About the PVC Pipe Volume Calculator
ASTM D1785 / D2665
The PVC Pipe Volume Calculator calculates the exact liquid holding capacity, priming volume, and water weight for Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 Polyvinyl Chloride piping.
Because Schedule 80 PVC has a significantly thicker wall than Schedule 40 (to withstand higher working pressures), its internal diameter is smaller, which reduces its holding capacity per foot by 10% to 25%.
Designing drainage and sewer systems? Use our drain pipe slope calculator or size fixture units with the DFU calculator.
ASTM D1785 PVC Dimensions & Capacity Specs
Schedule 40 & 80 Specs
Schedule 80 PVC features a thicker wall for higher pressure ratings, resulting in smaller internal diameter and lower fluid capacity per foot than Schedule 40.
| Nominal Size | OD | Sch 40 ID | Sch 40 gal/ft | Sch 80 ID | Sch 80 gal/ft |
| 1/2" | 0.840" | 0.622" | 0.0158 gal | 0.546" | 0.0122 gal |
| 3/4" | 1.050" | 0.824" | 0.0277 gal | 0.742" | 0.0225 gal |
| 1" | 1.315" | 1.049" | 0.0449 gal | 0.957" | 0.0374 gal |
| 1-1/2" | 1.900" | 1.610" | 0.1058 gal | 1.500" | 0.0918 gal |
| 2" | 2.375" | 2.067" | 0.1743 gal | 1.939" | 0.1534 gal |
| 3" | 3.500" | 3.068" | 0.3840 gal | 2.900" | 0.3431 gal |
| 4" | 4.500" | 4.026" | 0.6613 gal | 3.826" | 0.5972 gal |
Dedicated Calculators by PVC Size
Real-World Calculation Example
Scenario: Sizing a 40-Foot 2-Inch Schedule 40 Pool Suction Line
Calculating pump priming volume and fluid weight for 40 feet of 2-inch Schedule 40 PVC pipe (actual ID = 2.067 inches).
Run Length
480 in (40 ft)
Priming Volume
6.97 US Gal
Total Water Weight
58.15 lbs
• Volume: V = π × (1.0335)² × 480 = 1,610.7 in³
• Gallons: 1,610.7 / 231 = 6.973 US Gallons (26.39 Litres)
• Filled Water Weight: 6.973 gal × 8.34 lbs/gal = 58.15 lbs
