look For
When evaluating your facility, look for and pay attention to: • existing pipe markers
◦ Are they physically damaged, deteriorated, dirty, discolored or in a location or condition likely to result in future physical damage or failure?
◦ Are they accurate? (Name, fl ow direction, label color) • pipes with missing pipe markers
• new equipment
• new pipes that redirect contents to/from new equipment • areas where maintenance has been performed
• traffi c areas
Evaluation Tip
During your pipe evaluation, make sure to document all current pipe markers. Consider how existing marking could be improved to better visually communicate pipe information to workers. Defi nition of Pipe
A pipe is a conduit used to convey, distribute, mix, separate, discharge, meter, control, or snub fl uid fl ows. A pipe system includes the pipes, plus fi ttings, fl anges, valves and pipe coverings. (ASME/ANSI A13.1 (2007) standard)
Color Scheme The contents of a pipe determines the color scheme of the pipe marker. See Table 1 to ensure existing pipe markers are standard-compliant. If not, they should be replaced.
Pipe Label Size
The size of the pipe marker is also an important factor. Properly sized labels will allow personnel to read the labels at a reasonable distance. See Table 2 to ensure existing pipe markers are standard-compliant. If not, they should be replaced.
Although the ASME/ANSI standard suggests labeling all pipes, it is required for pipes to be labeled in the following situations:
• the contents of pipes could affect procedures during emergency situations
• the contents of pipes are hazardous • the fl ow direction is unknown
• the destination of the contents is unknown • the fl ow needs to be redirected for maintenance • one or more valves need to be shut off for maintenance In conducting your inspection, use a pipe schematic and piping drawings to plan your inspection. Consult your facility’s pipe schematics to ensure accurate labeling of contents and direction of fl ow.
NOTE: Pipes too small for labels should be marked with a hanging tag.
Properly identifying pipes, valves and containers will aid in safety.
TABLE
1
– Color
s
Fluid Service
Background
Color
Letter Color
Fire Quenching Fluids Red White
Toxic & Corrosive Fluids Orange Black
Flammable Fluids Yellow Black
Combustible Fluids Brown White
Potable, Cooling, Boiler Feed & Other Water Green White
Compressed Air Blue White
Use the Appendix A at the end of this guide to help determine the color, size,
and quantity of labels needed.
EVALUATION OF FACILITY
TABLE
2
– Sizes
Outside Pipe Diameter
Including Covering
Minimum Length of
Label Field Color
Minimum Height
of Letters
0.75" - 1.25" 19 - 32 mm 8" 203 mm 0.5" 13 mm 1.5" - 2" 38 - 51 mm 8" 203 mm 0.75" 19 mm 2.5" - 6" 64 - 152 mm 12" 305 mm 1.25" 32 mm 8" - 10" 203 - 254 mm 24" 610 mm 2.5" 64 mm Over 10" Over 254 mm 32" 813 mm 3.5" 89 mmUse a hanging pipe tag as pictured above for pipes which are too small.
CMPT Computed CNMT Containment COM Common COMP Component CONC Concentration COND Condenser/Condensate CONDTY Conductivity CONT Controller
CONT ROD Control Rod
CONTR Control
COR Correction
CORR Correlation
COUNT Count
CPM Counts Per Minute
CPU Central Processing Unit
CPUS Central Processing Units
CR Control Room
CRB Chemical Recovery Boiler
CROM Control Rod Drive Mechanism
CS Containment Spray
CSR Cable Spreading Room
CST Condensate Storage Tank
CW Circulating Water
CWP Circulating Water Pump
CYL Cylinder D/G Diesel Generator DEG Degrees DEMIN Demineralizer DET Detector DEV Deviation DIV Division
DO Diesel Fuel Oil
DOT Dirty Oil Tank
DSCH Discharge
DT Delta Temperature
ECCS Emergency Core Cooling System
EDT Equipment Drain Tank
EFCT Effect
EFLNT Effl uent
EHC Electro Hydraulic Control
ELEC Electrical
EQ Equipment
EQUIP Equipment
ES Extraction Steam
ABED Aux. Building Equipment Drains ABEDT Aux. Building Equipment Drain Tank ABFD Aux. Building Floor Drain
ABFDT Aux. Building Floor Drain Train ACB Air Circuit Breaker
ACK Acknowledge
ACT Actuate
ADJ Adjust
AFW Auxiliary Feedwater
ALM Alarm
AMB Ambient
ANAL Analyzer
AO(V) Air Operated (Valve)
AVG Average
BA Boric Acid
BAR Bar Graph
BAT Boric Acid Tank / Battery
BD Blow Down
BIST Bistable
BIT Boron Injection Tank
BKR Breaker
BL Black Liquid
BOP Balance of Plant
BTM Bottom
BTU British Thermal Unit
BUP Backup
C Centigrade (aka. Celsius)
C/CB Condensate/Cond. Booster
C1M Cumulative One Minute
CAB Cabinet
CAL Calibration/Calorie
CAUS Cause
CCW Component Cooling Water/Closed Cooling Water
CD Condensate
CDB Condensate Booster
CDT Chemical Drain Tank
CHAM Chamber
CHAN Channel
CHNG Change
CHRG Charging
CJB Cold Junction Box
CKT Circuit
CL Cold Leg
CLNG Cooling
Standard Abbreviations
The following table provides a list of standard abbreviations that may be used on pipe markers. Abbreviations should only be used to make the message easier to read and when it is impractical to write out the entire word or phrase.
