What does the letter 'K', 'L', or 'M' indicate in piping?

The letters 'K', 'L', or 'M' indicate wall thickness in the context of piping. In the piping industry, these designations help to specify the thickness of the pipe walls, which is critical for understanding the pipe's strength and capacity to withstand various pressures during operation.

For example, a pipe labeled with a 'K' would typically have the thickest wall, while those labeled 'L' and 'M' would have progressively thinner walls. The wall thickness plays a fundamental role in determining the durability and application suitability of the piping, affecting factors such as load-bearing ability and resistance to corrosion or damage. Understanding these designations is essential for professionals working with piping systems to ensure that the appropriate materials and specifications are chosen for a given application.