If two 4 inch 45-degree groove fittings are used for an offset, how far is the approximate run when the travel is 48 inches overall and the takeout is 3 feet? Calculate to the nearest 1/4 inch.

If two 4 inch 45-degree groove fittings are used for an offset, how far is the approximate run when the travel is 48 inches overall and the takeout is 3 feet? Calculate to the nearest 1/4 inch.

• A. 34 inches
• B. 32 inches
• C. 36 inches
• D. 38 inches

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is estimating the run for an offset made with two 45-degree bends. When you offset with these bends, part of the total travel is taken up by the diagonal portions of the pipe, and the bends themselves add a small amount of centerline length. A simple practical rule of thumb used in sprinkler work is: approximate the run by taking the total travel, subtracting about half of the takeout (the offset distance) and then adding roughly one pipe diameter to account for the bend lengths. Applying that here: - Travel is 48 inches. - Takeout is 3 feet (36 inches); half of that is 18 inches. - Pipe diameter is 4 inches, so add about 4 inches for the bends. Run ≈ 48 − 18 + 4 = 34 inches. Nearest 1/4 inch is 34.0 inches, so that matches the correct choice. This approach reflects why 34 inches is the best estimate: it accounts for the diagonal portions reducing the straight run and the fittings adding a bit of centerline length.

The idea being tested is estimating the run for an offset made with two 45-degree bends. When you offset with these bends, part of the total travel is taken up by the diagonal portions of the pipe, and the bends themselves add a small amount of centerline length. A simple practical rule of thumb used in sprinkler work is: approximate the run by taking the total travel, subtracting about half of the takeout (the offset distance) and then adding roughly one pipe diameter to account for the bend lengths.

Applying that here:

• Travel is 48 inches.

• Takeout is 3 feet (36 inches); half of that is 18 inches.

• Pipe diameter is 4 inches, so add about 4 inches for the bends.

Run ≈ 48 − 18 + 4 = 34 inches.

Nearest 1/4 inch is 34.0 inches, so that matches the correct choice.

This approach reflects why 34 inches is the best estimate: it accounts for the diagonal portions reducing the straight run and the fittings adding a bit of centerline length.