What does CTS stand for pipe?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

CTS stands for Copper Tube Sizing. It is a sizing system specifically used for copper pipes. Unlike other types of pipes, such as PVC or CPVC, which commonly use NPS (Nominal Pipe Size) dimensions, CTS has its own unique measurement system.

The main difference between CTS and NPS is the diameter of the pipes. In CTS, the diameter is smaller compared to NPS. This means that a CTS pipe with a certain size will have a smaller diameter than a pipe of the same size in NPS.

The CTS system is primarily used for copper pipes because copper has specific characteristics and requirements that need to be accounted for when designing and installing plumbing systems. Copper is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, durability, and high thermal conductivity, making it a popular choice for various applications, including plumbing and heating.

When working with CTS pipes, it is important to understand the specific sizing system to ensure proper installation and compatibility with fittings and other components. CTS pipes are commonly used in residential and commercial plumbing systems, as well as in some industrial applications.

To give you a better understanding, let’s consider an example. Say you have a CTS pipe and an NPS pipe, both labeled as 1 inch. The CTS pipe will have a smaller diameter compared to the NPS pipe. This is because the CTS measurement takes into account the outer diameter of the pipe, while NPS measures the inner diameter. It is essential to be aware of these differences to avoid any confusion or mismatch during the installation process.

CTS stands for Copper Tube Sizing, which is a specific sizing system used for copper pipes. It is different from other pipe sizing systems, such as NPS, and is designed to accommodate the unique properties of copper pipes. Understanding the CTS system is crucial for proper installation and compatibility with fittings and other components in plumbing systems.