K Kilo
LNG Long/Liquifi ed Natural Gas
LO FLW Low Flow
M/G Motor Generator Sets
MAINT Maintenance
MAX Maximum
MCR Main Control Room
MFP Main Feed Pump
MIN Minutes/Minimum
MOIST Moisture
MPH Miles Per Hour
MPS Miles Per Second
MS Main Steam/Moisture Separator
MSIV Main Steam Isolation Valve
MSR Moisture Separator Reheater
MTR Motor
MU Makeup
MVBL Moveable
NAOH Sodium Hydroxide
NAR Narrow
NAR RNG Narrow Range
NBL Noble
NEG Negative
NEUT Neutron
NIS Nuclear Instrumentation System
NR Narrow Range
NUC Nuclear
OG Off-Gas
OOS Out of Service
OP Over Pressure
OPER Operator/Operating
OT Over Temperature
OT-OP Over Temp-Over Pressure
OUT Output
OUTBD Outboard
OUTLT Outlet
OVERLD Overload
OVERTEMP Over Temperature
OVRPWR Overpower
PART Partial
PARTIC Particulate
PCT Percent
PCV Pressure Control Valve
PENET Penetration
PMG Permanent Magnet Generator
PNEU Pneumatic
PORV Power Operated Relief Valve
POS Positive
ESS Essential Service
ESF Engineered Safety Feature
EXH Exhaust/Exhauster
EXPANS Expansion
EXTR Extracted Extractor/Extraction
F Fahrenheit
FCV Flow Control Valve
FD Forced Draft FH Fuel Handling FLW Flow FO Fuel Oil FREQ Frequency FRNT Front FW Feed Water GOV Governor
GPM Gallons Per Minute
GRP Group
GSC Gland Steam Condenser
GV Governor Valve
HG(A) Mercury (absolute)
HGHT Height
HIDP High Differential Pressure
HL Hot Leg
HOV Hydraulic Operated Valve
HP High Pressure
HR(S) Hour
HRSG Heat Recovery Steam Generator
HT RT Heat Rate
HTNG Heating
HU/CD Heatup/Cooldown
HUT Hold up Tank
HYD Hydraulic
I/P Current to Pressure
I/V Current to Voltage
IA Instrument Air
ID Identifi cation/Inside Diameter
INBO Inboard
INC Increase
INF Infl uent
INIT Initial INL Inlet INSERTIN Insertion INST Instrument/Instantaneous INT Internal INTERM Intermediate IOD Iodine ISOL Isolation JUNCT Junction
EVALUATION OF FACILITY
SEC Second
SEL Select
SEP Separator
SERV Service
SFP Service Fuel Pump
SGTR Steam Generator Tube Rupture
SI Safety Injection
SPEC Specifi cation
STDY Steady STNBY Standby STOR Storage SUPPR Suppressed SUPRESS Suppression SW Service Water/Switch
SWST Secondary Water Storage Tank
T/C Thermocouples
TAMB Temperature Ambient
TAVG Average Temperature
TB Turbine Building/Terminal Box/Block
TC Cold Leg Temperature
TCV Temperature Control Valve
TD Turbine Drain
TG Turbine Generator
THER Thermal
THRT Throttle
THST Thrust
TREP Reference Temperature
TRNA Train A (B, C, etc.)
TRNSNT Transient
TRP Trip
TTD Terminal Temp. Difference
TURBS Turbines UNCONT Uncontrolled VAC Vacuum VALS Values VAP Vapor VAR Variance
VCT Volume Control Tank
VIB Vibration VNT Vent VOL Volume WR Wide Range XFR Transfer XMTR Transmitter POT Potentiometer
PPB Parts per Billion
PPM Parts per Million
PR58 Process Radiation Monitor 58
PREAMP Preamplifi ers
PRG Purge
PRI Primary
PROC Process
PRT Pressurizer Relief Tank
PS Power Supply
PSI Lbs Per Square Inch
PSIA Lbs Per Square Inch Absolute
PSIG Lbs Per Inch Gauge
PSIO Lbs Per Square Inch Differential
PT Point
PTL Pull-To-Lock
PUL Pulverizer
PW Primary Water
PWR RNG Power Range
PRV Pressure Relief Valve
PZR Pressurizer Relief Tank
RC Reactor Coolant
RCDT Reactor Coolant Drain Tank
RCFC Reactor Containment Fan Cooler
RCL Reactor Coolant Loop
RCS Reactor Coolant System
RDT Reheater Drain Tank
RECOMB Recombiner
REGEN Regenerative
REL Relative
RESID Residual
RH Residual Heat
RHR Residual Heat Removal
RHT Reheat
RLY Relay
RNG Range/Running
ROC Rate of Change
RTD Resistance Temp. Detector
RTN Return
RVLIS Reactor Vessel Level Indication System
RW Radwaste
RWST Refueling Water Storage Tank
S/G Steam Generator
SA Service Air
SB Service Building
Standard Abbreviations (cont.)
LABEL CREATION
Need pipe markers? Evaluate what your facility’s needs are fi rst. If your facility is medium-to-large in size, it may be more cost-effective and effi cient to have an industrial label printer in-house. Pipe markers, and many other industrial labels, can be custom designed and easily printed on demand when employees have access to the right printer and supplies in their work area.
Take the guess work out by using DuraLabel printers, supplies and software to quickly create and print the pipe labels you need.
