Pipe and Valve Interactive PDF Product Guide
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ANSI Pipe Labeling: Must-Do’s for Pipe Labeling Standards
Color code for quick recognition
Assign specific colors to different pipe contents, such as hazardous materials, fire protection systems or potable water. Consistent color coding simplifies identification and reduces the risk of accidents. Here’s the color-coding system recommended under ASME/ANSI A13.1
Fluid Service
Color Scheme
Fire Quenching Fluids
White on Red
Toxic & Corrosive Fluids
Black on Orange
Flammable & Oxidizing Fluids
Black on Yellow
Combustible Fluids
White on Brown
Potable, Colling, Boiler Feed, & Other Water
White on Green
Compressed Air
White on Blue
Defined by User
White on Purple
Defined by User
Black on White
Defined by User
White on Grey
Defined by User
White on Black
Match length and letter height to pipe diameter
Ensure that your pipe markers are appropriately sized for optimal visibility. Follow these guidelines by pipe size.
Fits Pipe Outer Diameter
0.7" - 1.3" (18 - 33 mm)
1.4" - 2.4" (34 - 61 mm)
2.5" - 6.7" (62 - 170 mm)
6.8" - 10" (171 - 254mm)
Over 10" (Over 254 mm)
Length of Color Field
8 in (203 mm)
8" (203 mm)
12" (305 mm)
24" (610 mm)
32" (813 mm)
Letter Height
0.5" (13 mm)
0.7" (19 mm)
1.3" (32 mm)
2.5" (64 mm)
3.5" (89 mm)
Note: For pipes less than 0.7" diameter, a permanently legible tag is recommended
Place markers in key, high-visibility areas
Position pipe labels on pipes to achieve the best visibility. Install pipe labels below or above the horizontal centerline of the pipe when pipes are located above or below the normal line of vision, respectively. Consider placing pipe markers both near the ceiling and near the floor of your facility. In addition, mark pipes:
Adjacent to all valves and flanges
At both sides of floor or wall penetrations
Adjacent to changes in directions
At least every 50 feet on straight runs
Mark pipes adjacent to all valves and flanges.
Mark pipes at both sides of floor.
Mark pipes adjacent to change in direction.
Mark pipes every 25 to 50 foot intervals on straight runs