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Pipe Marking Guide

ANSI A13.1 / ASME A13.1-2007 Standards
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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:
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