The DuraLabel PRO 300 Pipe Marking Kit* includes: • DuraLabel PRO 300 Printer
• DuraSuite™ Labeling Software (FREE)
• 2" Blue Premium Vinyl Tape • 2" Green Premium Vinyl Tape • 2" Yellow Premium Vinyl Tape • 4" Blue Premium Vinyl Tape • 4" Green Premium Vinyl Tape • 4" Red Premium Vinyl Tape • 4" Yellow Premium Vinyl Tape • 4" Brown Premium Vinyl Tape • 4.3" White Resin Ribbon • 4.3" Black Resin Ribbon
*Contents are subject to change. Kits may be customized.
Equipment and Supplies
Preprinted pipe marker labels aren’t cheap. Facilities relying on these generic labels to mark pipes often pay more in replacement costs due to the marker’s short life span. Because preprinted labels are generic, they may not always visually communicate pipe information accurately. The DuraLabel PRO 300 Printer is an excellent option for most facility pipe marking projects. Quality 300 dpi resolution provides crisp and clear legibility for pipe marking projects.
king Kit* includes: E)
tomized.
DuraLabel PRO 300 Pipe Marking Kit Standard kit shown, custom kits available
Label Creation Steps
(with the DuraLabel PRO 300)Use the DuraSuite™ labeling software included with all DuraLabel PRO printers or design the required pipe labels with a familiar word processor, such as Microsoft® Word or OpenOffi ce.org. The Software CD included with DuraLabel desktop printers comes with pre-made MS Word templates and examples. The DuraLabel PRO 300 printer can print on supplies up to 4" wide.
Using Pre-Existing Software
1. See Table 2 in the “Evaluation of Facility” section to determine the size of label and letters and adjust the page format accordingly.
2. Type out text in capital letters, using a sans-serif font. 3. From the DuraLabel PRO 300 symbols library, insert an arrow to indicate the direction of fl ow of the pipe contents.
4. See Table 1 in the “Evaluation of Facility” section to determine the appropriate color of the labeling tape and ribbon. Load the DuraLabel PRO 300 printer accordingly.
5. Print the label(s).
Some of the special supplies that are available include: • Cold Storage Vinyl Tape – Adhesive will stick on cold surfaces • High-Tack Tapes – For surfaces that are not smooth
• Low-Halogen – Prevents corrosion to stainless steel • Refl ective Tape – For low-light settings
• Oily Surface Labels – Sticks to oily or greasy surfaces • Marine Label Tapes – Resistant to salt water spray • Ultra-Aggressive – Sticks to highly textured surfaces
• Valve Tags – To identify pipes whose labels would be too small for readability
Easily print pipe labels in automatic or manual mode using DuraSuite. Choose from single or wrap-around label layouts to comply with codes.
Go Mobile: Label anywhere in the facility using the DuraLabel TORO — Our popular standalone model with 9" touch screen and fold-out keyboard.
Using DuraSuite Automatic Pipe Marker Design 1. Open the DuraSuite™ Labeling Software.
2. Select the Pipe Marking module.
3. Select the pipe’s contents from one of the menus or enter appropriate text & select appropriate arrows. 4. Select the pipe’s outside diameter dimension.
5. Load the printer with appropriate supplies determined by Tables 1 & 2 in the “Facility Evaluation” section. 6. Select the number of labels & print the label(s).
LABEL CREATION
5. Print the label(s).
Go Mobile: Label anywhere in the facility using the DuraLabel TORO — Our popular standalone model with 9" touch screen and fold out keyboard
LABEL PLACEMENT
Pipe marker location plays a critical role in the safety and effi ciency of every facility. In many facilities, pipe systems generally have a number of bends, penetrations, valves and possibly distribution headers. Factor these visual obstacles into your fi nal placement decision. Every pipe must have pipe markers that are visible from any location from which the pipe can be seen.
Labels must always be applied to clean and dry surfaces to provide lasting performance. Visually appropriate locations often need to be cleaned of debris to create an acceptable pipe marker surface. At locations where cleaning is not an option, DuraLabel Pipe Grabber™ sleeves may be an appropriate alternative.
Pipe markers should be placed:
• To indicate direction of fl ow by labeling with arrows at one or both ends of the label
• To be visible from the point of normal approach • At any line entry or re-entry point
• Near valves, fl anges, and changes in pipe direction • At both sides of ceiling, wall, or fl oor penetrations • At least once every 50 feet on straight pipe runs
Placement of labels will vary facility to facility and should be applied accordingly to comply with codes.
Special Conditions for placement:
• If pipeline is located above the normal line of vision, the label shall be placed below the horizontal center line of the pipe to maximize visibility
• If pipeline is located below the normal line of vision, the label shall be placed above the horizontal center line of the pipe to maximize visibility
• Use Pipe Grabber™ Sleeves when:
◦ Pipe is very dirty and cannot be cleaned
◦ Labels won’t adhere because the pipe is covered with rust, scale, un-lagged insulation, etc.
Removing Old Labels
Many labels can be removed by scraping them off with a putty knife. However, with strong labels such as labels made using DuraLabel vinyl tapes, this can be a labor intensive process. Heating the label with a heat gun will speed this process.
For some applications a powered wire brush can be used to quickly remove labels. The use of this type of tool must take into consideration the type of surface the label is applied to and whether that surface will be damaged.
