Standards by Component

Pipe Thread

Tapered and parallel pipe-thread dimensions, tolerances, and gauging.

Primary Standards
ASME B1.20.1ASME B1.20.3ISO 7-1ISO 228-1

ASME B1.20.1

ASME

Pipe Threads, General Purpose (NPT)

Specifies dimensions, tolerances, and gauging methods for general-purpose inch taper pipe threads (NPT) in sizes 1/16″ through 12″ NPS, along with straight pipe thread variants (NPSC, NPSM, NPSL, NPTR). NPT threads achieve mechanical engagement through a 60° taper form at a rate of ¾ in/ft on diameter, but always require a compatible thread sealant to achieve a leak-tight joint — the thread form alone does not seal.

Pipe ThreadNPTNPSCNPSM

ASME B1.20.3

ASME

Dryseal Pipe Threads (NPTF)

Specifies dimensions, tolerances, and gauging for dryseal (NPTF) inch pipe threads in sizes 1/16″ through 2″ NPS, where a pressure-tight joint is achieved by metal-to-metal contact of the thread crests and roots — no thread sealant is required. The tighter crest/root tolerances compared to NPT force interference that closes the helical leak path inherent in the standard NPT form.

Pipe ThreadNPTFNPSFNPSI

ISO 7-1

ISO

Pipe Threads Where Pressure-Tight Joints Are Made on the Threads (R/Rc/Rp)

Specifies dimensions, tolerances, and gauging for the BSPT (British Standard Pipe Taper) family of pipe threads — taper external (R), taper internal (Rc), and parallel internal (Rp) — where the pressure-tight joint is achieved on the thread flanks using a 55° Whitworth form and a 1:16 taper on diameter. Sizes range from R 1/16 through R 6. A thread sealant is normally required. This is the dominant pipe thread standard in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and on internationally sourced equipment.

Pipe ThreadR Thread (External Taper)Rc Thread (Internal Taper)Rp Thread (Internal Parallel)

ISO 228-1

ISO

Pipe Threads Where Pressure-Tight Joints Are Not Made on the Threads (G / BSPP)

Specifies dimensions, tolerances, and tolerance classes for parallel (straight) pipe threads designated "G" — the BSPP (British Standard Pipe Parallel) family — in sizes G 1/16 through G 6. The threads provide mechanical retention only; the pressure-tight seal is always achieved by a separate sealing element (O-ring, bonded washer, or machined seating face). This is the dominant parallel pipe thread standard in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and on hydraulic and pneumatic equipment worldwide.

Pipe ThreadG Thread (External, Class A)G Thread (External, Class B)G Thread (Internal)
Disclaimer: Disclaimer: This page provides a simplified engineering reference only. It is not a replacement for the official standard. For design, inspection, procurement, and construction, always refer to the latest official standard and the applicable project specification.