Can Large Diameter Piping Improve Water Flow?

It’s a common misconception that a bigger pipe will solve all of the problems. While this is true to some extent, large diameter piping isn’t the only thing that needs to be considered. It’s also important to consider details such as setup, water pressure, and other similar factors.

In most cases, larger pipes will improve water flow, but there is more to know about the subject. Take a look at these details.

Correct Water Pressure

The tricky part of the topic is making sure you have the correct water pressure. If you use larger pipes but there isn’t pressure to support it, then water flow will not be increased.

That being said, if you’re looking at drainage systems or something of that nature, the pressure is a moot point. Here, you’re simply looking for the optimal way to push water quickly through the systems, and large diameter piping can help you do just that.

If you’re reviewing a commercial, industrial, or residential plumbing system, this is where the pressure will come into play. Your pressure needs to correlate with the size of your pipes in order to avoid issues.

Static Pressure Vs. Dynamic Pressure

One of the variables that will determine whether large diameter piping truly is advantageous will be the pressure. Water flow and water pressure are not necessarily the same thing.

And there is more than one type of pressure, which brings us to static pressure vs. dynamic pressure.

Static pressure is the continuous flow of water through a piping system. This is the water that is moving all the time. Not all systems will have constant movement, but most plumbing lines do.

Dynamic pressure is when the pressure inside of the piping changes. This creates something different and unusual in terms of flow and pressure. If it’s too much, the pipe could burst.

Water Flow is Not Water Pressure

It’s important to note that water flow and water pressure are not the same thing. They seem similar, but they’re actually two separate ideas. Water pressure is the rate at which water moves through this piping system.

It’s how fast and how hard the water is moving based on the force behind it. You notice water pressure in places like the shower, where you certainly don’t want low pressure.

Water flow, on the other hand, goes back to the static pressure. It is the water flowing through the pipe. Sometimes it’s continual, and sometimes it’s on an as-needed basis.

Large Diameter Piping and Water Flow

The answer to the question? Yes, using large diameter piping could be beneficial to improving water flow. It may not be the right solution for every scenario, though. It’s important to work with a professional team to determine the best solution for your setup.

Large diameter piping is most common for industrial and commercial uses: places like mainframe infrastructures, storm drainage, and other large-scale needs.

If you need help determining the right piping or need repairs to large piping infrastructure, reach out. Advanced Pipe Repair would be happy to discuss your needs and help plan your projects.