DISCLAIMER: This guide is for general purposes only. It is not a substitute for review of applicable standards. © 2011, 2012 Graphic Products, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Regularly inspect pipe labels to ensure correct labeling, readability and for code compliance.
LABEL MAINTENANCE
Labels should be properly maintained to ensure long-life, legibility and readability. Under normal outdoor conditions labels will typically last fi ve to seven years. Environmental conditions can cause either a shorter or longer label life.
Clean dirty, illegible pipe labels and replace if damaged.
Labels should be inspected on a periodic basis and replaced if missing or deteriorated. Accumulation of debris, grease, oil, or other materials should be cleaned off.
Pipe markers are only useful if they are visible. DuraLabel PRO supplies are chemical resistant. Solvents and cleaning agents may be used when necessary to clean off dirt, grime, oil, etc.
If cleaning is not possible and a label is not readable, replace the existing label with a new one.
Outside Pipe Diameter Flammable Fluids Direction of Flo w (L/R) Combustible Fluids Wa ter Com pressed Air
Fire Quenching Fluids
To xic/Corr osiv e Fluids Label Color Label Width Number of Labels
APPENDIX A – EV
ALU
A
TION CHECKLIS
T
Use this checklist t
o k
eep track of the number and type of
labels needed during the e
valuation.
NOTES: • Use T
able 1 in section “Ev
aluation of F
acility” t
o det
ermine the label color b
y the pipe cont
ents.
•
Use T
able 2 in section “Ev
aluation of F
acility” t
o det
ermine the label size b
y the pipe diamet
er
.
•
The direction of the
fl o
w
is either lef
t or right relativ
e t
o where the label will be applied.
•
To
estimat
e the number of labels, divide the t
otal pipe length b
y 50 then increase the number f
or v
alv
es, penetrations, chang
es in direction, etc.
Name of pipe content
APPENDIX B – PIPE MARKING GUIDES
This appendix provides pipe marking guides covering a variety of pipe locations. There are fi ve guides provided in this appendix:
ANSI/ASME A13.1 Pipe Marking
The ANSI/ASME A13.1 Pipe Marking Guide provides the pipe labeling requirements that apply to most facilities. In an industrial, institutional, and commercial building, there will be both hazardous and non-hazardous materials fl owing through many miles of pipes. According to the ANSI/ASME A13.1 standards, pipe markers must list the contents of the pipe, the hazards it poses, and any other important information necessary. This guides shows what information must be on code-compliant labels, what size labels need to be, what color labels must be, and where labels should be applied.
Ammonia Pipe Marking Guide
Ammonia is corrosive to the skin, eyes, lungs, and can be deadly at higher levels of exposure. The Ammonia Pipe Marking Guide provides the International Institute of Ammonia
Refrigeration labeling standards for ammonia piping. The IIAR standard requires that thorough and specifi c labeling be applied to all pipes that contain ammonia-based refrigerants.
NFPA 99/CGA C-9 Medical Pipe Marking Guide
According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), all pipes carrying medical gasses in Health Care Facilities must be labeled. The NFPA 99/CGA C-9 Medical Pipe Marking Guide provides information about the NFPA 99 standards, including what should be on the label and where the label should be placed. At minimum, medical pipe markers must include the contents, direction of fl ow, and pressure. Oxygen, Vacuum, Medical Air, Nitrous Oxide, and Nitrogen are just a few of the gasses the NFPA 99 requires to be labeled.
ISO/DIS-14726 Sea Vessel & Marine Pipe Marking Guide
Ships and other sea vessels use a pipe marking system that is internationally recognized. This guide provides detailed information about the International ISO/DIS-14726 standards commonly known as the Marine Pipe Marking Standards. (ISO/DIS 14726-2: specifi es additional color codes for more detailed identifi cation of substances carried by pipes.)
Commercial Building Pipe Marking Guide
The Commercial Building Pipe Marking Guide provides detailed information about labeling the piping systems within facilities. The ANSI/ASME A13.1 code applies to labeling pipes in commercial buildings. However, in some buildings it is desirable to have more detailed information than is provided by ANSI/ASME pipe markers. For example, there are many types of water used in a commercial building and identifying what type of water is in a pipe is important. The Commercial Building Pipe Marking Guide provides a standard used to label pipes with the additional information.
Water Treatment Pipe Marking Guide
Beyond the standards of ANSI/ASME A13.1 pipe marking standards, various state governments have adopted these recommendations for marking pipes at water treatment facilities. In this guide, we’ve put these recommendations together to help you properly mark several kinds of treatment lines, including sludge lines, gas lines, water lines and other types.
MARKER LOCATION
Pipe markers shall be placed:
• to indicate direction of fl ow by labeling with arrows at one or both ends of the label • to be visible from the point of normal approach
• near valves, fl anges and changes in pipe direction • both sides of ceiling, wall or fl oor penetrations • at any line entry or re-entry point
• on straight pipe runs • every 25 ft to 50 ft
ABOVE: Orientation of labels ABOVE: Label placement in relation
to point of normal approach
NOTE: It is recommended that pipes less than .75" in diameter be labeled with a permanent tag.
ANSI/ASME A13.1 PIPE MARKING GUIDE
The following Pipe Marking Guide, offered by Graphic Products to aid in properly customizing pipe markers, complies with the ANSI/ASME A13.1 - 2007 Standard for the Identifi cation of Pipes.
