ANSI A13.1 / ASME A13.1-2007 Standards
Guide to the ANSI A13.1 / ASME A13.1-2007 Standards for the Identification of Pipes
The 2007 edition of joint ANSI / ASME Standard A13.1 introduced a new color system for labeling pipe contents, based on six standard color combinations plus four user-defined colors. Previous versions used a four-color scheme. In addition, the 2007 edition was the first to specify the exact colors to be used, requiring pipe markers to meet the safety-color standards of ANSI Z535.1.
While the 2007 standards are required for new installations, existing facilities should maintain consistency with the existing system to avoid confusion. PipeMarkers.com furnishes pipe-labeling supplies that are compliant with both the new and old versions of ANSI / ASME standards.
Pipe Contents |
Background Color |
Text Color |
Example |
| Fire-quenching fluids | Red | White | Halon |
| Toxic and corrosive fluids | Orange | Black | HCl |
| Flammable fluids | Yellow | Black | Gas |
| Combustible fluids | Brown | White | Vapor |
| Potable, cooling, boiler feed, and other water | Green | White | Waste Water |
| Compressed air | Blue | White | Air 100 psi |
| User-defined | Purple | White | Text |
| User-defined | White | Black | Text |
| User-defined | Grey | White | Text |
| User-defined | Black | White | Text |
Outside Pipe Diameter Including Covering |
Minimum Length of Label Field Color |
Minimum Height of Letters |
|||
| Inches | mm | Inches | mm | Inches | mm |
| 3/4 to 1 1/4 1 1/2 to 2 2 1/2 to 6 8 to 10 over 10 |
19 to 32 38 to 51 64 to 152 203 to 254 over 254 |
8 8 12 24 32 |
203 203 305 610 813 |
1/2 3/4 1 1/4 2 1/2 3 1/2 |
13 19 32 64 89 |
Place markers:
- So as to be clearly visible from normal point of approach
- Near valves, flanges and changes in pipe direction.
- At both sides of ceiling, wall or floor penetrations.
- At any line entry point.
- At frequent intervals on straight pipe runs. (Every 25–50' is typical.)
This Pipe Marking Guide is for general information purposes only. It is not a substitute for review of applicable standards. Provided by Graphic Products, the leading supplier of industrial labeling equipment and supplies (1-888-326-9244)
Please feel free to print this pipe marking guide. Or request a printed, laminated copy. It's free and we'll be happy to send you a copy of this pipe marking guide.
Additional information related to piping systems:
Carbon Steel Pipe Data ||
Pipe Markers Home








