If you’re thinking about installing a gas line, it is essential to know how to do so safely. Pipes can corrode, leak and become an ignition risk if not kept up with properly.
Your pipe material plays a significant role in its durability. Common materials used for pipes include black iron, copper tubing and corrugated stainless steel tubing.
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Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST)
Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) is a commonly-used material in new construction projects as an alternative to black iron pipe. It’s frequently utilized as an alternative for traditional solid pipe when installing gas piping throughout buildings.
CSST (Conductive Steel Tubes) are constructed with an inner layer of stainless steel and an outer yellow or black plastic jacket. The outer jacket serves to shield the inner tube from direct lightning strikes while dissipating energy during indirect strikes.
If you are installing a new building or replacing old pipe in your home, there are a few things to consider about installing CSST. First and foremost, determine what kind of CSST you will be installing.
CSST comes in two primary varieties: yellow-jacketed (or “standard”) type and black-jacketed (or “heavy duty”). The yellow-jacketed type is more prevalent and features a nonconductive yellow plastic coating on its exterior.
The black-jacketed type is more modern, featuring an electrically conductive jacket on the outer surface of the tubing that dissipates energy from indirect lightning strikes. No matter which CSST you install, be sure to ground it to your building’s electrical system before attaching it.
When connecting the CSST to your home’s electric system, make sure to use heavy gauge 6-AWG copper wire. This will guarantee that the electric system can support the current flowing through your CSST gas line back to its panel.
Finally, use an underwriters laboratories-listed bonding clamp for your CSST gas line connection. These are usually available at most hardware stores for only a few dollars and are essential to safeguarding both your home and family.
New installations of yellow CSST must be bonded to the building’s electrical service panel’s ground bus at their entrance into a building in order to reduce the risk of fire caused by CSST failure. Most local codes require this, so contact a licensed electrician to confirm that your CSST has been properly bonded and grounded according to its manufacturer’s instructions.
Black Iron Pipe
When installing gas pipe, it is essential to adhere to all local codes. Furthermore, selecting the correct type of pipe for your requirements can cause damage or injury if not done correctly.
Black iron pipe is a popular option for natural gas pipe due to its durability, ability to withstand high pressure, and corrosion-resistance. This makes it ideal for transporting gas over long distances or use in areas with extreme temperature changes.
It comes in a range of sizes and is easy to work with. Additionally, it’s more cost-effective than galvanized steel pipe and can be utilized in many different locations.
Once black iron pipe has been cut to length, it must then be joined using fittings and connectors. It is essential to apply Teflon tape or pipe joint compound on the threads of the pipe in order to prevent leaks. Wrap the tape clockwise around the threads of the pipe before inserting it into a fitting; make sure you wrap at least four times and no more than six or seven times.
Once the pipe is installed, it should be checked for leaks before adding supports and hangers. Any bubbles indicate a gas leak and require further tightening of the connection.
When installing gas pipe in a residential setting, it’s best to avoid galvanized metal pipes as they contain zinc on the inside and can clog natural gas lines due to chemical reaction between two metals.
Underground connections for natural gas can be hazardous, as oxygen and moisture can corrode the galvanized pipe, leading to rust and potential gas leaks. Therefore, it is highly recommended that only use black iron pipe when piping for natural gas.
Black iron pipe is a popular choice for residential and commercial installations due to its cost-effectiveness compared to galvanized pipe of the same diameter. Furthermore, black iron pipe is less likely to clog gas lines, making installation simpler. Furthermore, black iron pipe boasts greater reliability than its galvanized counterpart as it can withstand higher pressure without flaking or cracking under high stress.
Aluminum-Plastic Composite Pipe (APCP)
Aluminum-Plastic Composite Pipe (APCP) is a relatively new gas pipe that’s becoming increasingly popular within the natural gas industry. Made up of two materials – aluminum and plastic – APCP has both strength and flexibility, making it ideal for pipelines that must travel frequently, such as those crossing rivers or other bodies of water.
Installing APCP requires knowledge of how to do so safely and efficiently. Doing so will help you avoid leakage, potential issues with air quality, fires, or explosions.
First, you will need to identify the location of your gas main line. This can be done by having a plumber come out to your home and perform a gas inspection. After that, you can make necessary modifications so that the line remains secure and functioning optimally.
Another essential step is determining the diameter of pipe you require. This will enable you to purchase the appropriate size fittings for your installation.
For maximum security, use a combination of brass fittings and plastic fittings to securely fasten the pipe in its system. Clamps can also be used to hold the pipe during installation.
It is essential to follow the instructions on the label when installing pipe, so there will be no movement during installation.
APCP pipes are a much greener and cost-effective alternative than copper pipes, as well as less likely to rust or corrode in outdoor applications. As such, APCP makes for an excellent choice when looking for outdoor solutions.
Pipe cutters make cutting this material a breeze, and it can be installed in numerous ways to transport both liquids and gases – making it suitable for many different applications.
APCP is an ideal pipe for gas and oil transportation, boasting a life expectancy of up to 50 years. It can also be utilized in other applications such as heating and cooling systems.
Fittings
If you’re installing gas pipe in your home, it is essential to get it done correctly the first time. Doing so will guarantee a leak-free system that lasts for years to come.
Before you begin, consult a professional to guarantee your installation is both safe and legal. They can assist in determining the size of your piping run and any fittings necessary for the job.
As either a homeowner or business owner, it’s essential to know what types of fittings are available for your gas pipe installation requirements. Doing this will enable you to select the ideal solution for your project.
To source your fittings, you’ll need to contact a local plumber or HVAC contractor. They can provide advice and recommendations based on their expertise.
When working with pipes, it’s wise to have a tape measure and level on hand. These tools will guarantee your piping is installed perfectly level and help avoid leaks or cracks in your system.
Another essential step when installing fittings is using Teflon tape or pipe thread sealant on the pipe threads. Doing this prevents leaks and creates a hazardous situation in your home or business.
When using Teflon tape to secure pipe threads, wrap it around several times for a tight seal. Finally, insert the fitting into your piping and tighten securely.
Flared Fittings are another common fitting used in gas line installations. These fittings feature an inverted flare at one end that presses against another, similar to threaded fittings but without creating a seal; rather, pressure at the tip helps make the connection strong and leak-proof.
Copper is a commonly used material for gas piping due to its heat resistance and lack of rusting. Furthermore, copper’s high malleability makes it suitable for many applications.
In certain areas, copper may not be permitted for gas piping. In these instances, you have the option of choosing another material such as black iron or steel instead.