MATERIAL PROPERTY DEFINITION OF MATERIAL PROPERTY
LETTER COLOR ON
FIELD COLOR EXAMPLE
Flammable Fluids which are a vapor or produce vapors that can ignite and continue to burn in air. Black on Yellow Combustible Fluids that may burn but are not fl ammable. White on Brown
Toxic & Corrosive
Fluids which are corrosive or toxic or will produce
corrosive or toxic substances. Black on Orange
Fire Quenching Water and other substances used in sprinkler fi re fi ghting piping systems. White on Red Other Water Any other water except for water used in sprinkler & fi re fi ghting piping systems. White on Green Compressed Air Any vapor or gas under pressure that does not fi t a category above. White on Blue
Defined by User Defined by user. White on Black
Defined by User Defined by user. Black on White
Defined by User Defined by user. White on Purple
Defined by User Defined by user. White on Gray
DEFINED BY USER DEFINED BY USER DEFINED BY USER DEFINED BY USER BOILER WATER COMPRESSED AIR HYDROGEN NITRIC ACID ACETIC ACID SPRINKLER WATER
COLOR CODE
This guide is for general information purposes only. It is not a substitute for review of applicable standards. © 2011, 2012 Graphic Products, Inc.
All Rights Reserved.
PIPE MARKER SIZE CHART
Letter & Label Dimensions in accordance with pipe diameter
Outside Pipe Diameter Including Covering
Minimum Length of Label Field Color
Minimum Height of Letters .75" - 1.25" 1.5" - 2" 2.5" - 6" 8" - 10" Over 10" (19 - 32 mm) (38 - 51 mm) (64 - 152 mm) (203 - 254 mm) (Over 254 mm) 8" 8" 12" 24" 32" (203 mm) (203 mm) (305 mm) (610 mm) (813 mm) .5" .75" 1.25" 2.5" 3.5" (13 mm) (19 mm) (32 mm) (64 mm) (89 mm)
1.
ABBREVIATIONS
Abbreviations for Ammonia System Components: Black printed on yellow
2.
PHYSICAL STATE
LIQ – Liquid: Black or white printed on orange VAP – Vapor: Black or white printed on blue* LIQ/VAP: Use both if both states exist
4.
PRESSURE LEVEL
HIGH Pressure: +70 psig Black or white printed on red LOW Pressure: =/-70 psig Black or white printed on green
ABBREVIATION SYSTEM
BD Booster Discharge VAP LOW
CD Condenser LIQ HIGH
DC Defrost Condensate LIQ HIGH
ES Economizer Suction VAP LOW
EQ Equalizer VAP HIGH
FG Foul Gas VAP LOW
HG Hot Gas VAP HIGH
HGD Hot Gas Defrost VAP HIGH
HPL High Pressure Liquid LIQ HIGH
HSD High Stage Discharge VAP HIGH
HSS High Stage Suction VAP LOW
HTRL High Temperature Recirculated Liquid LIQ LOW
HTRS High Temperature Recirculated Suction LIQ/VAP HIGH
HTS High Temperature Suction VAP LOW
LD Liquid Drain LIQ LOW
LIC Liquid Injection Cooling LIQ HIGH
LSS Low Stage Suction VAP LOW
LT Liquid Transfer LIQ LOW
LTRL Low Temperature Recirculated Liquid LIQ/VAP LOW
LTRS Low Temperature Recirculated Suction LIQ LOW
LTS Low Temperature Suction VAP LOW
MTRL Medium Temperature Recirculated Liquid LIQ LOW
MTRS Medium Temperature Recirculated Suction LIQ/VAP LOW
MTS Medium Temperature Suction VAP LOW
PL Purge Line VAP HIGH
PO Pump Out — —
PU Purge LIQ HIGH
RV Relief Vent VAP HIGH
TSR Thermosyphon Return LIQ/VAP HIGH
TSS Thermosyphon Supply LIQ HIGH
Abbreviations marked with this symbol are popularly used, but non-IIAR approved.
*DuraLabel Sky Blue Premium Vinyl recommended.
3.
MARKER BODY
“AMMONIA” printed in black on yellow
5.
FLOW DIRECTION
Direction of flow of the system contents is indicated by the arrows. Place arrows at one or both ends of the label.AMMONIA PIPE MARKING GUIDE
The following Pipe Marking Guide, offered by Graphic Products to aid in properly customizing pipe markers, complies with the IIAR (International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration) Standards.
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MARKER LOCATION
(IIAR #114 §5.0)Pipe markers shall be placed:
• before and after a change in piping direction • before and after piping penetrations (e.g. walls) • on extended runs of pipe, with a max
spacing of 40 ft between markers
• minimum of one per each area of refrigeration pipe passage (e.g. one per room)
IIAR #114 §7.0 requires the posting of a reference chart with
pipe marking identification and abbreviation information in an area conspicuous to operating personnel. Make the chart out of a durable material for continued legibility.
PIPE MARKER SIZE CHART
Available on Page #18COMPONENT MARKERS
Label text should identify equipment name (e.g. RECEIVER, ACCUMULATOR, RECIRCULATOR)
H I G H
RECEIVER
• 2.5" Tall Black Text on Yellow Background
• 3.5" minimum Label height with 2.5" margins at each end • Pressure Level Designation:
3.5" minimum height; “High” (back on red) or “Low” (white on green)
4" 2.5" 2.5"
NFPA 99/CGA C-9 PIPE MARKING GUIDE
NFPA 99 & CGA C-9 Standard Color Marking of Compressed Gas Containers, Pipelines & Valves for Medical. Use ASME/ANSI Pipe Identifi cation Placement & Orientation Standards.
