What is the standard pipe size of a gage cock connection?

The standard pipe size for a gauge cock connection is typically 1/2 inch. This designation is in line with common industry practices, where gauge cocks, which are used to isolate pressure and temperature gauges from the system being measured, are often designed to fit snugly into the piping system without taking up unnecessary space or requiring excessive material.

This standardized size ensures compatibility with most gauge fittings and allows for effective isolation when needed. Using a 1/2 inch connection strikes a balance between minimizing the flow restriction while ensuring appropriate sizing for the instruments attached.

Interestingly, larger sizes, such as 3/4 inch, 1 inch, or 1 1/2 inch, would generally be excessive for the purpose of connecting a gauge cock. These sizes could create unnecessary bulk in the piping system and may not provide any additional benefit for typical gauge installations. Thus, having established standards helps to maintain consistency and efficiency in boiler systems.