This guide is for general information only. Not intended to be used in place of CGA C-9, NFPA 99 or ASME/ANSI standards. © 2011, 2012 Graphic Products, Inc.
All Rights Reserved.
MARKER LOCATION
Pipe markers shall be placed:
• to indicate direction of fl ow by labeling with arrows at one or both ends of the label • near valves, fl anges and changes in pipe direction
• to be visible from the point of normal approach
• both sides of ceiling, wall, partitions or fl oor penetrations • at least once in or above every room
• on straight pipe runs, at intervals of not more than 20 ft • at least once in every story height traversed by risers
NOTE: It is recommended that pipes less than .75" in diameter, be labeled with a permanent tag
MATERIAL PROPERTY LETTER COLOR ON FIELD COLOR EXAMPLE
Single Gases –
Oxygen USP† White on Green OXYGEN 50-55 PSI
Carbon Dioxide† White on Gray CARBON DIOXIDE
Nitrous Oxide† White on Blue NITROUS OXIDE
Cyclopropane‡ Black on Orange CYCLOPROPANE
Helium USP† White on Brown HELIUM 50-55 PSI
Nitrogen NF† White on Black NITROGEN 160-200 PSI
Medical Air USP† Black on Yellow MEDICAL AIR
Instrument Air† White on Red INSTRUMENT AIR
Waste Anaesthetic Gas Disposal (WAGD)† White on Violet WASTE ANAESTHETIC
Laboratory Air† Black on
White/Yellow Checkerboard LABORATORY AIR
Laboratory Vacuum† Black on White/Black
Checkerboard2 LABORATORY VACUUM
Medical-Surgical Vacuum† Black on White MEDICAL VACUUM
Gas Mixtures of Oxygen USP and Nitrogen NF –
19.5% to 23.5% Oxygen‡ Black on Yellow 20% OXYGEN
80% NITROGEN
All other Oxygen Concentrates1‡ Black AND Green 40% OXYGEN
60% NITROGEN Other Gas Mixtures –
Oxygen USP and Nitrous Oxide USP: 1‡
52.5% Oxygen USP, 47.5% Nitrous Oxide USP - Defi ned By User -Not Assigned 47.5% NITROUS OXIDE52.5% OXYGEN
Oxygen USP and Carbon Dioxide USP: 1‡
≥ 93% Oxygen USP, remainder Carbon Dioxide USP Gray on Green 7% CARBON DIOXIDE93% OXYGEN
Oxygen USP and Helium USP: 1‡
≥ 20% Oxygen USP, remainder Helium USP Green on Brown 20% OXYGEN 80% HELIUM
1 Use the background colors of the Single Gases. For Other Gas Mixture Pipe Labels, use the major gas for label color and use the minor gas color for text color. 2 Use a white box with a black outline behind the text. †Complies to NFPA 99 color marking standards. ‡Complies to CGA C-9 color marking standards.
ABOVE: Orientation of labels ABOVE: Label placement in relation
to point of normal approach
PIPE MARKER SIZE CHART
Letter & Label Dimensions in accordance with pipe diameter
Outside Pipe Diameter Including Covering
Minimum Length of Label Field Color
Minimum Height of Letters .75" - 1.25" 1.5" - 2" 2.5" - 6" 8" - 10" Over 10" (19 - 32 mm) (38 - 51 mm) (64 - 152 mm) (203 - 254 mm) (Over 254 mm) 8" 8" 12" 24" 32" (203 mm) (203 mm) (305 mm) (610 mm) (813 mm) .5" .75" 1.25" 2.5" 3.5" (13 mm) (19 mm) (32 mm) (64 mm) (89 mm)
Additional Color (blue) Main Color
(yellow)
Steam (silver) Steam for Heating Purposes
Exhaust Steam
Supply Steam Fresh Water (blue)Sanitary Fresh Water Potable Water
Distillate
Gas-Turbine Wash Water Feed Water
Cooling Fresh Water Chilled Water Condensate
Non-Flammable Gases (grey) Oxygen
Inert Gas Nitrogen Refrigerant
Compressed Air LP (low pressure)
Compressed Air HP (high pressure)
Control Air/Regulating Air Breathing Air a
Breathing Gas a
a This marking is used in submarines for distribution
systems of breathing air from cylinders
Oils other than Fuels (orange) Used Oil (Not Contaminated)
Thermal Fluid
Lubrication Oil for Gas Turbines Hydraulic Fluid
Lubrication Oil for Steam Turbines Lubrication Oil for Gears Lubrication Oil for Internal Combustion Engines
Sea Water (green)
Decontamination Water Sanitary Sea Water Ballast Water Cooling Sea Water
For ships mixed with navigation (sea-river ships) all outside waters
Flammable Gases (yellow) Hydrogen
Acetylene Liquid Gas
Air in Ventilation Systems (white) Discharge Air
Cold Mechanical Supply Air Natural Exhaust
Atmospheric Air Mechanical Exhaust Air Decontaminated Supply Air Mechanical Recirculated Air Warm Mechanical Supply Air Smoke Clearance
Conditioned Supply Air Natural Supply Air
Fire Fighting/Fire Protection (red)
Fire-Fighting Water Fire-Fighting Gas Sprinkler Water Spray Water Fire-Fighting Powder Fire-Fighting Foam Fuel (brown)
Heavy Fuel (HFO) Aviation Fuel Biological Fuel Gas-Turbine Fuel Diesel Fuel (MDO)
Air & Sounding Pipes (maroon)
Waste Media Fresh Water Fuel Sea Water
Non-Flammable Gases Oil other than fuels Steam
Fire Fighting Acids, Alkalis Ventilation System Flammable Gases
Waste Media (black)
Black Water Waste Oil/Used Oil Bilge Water Exhaust Grey Water
Sewage, contaminated
Main Colors:for group of similar substance
• applied as an adhesive tape or sign
• painted on to the pipeline in transverse stripes
• painted on the pipeline on the total length
• width is wider than the additional color marking
Additional Colors: for specifi c substance
• should be surrounded by the main color
• width needs to be less than the main color marking width Additional color markings may be added adjacent to a main color marking on a pipe, when necessary, to distinguish between pipes marked with the same main color listed, but carrying different types of medium.
Example: a pipe carrying diesel fuel oil and a pipe carrying heavy fuel oil.
MARKING OF PIPES
• pipes with more than 200 mm outer diameter, label makes up about half the circumference of the pipe
• pipes with 200 mm outer diameter or less, label makes up the entire circumference of the pipe
• label bundled pipes individually • arrows pointing in direction of fl ow
• pipes with fl ow in opposite directions at different times may be marked with arrows pointing in opposite directions • additional text to signify unambiguously the content and/or
function of the pipe
• color stripes need to be perpendicular to the axis of the pipe
ISO/DIS 14726 SEA VESSEL & MARINE PIPE MARKING GUIDE
Identifi cation of Colors for the Content of the Piping Systems according to ISO/DIS 14726.
Acids, Alkalis (violet)
MARKER LOCATION
Pipe markers shall be placed:
• at each penetration point in bulkheads, walls & decks
• every 3-5 meters of pipe length unless more frequent making is needed due to pipe bends or proximity to other pipe sources. • around the entire circumference of the pipe for 200 mm
diameter pipes (adhered at their ends by overtaping) • once in each room
• close to each valve
This guide is for general information purposes only. It is not a substitute for review of applicable standards. © 2011 Graphic Products, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
ABBR. SERVICE TYPE PIPE LABEL VALVE TAG BAND COLOR BACKGROUND AND LETTERING COLORS
CHWR Chilled Water Return CHWR (BLDG.)-CHV-##
BLUE GREEN BACKGROUND, WHITE LETTERING
CHWS Chilled Water Supply CHWS (BLDG.)-CHV-##
CWR Condenser Water Return CWR (BLDG.)-CWV-##
GREEN GREEN BACKGROUND, WHITE LETTERING
CWS Condenser Water Supply CWS (BLDG.)-CWV-##
CWGLR Chilled Water Glycol Return CWGLR (BLDG.)-CGLV-##
GOLD GREEN BACKGROUND, WHITE LETTERING
CWGLS Chilled Water Glycol Supply CWGLS (BLDG.)-CGLV-## HWGLR Hot Water Glycol Return HWGLR (BLDG.)-HGLV-## HWGLS Hot Water Glycol Supply HWGLS (BLDG.)-HGLV-##
CTYW City Water CITY WATER (BLDG.)-CTWV-##
LIGHT BLUE GREEN BACKGROUND, WHITE LETTERING
DCWR Domestic Cold Water Return DCWR (BLDG.)-DCV-##
DCWS Domestic Cold Water Supply DCWS (BLDG.)-DCV-##
DHWR Domestic Hot Water Return DHWR (BLDG.)-DHV-##
DHWS Domestic Hot Water Supply DHWS (BLDG.)-DHV-##
DRAIN Drains* DRAIN (BLDG.)-DRAIN-## BROWN REFER TO ANSI/ASME STANDARDS
DTR Dual Temp Return DTR (BLDG.)-DTV-##
BLACK GREEN BACKGROUND, WHITE LETTERING
DTS Dual Temp Supply DTS (BLDG.)-DTV-##
FO Fuel Oil FO (BLDG.)-FOV-## WHITE YELLOW BACKGROUND, BLACK LETTERING
HPR Heat Pump Return HPR (BLDG.)-HPV-##
TEAL GREEN BACKGROUND, WHITE LETTERING
HPS Heat Pump Supply HPS (BLDG.)-HPV-##
LTHWR Low-Temp Hot Water Return LTHWR (BLDG.)-HWV-##
YELLOW GREEN BACKGROUND, WHITE LETTERING
LTHWS Low-Temp Hot Water Supply LTHWS (BLDG.)-HWV-## MTHWR Medium-Temp Hot Water Return MTHWR (BLDG.)-MTV-##
ORANGE GREEN BACKGROUND, WHITE LETTERING
MTHWS Medium-Temp Hot Water Supply MTHWS (BLDG.)-MTV-## HTHWR High-Temp Hot Water Return HTHWR (BLDG.)-HTV-##
RED GREEN BACKGROUND, WHITE LETTERING
HTHWS High-Temp Hot Water Supply HTHWS (BLDG.)-HTV-##
STM Steam STEAM (BLDG.)-STV-##
PINK YELLOW BACKGROUND, BLACK LETTERING
COND Condensate COND (BLDG.)-CNDV-##
NG Natural Gas GAS (BLDG.)-GASV-## GRAY YELLOW BACKGROUND, BLACK LETTERING
CA Compressed Air COMP AIR (BLDG.)-CAV-##
PURPLE BLUE BACKGROUND, WHITE LETTERING
VAC Vacuum VACUUM (BLDG.)-VACV-##
NOTE: Valve Tags need to comply with ANSI standards. Pipe Labels should be near valve to identify pipe content.
*There are no standards for Drains. Follow ANSI Standards for background and letter colors; abbreviations may vary by facility.
MARKER LOCATION
Pipe markers shall be placed:
• to indicate direction of fl ow by labeling with arrows at one or both ends of the label • to be visible from the point of normal approach
• near valves, fl anges & changes in pipe direction • both sides of ceiling, wall or fl oor penetrations • at any line entry or re-entry point
• on straight pipe runs in intervals suffi cient for identifi cation • every 25 ft to 50 ft is typical*
• Ammonia Only: minimum of 1 per area through which the refrigeration piping passes
*Every 40 feet for Ammonia pipe marking
RIGHT: Orientation of labels RIGHT: Label placement in relation to point of normal approach NOTE: It is recommended that pipes less than .75" in diameter, be labeled with a permanent tag
COMMERCIAL BUILDING PIPE MARKING GUIDE
The following Pipe Marking Guide, offered by Graphic Products to aid in properly customizing pipe markers, complies with the ANSI/ ASME A13.1 - 2007 Standard for the Identifi cation of Pipes. A copy of ANSI/ASME A13.1-2007 Standards is needed.
The Commercial Building Pipe Marking Guide provides a suggested standard used to label pipes with additional information. This guide is for general information purposes only. It is not a substitute for review of applicable standards. © 2011, 2012 Graphic Products, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
PIPE MARKER SIZE CHART
Letter & Label Dimensions in accordance with pipe diameter
Outside Pipe Diameter Including Covering
Minimum Length of Label Field Color
Minimum Height of Letters .75" - 1.25" 1.5" - 2" 2.5" - 6" 8" - 10" Over 10" (19 - 32 mm) (38 - 51 mm) (64 - 152 mm) (203 - 254 mm) (Over 254 mm) 8" 8" 12" 24" 32" (203 mm) (203 mm) (305 mm) (610 mm) (813 mm) .5" .75" 1.25" 2.5" 3.5" (13 mm) (19 mm) (32 mm) (64 mm) (89 mm)
Orientation of labels
WATER TREATMENT PIPE MARKING GUIDE
Suggested standards for wastewater and water treatment facilities.
NOTE: It is recommended that pipes less than .75" in diameter, be labeled with a permanent tag
PIPE MARKER SIZE CHART
*Letter & Label Dimensions in accordance with pipe diameter
Outside Pipe Diameter Including Covering
Minimum Length of Label Field Color
Minimum Height of Letters .75" - 1.25" 1.5" - 2" 2.5" - 6" 8" - 10" Over 10" (19 - 32 mm) (38 - 51 mm) (64 - 152 mm) (203 - 254 mm) (Over 254 mm) 8" 8" 12" 24" 32" (203 mm) (203 mm) (305 mm) (610 mm) (813 mm) .5" .75" 1.25" 2.5" 3.5" (13 mm) (19 mm) (32 mm) (64 mm) (89 mm) LEFT: Orientation of labels LEFT: Label placement in relation to point of normal approach
*Pipe Marker location and size chart are based on ANSI/ ASME standards. This guide is for general information purpos-es only. It is not a substitute for review of applicable standards. © 2012 Graphic Products, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
MARKER LOCATION
Pipe markers shall be placed: • to indicate direction of fl ow by labeling with arrows atone or both ends of the label
• to be visible from the point of normal approach • near valves, fl anges & changes in pipe direction • both sides of ceiling, wall or fl oor penetrations • at any line entry or re-entry point
• on straight pipe runs • every 25 ft to 50 ft
WATER TREATMENT PLANT COLOR CODING
TYPE OF PIPE/USE OF PIPE COLOR OF PIPEWater Lines
Raw Water Olive Green
Settled or clarifi ed water Aqua Finished or potable water Dark Blue Chemical Lines
Alum or primary coagulant Orange
Ammonia White
Carbon Slurry Black
Caustic Yellow w/ green band
Chlorine gas or solution Yellow
Fluoride Light Blue w/ red band
Lime Slurry Light Green
Ozone Yellow w/ orange band
Phosphate compounds Light Green w/ red band Polymers or coagulant aids Orange w/ green band Potassium Permanganate Violet
Soda Ash Light Green w/ orange band
Sulfuric Acid Yellow w/ red band Sulfur Dioxide Light Green w/ yellow band Waste Lines
Backwash Waste Light Brown
Sludge Dark Brown
Sewer (sanitary or other) Dark Gray Other Lines
Compressed Air Dark Green
Gas Red
Other Pipes Light Gray
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT COLOR CODING
TYPE OF PIPE/USE OF PIPE COLOR OF PIPESludge Lines
Raw Sludge Brown w/ black band
Sludge recirculation or suction Brown w/ yellow band Sludge draw off Brown w/ orange band Sludge recirculation discharge Brown
Gas Lines
Sludge Gas Orange (or red)
Natural Gas Orange (or red) w/ black band Water Lines
Nonpotable Water Blue w/ black band
Potable Water Blue
Water for heating digestors Blue w/ 6" red band (150 mm)
or buildings space 30" apart (760 mm)
Other Lines
Chlorine Yellow
Sulfur Dioxide Yellow w/ red band
Sewage (wastewater) Gray
